My school's Admissions Committee met again this week, and I was surprised that applicants' "numbers" (GPA, MCAT score) and overall qualifications came up only twice during a whole evening of discussion. Instead, what dominated the dialogue was the interview content.
Highlights:
- One applicant was described as "lacking depth." He was apparently unable to elaborate upon some of the observations he made in his personal statement about differences between the US healthcare system and healthcare systems elsewhere.
- Another applicant was marked down because the interviewer was unable to get him "off script." Often, interviewers are truly trying to get to know you. For example, when they ask what you do for fun, it's not a trick; they really want to know what you enjoy. This is not an opportunity to say something about how much you love sports because they have taught you about working in teams and developing as a leader. It's enough that you love sports. Save the additional details for when you're asked a more appropriate question.
- One applicant was described as "weird." There are plenty of extremely normal smart folks out there. Being a bit unique is nice; being gross is not.
- Finally, an applicant was described as arrogant. This is a big problem. Every future doctor is proud of their achievements, but a little humility goes a long way. It's not too much to ask you to be humble for 30 straight minutes.
Remember:
- Everything in your application is fair game. If you are unable to expand upon your coursework, activities, or topics you discussed in your application materials, read up.
- Regardless of how much you've rehearsed, try to ad lib a bit. This will become even more challenging as the interview season continues. Relax. Chat.
- Don't be "that guy." For example, if you lived and bathed in a park during part of undergraduate, you might just keep this to yourself. Really.
- Be poised and confident. Don't be cocky. Often it's not what you say, it's how you say it.
