Wierd interview experience at a Top 10

[thatguy1232]

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For a little background info, I attended an interview at a top 10 med school, one I would definitely consider to be my top choice. I am a URM (african-american), and go to a state school in the south.

I've interviewed at several schools beforehand, so I have some experience interviewing, and I know it's common sense to avoid some topics. But man, so many controversial topics came up that haven't in any of my other interviews. Politics (gun rights, lgbt rights, conservative vs liberal), affirmative action, Ferguson, religion, evolution. Some in both interviews. At the time I thought some of the discussion was very interesting, but looking back, I realized I voiced some strong opinions at the time and I'm starting to regret it. Some topics were brought up on my own (I was asked about the conservative nature of my undergrad and I gave examples) but others were definitely brought up by my interviewers. I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced this and how did it work out for you?

 

[Narmerguy]

I've had it, URM as well, it worked out fine. So long as you weren't foaming at the mouth and showed that you can logically take a position and defend it, it doesn't reflect poorly on you and can even reflect well. What many of the top schools want are people who aren't just bookworms but "leaders", aware of their surroundings and able to perceive the aspects of society where you can make a difference. Healthcare is a big place, lots of problems and lots of room for improvement. Showing you can think outside of the lab room reflects well, but first and foremost you have to show that you can handle your business in academics.

 

[Dr.kennethnoisewater]

I've had it, URM as well, it worked out fine. So long as you weren't foaming at the mouth and showed that you can logically take a position and defend it, it doesn't reflect poorly on you and can even reflect well. What many of the top schools want are people who aren't just bookworms but "leaders", aware of their surroundings and able to perceive the aspects of society where you can make a difference. Healthcare is a big place, lots of problems and lots of room for improvement. Showing you can think outside of the lab room reflects well, but first and foremost you have to show that you can handle your business in academics.

What if your opinion did not match up with your interviewer, like being conservative and they were extremely liberal. It seems like those are hard questions to answer not really knowing if they will like your answer just because they don't agree with you.

 

[thatguy1232]

I've had it, URM as well, it worked out fine. So long as you weren't foaming at the mouth and showed that you can logically take a position and defend it, it doesn't reflect poorly on you and can even reflect well. What many of the top schools want are people who aren't just bookworms but "leaders", aware of their surroundings and able to perceive the aspects of society where you can make a difference. Healthcare is a big place, lots of problems and lots of room for improvement. Showing you can think outside of the lab room reflects well, but first and foremost you have to show that you can handle your business in academics.

That's good to know. I was worried if these topics even being brought up would be a red flag. But I felt I was able to communicate my positions and reasoning. I felt the school itself was liberal (as were my stances) so i felt comfortable about the discussion at the time

 

[Narmerguy]

What if your opinion did not match up with your interviewer, like being conservative and they were extremely liberal. It seems like those are hard questions to answer not really knowing if they will like your answer just because they don't agree with you.

A responsible interviewer knows how to distinguish between someone who disagrees but has their own clearly thought out reasons, and someone who simply has feelings and opinions that are unsupported and poorly thought out. Even still, it's impossible to completely rule out bias, and it's possible some interviewers will unconsciously favor those applicants who express views similar to their own. I think the best advice for this would be: don't steer the conversation in that direction if you can help it, but don't be afraid to be yourself and be honest. If it goes there, be respectful, show that you can be thoughtful, and show how your views connect with your application and the way in which you try to reinforce your values. And always smile, but not like a politician.

 

[deleted357625]

I worked on multiple conservative political campaigns in the south (noted it on my application - it was a big part of who I was that distinguished me apart from others) and I wasn't afraid to share my thoughts during my interview (Purple state/Blue city). I obviously didn't delve into social issues, considering it was unnecessary and never brought up (I would pass if brought up), but I discussed issues and possible solutions on the state & federal level to improve healthcare although it could have been counter to the interviewers beliefs. However, I don't recommend it even though I was accepted at the program. I'm sort of stubborn and don't like to act or sound like a fool spewing nonsense counter to what I believe would be the moral/right thing to do. Be yourself and they want to, hopefully, see that you are being truthful not only to them, but ultimately to yourself.

 

[Dr.kennethnoisewater]

A responsible interviewer knows how to distinguish between someone who disagrees but has their own clearly thought out reasons, and someone who simply has feelings and opinions that are unsupported and poorly thought out. Even still, it's impossible to completely rule out bias, and it's possible some interviewers will unconsciously favor those applicants who express views similar to their own. I think the best advice for this would be: don't steer the conversation in that direction if you can help it, but don't be afraid to be yourself and be honest. If it goes there, be respectful, show that you can be thoughtful, and show how your views connect with your application and the way in which you try to reinforce your values. And always smile, but not like a politician.

Great advice!