Preparing for Interviews

[Jonkst]

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I'm sure this has come up before, but what do you guys do to prepare for interviews? Like what magazines and whatnot do you use to familiarize yourself with issues in medicine, and what do you learn about a school before you go?

 

[zinjanthropus]

some schools have a career center that will allow you to participate in a practice interview

 

[tBw]

1. look at the questions on interview feedback through the SDN web page
http://www.studentdoctor.net/interview/interview_read.asp
to see what kind of interview format and what style of questions are common at the school.

2. re-read your personal essay and 2ndaries (you did keep a copy right?) as these will likely be the subject of at least part of the conversation and you don't want to be asked about something only to go "I did what?..." as you struggle to remember some insiginificant point in your statement the interviewer has focused on.

3. practice interviews, rehearse the typical questions (why a dr, why here, etc - the schools own literature can be useful for tayloring some answers) with others and yourself - if possible with a prof or pre-med advisor.

4. read some current news (ny times, cnn online, whatever) and some bioethics topics
http://eduserv.hscer.washington.edu/bioethics/topics/index.html

5. Then just be confident, be yourself, if they ask a question don't feel you have to know every answer or that it's a race to get the words out. Just relax, express opinions, and take your time. Look into the interviewers eyes, smile and give a firm handshake - on entering and leaving.

good luck

 

[spumoni620]

Wow. Thanks so much tbw 🙂

 

[Jonkst]

Well, that answers that question.

I knew I came here for a reason!

Thanks

 

[Cydney Foote]

Definitely take advantage of the SDN interview database -- it's the best I've seen. It gives you sample questions that will help you prepare as well as a summary of what to expect at the interview.

Then practice, practice, practice. The more times you go through the interview beforehand, the better you'll do on the actual day. Try to tape yourself if possible -- you'll get a better sense of whether you're rushing, saying "uh" a lot, or any other detracting things -- as well as practicing with others.

Good luck!