The other element to admissions...

[oNichole]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I've seen people emphasize their difficulty with the verbal section of the MCAT. I'm sure many people also struggle with the writing section, though it isn't as important as the other sections. I personally get nervous as the thought of the interviews, as well as the personal statement. These four things test how well we understand and express ourselves in written language, as well as our listening and verbal communication skills. I am curious to hear how people improve their communication skills in preparation for an interview. I've heard people suggest reading classical literature, poems, non-fiction, both formal and informal, as a way to improve the way you come across both verbally and in writing. There is also the issue of being up to date on current issues in science, medicine, the world in general, etc should they bring something up in an interview. What are some books, authors, magazines, etc. that you guys recommend to improve these skills?

 

[pelliper]

I've seen people emphasize their difficulty with the verbal section of the MCAT. I'm sure many people also struggle with the writing section, though it isn't as important as the other sections. I personally get nervous as the thought of the interviews, as well as the personal statement. These four things test how well we understand and express ourselves in written language, as well as our listening and verbal communication skills. I am curious to hear how people improve their communication skills in preparation for an interview. I've heard people suggest reading classical literature, poems, non-fiction, both formal and informal, as a way to improve the way you come across both verbally and in writing. There is also the issue of being up to date on current issues in science, medicine, the world in general, etc should they bring something up in an interview. What are some books, authors, magazines, etc. that you guys recommend to improve these skills?

Best way is to go out to cocktail parties and meet people. You can't learn how to cook by reading the cookbook.

 

[GoSpursGo]

There's really no substitute to mock interviews to prep for an interview. The other stuff will make you knowledgeable in an interview setting, but it won't prepare you to come off as well as possible.

 

[limondrop]

🙂 I found that the best way to prepare for interviews was not to do a lot of reading or research but rather to go into the interview with a good attitude. I may not be the only one who experienced this, but during my interview trail, I didn't get asked one question about current events, one question about ethics, or even one question about my favorite book, favorite author, etc. So even though I did DO the readings and research that everyone suggested- I never once used the knowledge I gained from all of that in my interviews.

In fact, because everything that the interviewer asked was about me, I felt that the best way to approach each new school was just to relax. When I felt tense or felt that I "needed" to make a good impression, I didn't come off as well as I would hope. My nervousness and tense attitude would show through. It was better if I went into the interview thinking "Wow- what an amazing school, I don't know if I will ultimately be accepted here but instead of making what I think is the "perfect" first impression, I'm just going to throw it all to the wind and enjoy myself." Now, this isn't to say that you should curse or steal something (heaven forbid.) But I really think going into the school with a less caring attitude helps you act more like yourself and subsequently gives a better impression to your interviewers 😀

I hope this long post made sense 🙁 If not- feel free to PM me 😀

 

[Web MD]

Talk to other people, socialize. You're not going to learn how to put yourself at ease and entertain a complete stranger by reading some book - and for anyone who thinks it's not your job to entertain your interviewer, good luck distinguishing yourself from the other thousand applicants with no personality and 0 social skills