Congratulations on receiving medical school interviews! Please take a few moments to appreciate the honour and how it speaks to the strength of your application.Although it is not the final destination, it is a step in the right direction- we celebrate the process here!

Online interviews are very different from in-person. They may give you nothing: no social cues or no current medical school students running around telling you how amazing you are. You may be talking to a screen by yourself in your parent’s office. Either way, we know what we came to do. 

BEFORE YOU START PREPPING FOR THE INTERVIEW 

Do your research

Medical schools will incorporate different formats for their online interviews. Some schools use the MMI (multiple-mini interview) format, MPI (multiple personal interviews), or panels among other formats. Please inquire about the format of your interview and plan accordingly. Do not neglect the small details: how much time to prepare? How much speaking time? Do you need to download software? Although these questions may seem annoying and tedious, they will make a big difference on the big day. You want to be as comfortable as possible. 

How well do you know your story?

1. Spend some time reviewing your application and become familiar with the extra-curriculars, commitments and moments that make you stand out as an applicant.
2. Brainstorm examples to generic interview questions. Could you tell me about a time you demonstrated empathy? Communication? Resilience? What extra-curriculars best reflect your strengths and weaknesses? Engaging with your story makes it easier for you to pull out these examples if you are asked. Although you may not be asked these questions directly, spending time reviewing your application ensures you are familiar with your story and your amazing accomplishments!

INTERVIEW PREP BEGINS

Take the prep time seriously

Some interviews may give you the opportunity to organize your thoughts before you start answering the question. Use this time wisely. Develop a method of organizing your main ideas with details. Use the tools you are given or provided with, but make sure to nail down the main points of your answer. The best answers start with good prep!

Big Three on Three

As you have probably realized Zoom and online school is super draining. It is really important to manage the distance created by online interviews compared to in-person. When preparing responses, you want to refrain from long winding answers but hit your main ideas while making it easier for your listener to follow you. One of my mentors introduced me to the “Big Three Idea”: what are the three points or ideas you want the person listening to leave it? 

Practice, Practice, Practice

We only recognize authentic practice over here. When you practice with friends, family or peers make sure to mimic the situation as best as possible. Use the timeframe given by your school in terms of timing and interview format. You want to become comfortable with that school’s specific type of interview.

TIP: Do not neglect an interviewer! Many people recognize a good communicator, don’t limit your interview practice to only medical students or doctors. Your parents, family members, professors and peers can all provide additional support, use them as best you can.

Technology Check

Technology is the backbone of this interview process. If you require software or have to upload videos, do a trial run and make sure you are all set well before the interview. Give yourself enough time to try the technology and contact the school in case of any difficulty.

Dress Up!

Although you will be at home, you can mimic the format of the interview by dressing up completely. We may only see your top online but go off! Pull out the fancy pants, skirt and socks. Walk around in heels if you want because it is your day. You have earned this and you deserve to feel your very best.

I hope this email was helpful. I understand what a stressful time it is for everyone. Congratulations again on this moment and I wish you the very best!

Yours ever.

Nanayaa