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What to Bring to an Interview
Theoretically, you need to bring nothing. The interviewers have everything they need from you already. But there area couple of things that we suggest you bring along to an in person interview.
1. A copy of your complete application. A traditional interview could be open file, with your interviewer or interviewers looking at your application as you chat, or semi-open or closed file. This application isn't for you to hand over to your interviewer. This copy is for you. Review it while you're waiting so that you can refresh your nervous brain and stick to the same takeaways. If you feel you've reviewed this application all you can review it, take a break, and read a book while you wait.
2. A notebook. As noted earlier, you can ask questions during your interview too. Feel free to bring yours prewritten and jot down shorthand versions of your interviewers' answers. Maybe we're old-fashioned, but we find that using a phone or laptop for the same purpose can come off as rude. You're more likely to break eye contact for extended periods when using technology. Stick to the notebook, and look up and nod periodically as you write. (Your notebook can also come in handy during the MMI interview, when you might want to use your thinking time to jot down some thoughts before saying your answer aloud.)
3. The right clothing and accessories. You already know not to wear anything revealing or sloppy. You should bedressing for your audience—these are older adults. A suit is never a bad idea. It's bizarre to put it this way, butwhat would you wear to a funeral? Because that's a respectful outfit. But this tip has less to do with being interview-appropriate than with being activity- and weather-appropriate. If you're touring the campus before or after your interview, wear or bring comfortable shoes. If it's going to rain, bring an umbrella. If you'refrom Florida and you don't have a warm coat, borrow or buy one before your interview in Wisconsin. Whenyou're engrossed in interview prep, these are the kindsof things you'll forget.
4. Pain reliever. Being physically uncomfortable during your interview is a nightmare. If you're prone to stress headaches, have this on your person.
5. Fun plans. You might live in this city or town someday. If you have the time, explore it. This will give you something to look forward to after your interview, and it might come up in interview small talk. "Will you be doing anything while you're in town?” Yes! I'm checking out the botanical garden this afternoon. This simultaneously shows your interest in the area and makes you seem like you have a life and interests outside of studying.
Applying to medical school? We're here for you. Check out Apply Point's offerings.
Theoretically, you need to bring nothing. The interviewers have everything they need from you already. But there area couple of things that we suggest you bring along to an in person interview.
1. A copy of your complete application. A traditional interview could be open file, with your interviewer or interviewers looking at your application as you chat, or semi-open or closed file. This application isn't for you to hand over to your interviewer. This copy is for you. Review it while you're waiting so that you can refresh your nervous brain and stick to the same takeaways. If you feel you've reviewed this application all you can review it, take a break, and read a book while you wait.
2. A notebook. As noted earlier, you can ask questions during your interview too. Feel free to bring yours prewritten and jot down shorthand versions of your interviewers' answers. Maybe we're old-fashioned, but we find that using a phone or laptop for the same purpose can come off as rude. You're more likely to break eye contact for extended periods when using technology. Stick to the notebook, and look up and nod periodically as you write. (Your notebook can also come in handy during the MMI interview, when you might want to use your thinking time to jot down some thoughts before saying your answer aloud.)
3. The right clothing and accessories. You already know not to wear anything revealing or sloppy. You should bedressing for your audience—these are older adults. A suit is never a bad idea. It's bizarre to put it this way, butwhat would you wear to a funeral? Because that's a respectful outfit. But this tip has less to do with being interview-appropriate than with being activity- and weather-appropriate. If you're touring the campus before or after your interview, wear or bring comfortable shoes. If it's going to rain, bring an umbrella. If you'refrom Florida and you don't have a warm coat, borrow or buy one before your interview in Wisconsin. Whenyou're engrossed in interview prep, these are the kindsof things you'll forget.
4. Pain reliever. Being physically uncomfortable during your interview is a nightmare. If you're prone to stress headaches, have this on your person.
5. Fun plans. You might live in this city or town someday. If you have the time, explore it. This will give you something to look forward to after your interview, and it might come up in interview small talk. "Will you be doing anything while you're in town?” Yes! I'm checking out the botanical garden this afternoon. This simultaneously shows your interest in the area and makes you seem like you have a life and interests outside of studying.
Applying to medical school? We're here for you. Check out Apply Point's offerings.
