advice for medical school interview?

Question

how can i prepare (what can i prepare... anything i can read up on?)? what should i be ready for? any general advice or word's of wisedom? the interview is at cambridge....

Answer 1

I highly suggest, if you have some time to stop by a bookstore, that you check out the book "Best 168 Medical Schools." It has a list of questions for you to think about (the Princeton Review surveyed medical students about their schools and the medical school application process). Since the questions are not limited to medicine, you'll have a better understanding as to what to expect (they might ask you some really odd questions that'll throw you off).

Answer 2

1

Answer 3

Be prepared for the tough questions:

1. Why do you want to be a doctor?
You may plan to give a standard good answer: to help people while in a intellectually stimulating profession. But you can do good work for people in another profession; why not pursue those careers? (social worker, teacher...) Beware that they are also fishing for the money motive.

2. How did you decide that you wanted to become a doctor?
They may be looking for a convincing "back story". What was your experience that made you think about becoming a doctor? Were you a patient, and the work looked interesting? Have you volunteered in a hospital setting? Are your parents doctors? Caution about the last one: you may be pursuing medicine for them. Make sure you show that you're doing it on your own volition and desire.

3. The Ethical Dilemmas and Medical Realities http://www.acponline.org/ethics/ethicman5th.htm
Learn about the ethical dilemmas that physicians face. Example:s Is there a time to consider euthanasia? In what situations? What are the types of euthanasia? Will economics affect your decisions in medical situations? Should it? How? Above all, show that you know that the patient is first, always: first in decision making (unless in a "non-decisional" state - not incompetent, that's a legal term), and first in your concerns (medical management: goals). Somehow, show that you understand the need for "bedside manner" -- how to "break the news" of serious disease or a serious decision to be made.

Show that you've done some "homework".


They may ask you about your concerns about the school or program. A suggestion for something for you to inquire about: student supports such as academic help, and psychological help (for stressful times).


Of course, dress conservatively. Dressing like a doctor shows that you're "on board" with what they do. Don't dress to be different or interesting. For example, men should not wear bowties, just the normal modern tie with a geometric design or a muted abstract.

You may choose to carry a portfolio, a simple leather(-like) folder for loose papers that you may carry or that you may be given.

Good Luck!

Answer 4

Just relax and be yourself. There is nothing you can do to prepare for this interview.