So...tell me about yourself.

[JZZZZZZZs]

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I have an interview on 1/30 and am busy preparing for it right now by slowly working off of a list of common interview questions. However, I'm stuck and not sure how to approach the vague, yet certainly asked question of "So...tell me about yourself." It's not that I don't know what to say. I just don't know what approach to go with. Should it be conversational? earnest/serious? medical related? or light/even quirky? Originally, I was thinking of just listing a bunch of things that I like to do and qualities that I have. But on second thought, it might be cheesy and gimmicky. So, do I give the typical, abridged version of my life history?
Any veteran/star interviewees have advice for me? 😍

 

[dynx]

I drink like a fish smoke like a chimney and i LOVE TO DO IT!

 

[applegirl]

Yes, this is a vague question. I always begin with where I was born (of course I was born in a foreign country and moved here in the fifth grade so I always think this will spark a conversation. A couple of my interviewers were actually in the country where I was born and one was actually in my city.). Continue with a few highlight on your life, what you like to do, if you have any hobbies. Stuff like that. I usually add something about my family. The truth is that before you get your whole story out they will stop and ask you questions so you really do not have to get your whole personal history out in one swoop. You will be fine.

 

[Redbeanmochi]

hi there.

i've been asked that question many times. instead of busting out a monologue or babbling about my childhood, i ask the interviewer, "what would you like to know?" my interviewers have usually responded with something a bit more specific, such as "tell me about your family" or "tell me about your undergrad experience." this helps to direct the conversation a bit and it has worked for me.

 

[Redbeanmochi]

ah---one more thing. if you would like to emphasize something on your amcas app or talk in detail about an experience you've had (that isn't well documented on your amcas), the question provides a good opportunity to weave these things in.

 

[JZZZZZZZs]

Thanks guys/gals for all your responses. It definitely helped me to figure out how I will answer the question. I think I'll just go with the traditional, re-telling of the life history route.
applegirl, I was also born in another country and came here in the 3rd grade. I always forget that it's a somewhat fascinating topic for others to hear about.
dynx, I wonder if the Adcom will appreciate such a response purely for its humor?...On second thought...probably not. I just hope my interviewers won't be too stuffy! 🙄
redbeanmochi, hmmmm....that sounds good! 😀 You came up with some great suggestions. I could rather calmly ask them what they'd like to know about me. There's nothing wrong with that and it totally gives you a starting point to work from.
Thanks everyone for your help again and I wish you the best during this application cycle.

If there's anything you guys need from me, please feel free to ask.

 

[tryingagain]

Just some advice but do not start off with "I was born in.........". That is so trite and uncreative. It puts me to sleep just thinking about it.