"Why should we accept you" question

[LoveBeingHuman:)]

I know that I don't know much of the admissions process. However, one of the things that is looked for is humility. However, I think it is nearly impossible to answer this question without acknowledging the presence and/or importance of your own talents and accomplishments (because that is pretty much what you are being asked to do). Therefore, when this is being asked, is it a trick to really see how humble you are or does the interviewer actually just want to know why you think you're a gold star?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[clippers50fan]

There's an art with truthfully talking about yourself, your skills you've developed through anecdotes and stories (saying I have empathy != story that clearly shows empathy or life experience that has fostered empathy), and what makes you unique versus boasting, just saying random words that you think an adcom would like to hear, or being an ass about it. You do indeed want to talk yourself up--you're applying for a seat! But don't pretend you're God's gift to humanity or you now everything there is to know about serving underprivileged people. I always phrased these questions "I have these experiences that have fostered these skills/emotions and I want to continue this at your SOM through these programs." Specific, honest, but not boastful.

 

[LizzyM]

How are you going to make the most of the opportunity? What does this school offer that you'd want to grab with both hands? What is it about the school that you are passionate about? (labs, specific service projects, sim lab, opportunity for a specific research opportunity or rotation or patient population that isn't available everywhere) If you end up having choices, what would be the positive attributes of this school (including the student body, location, facilities, faculty, curriculum, etc) that would influence your decision about where to matriculate?

This is less about what you have done and more about what you will do ... how will you use your opportunity to be a graduate we can be proud of?

 

[piii]

It isn't a trick. Being humble is important, but this is a buyer's market and you need to sell yourself. There is a clear distinction between that and arrogance. If you are timid and meek, you won't fair well in medicine - you often have to fight for your patients. This is your opportunity to share with the school what specific experiences and traits you have that will make you a desired member of their community.

 

[gannicus89]

I think it's more about what you think you bring to the incoming class, why you would be a good addition to their community. You can talk about it without bragging.

 

[bhb19]

I think it depends on the applicant, but I don't think you necessarily have to talk about your talents and accomplishments when you're asked that question. I think an answer that stresses your commitment to representing their institution well and making the world a better place would sound good as well. I haven't been through the interview process, so I can't really claim to be super credible on this, but I would think that talking about volunteerism and research as ways of making the world a better place rather than just bullet points would come off as more humble. You could spin your good grades and MCAT as signs that you are willing and able to do the hard work needed to not only succeed in med school, but also to go out into the field and represent their institution well.

 

[Goro]

Actually, it's a seller's market. More applicants than seats. Edge to med schools.

It isn't a trick. Being humble is important, but this is a buyer's market and you need to sell yourself. There is a clear distinction between that and arrogance. If you are timid and meek, you won't fair well in medicine - you often have to fight for your patients. This is your opportunity to share with the school what specific experiences and traits you have that will make you a desired member of their community.

 

[FutureD.O]

Answer genuinely, speak from your experiences, and succinctly state why you are unique.

I was asked this question and was immediately told after answering that my answer was "amazing". All I did was be myself. I'd advise the same!

 

[njtrimed]

The answer for any of these questions will always boil down to the same thing: be yourself. Know everything about where you're interviewing and why you would be the perfect fit for that program, and sell it.

 

[piii]

Actually, it's a seller's market. More applicants than seats. Edge to med schools.

Meh I suck at phrases, that's what I meant

 

[Cookiess]

I talked about why I thought I was a good fit for the medical school (in terms of my experiences and leadership) and how that skill set translates to ways I see myself contributing to the community at the medical school.

Edit: I would not bring out a laundry list of your accomplishments and experiences. Pick one or two that you've discussed during your interview and succinctly describe ways in which you would use those experiences contribute to the school.

 

[AnatomyGrey12]

Interviewer: "Why should we accept you?"

Interviewee: "because I am a visionary and the GOAT"

Then get up and walk out to a slow clap from the interviewer and wait for that handwritten acceptance letter.

/thread



In all seriousness just be yourself and talk about your strengths and what you feel you can bring to the medical field. Don't be arrogant but don't be self depreciating either.