Things to do before / during my first Interview?

[Alpha Centauri]

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Hey guys, seems like it was only yesterday I remember reading my first interview invite. I am a little late in the application cycle but anyways, I have an interview at BU next Monday.

I know many of you have already finished interviewing or at least been to one (or a couple). Is there anything recommended to prepare with, and any recommendations or "protips" for the interview day? It will also be my first time ever flying and being alone in a new place so that is a bit nerve wracking but super exciting at the same time!

Edit- Also I am definitely aware of BU's notorious reputation for having an extremely laid back and relaxed interview so that is definitely good for the nerves!

 

[rookiedent201]

I would recommend getting to your interview city a day before. Don't get a crappy hotel, stay in a decent place, get to bed early. Figure out transportation to the interview the night before. Know about the school, know why you want to be a dentist, be able to display the characteristics you think a dentist should have through a few life experiences. Be prepared to talk about your experiences in dentistry and have a few questions for your interviewers. During your interview day take notes about the school, be social and ask questions. GL!

 

[Alpha Centauri]

I would recommend getting to your interview city a day before. Don't get a crappy hotel, stay in a decent place, get to bed early. Figure out transportation to the interview the night before. Know about the school, know why you want to be a dentist, be able to display the characteristics you think a dentist should have through a few life experiences. Be prepared to talk about your experiences in dentistry and have a few questions for your interviewers. During your interview day take notes about the school, be social and ask questions. GL!

Thanks! What type of notepad should I have with me on interview day. Also is bringing around a water bottle acceptable?

 

[rookiedent201]

I have a small notepad, I guess whatever fits in your suit. I carry a water bottle all day, I especially need it during the actual interview, people don't seem to mind.

 

[DMDDDSHopeful]

To add to @rookiedent201, go visit the school the day before the actual interview day. You do not want to get caught with bad GPS directions on the actual morning and be stressed out in unfamiliar territory with buildings that may all look alike. If you cannot go there the day before, then get up very early and give yourself wiggle room in time just in case you hit construction, closed roads, etc. Practice the common interview questions in front of a mirror, with a friend or family, and/or video record yourself. You do not want to ramble on and on and you also don't want to make incoherent responses that lead to awkwardness. It won't be a deal breaker if that happens, but try your best to avoid it.

Lastly, relax and enjoy your experience. A positive mindset goes a long way. Everything in your life has led you to this interview so enjoy the day as much as you can.

 

[Alpha Centauri]

To add to @rookiedent201, go visit the school the day before the actual interview day. You do not want to get caught with bad GPS directions on the actual morning and be stressed out in unfamiliar territory with buildings that may all look alike. If you cannot go there the day before, then get up very early and give yourself wiggle room in time just in case you hit construction, closed roads, etc. Practice the common interview questions in front of a mirror, with a friend or family, and/or video record yourself. You do not want to ramble on and on and you also don't want to make incoherent responses that lead to awkwardness. It won't be a deal breaker if that happens, but try your best to avoid it.

Lastly, relax and enjoy your experience. A positive mindset goes a long way. Everything in your life has led you to this interview so enjoy the day as much as you can.

Thanks! Check in for the hotel is at 3PM so after i finish settling in (arrive at 10AM) I'll uber there and hang around for 20 minutes

 

[Incis0r]

Make friends with other interviewees. You're all in it together. After every interview, I've gotten the contact info of 4-5 peers who I'm still in communication with. On Dec. 1, all of us are going to be in constant contact all day!

A side benefit of this is- I now have a social circle and several potential roommates lined up at any school I choose to attend.

 

[Toothout]

Hey guys, seems like it was only yesterday I remember reading my first interview invite. I am a little late in the application cycle but anyways, I have an interview at BU next Monday.

I know many of you have already finished interviewing or at least been to one (or a couple). Is there anything recommended to prepare with, and any recommendations or "protips" for the interview day? It will also be my first time ever flying and being alone in a new place so that is a bit nerve wracking but super exciting at the same time!

Edit- Also I am definitely aware of BU's notorious reputation for having an extremely laid back and relaxed interview so that is definitely good for the nerves!

ENJOY IT!