Interviews

What it is

  • An important and usually final step in the admissions process to health professions programs, interviews will have varying formats: single or multiple one-on-ones, group interviews, panels, and multiple mini interviews (MMI). The chance for a professional school to learn more about you, including:
    • Origin of your interest in the field of medicine/dentistry/etc.
    • Commitment to the field and practice of medicine/dentistry/etc.
    • Interpersonal skills
    • Problem-solving skills
    • Academic preparation

If invited for an interview

  • Respond promptly and take the first available interview appointment
  • Learn as much about the schedule on interview day as possible
  • Begin to plan financially for travel expenses

Preparation

  • Learn as much as you can about the school, it mission and philosophy, programs, and curriculum through the school’s website and publications such as the AAMC’s Medical School Admission Requirements, the ADEA’s Guide to Dental Schools and AACOM’s College Information Book
  • Schedule interview prep and/or mock interview with UNH Career and Professional Success
  • Review types of interview questions and think through possible answers (but don’t memorize and rehearse); reflect on your experiences and what you would like schools to know about you; keep up on current events
  • Make sure you have appropriate interview clothing and practice wearing it to make sure you are comfortable
  • Carefully review your primary application (especially your personal statement and experience descriptions) as well as an supplemental materials you sent to the school; remember that anything found in your application is “fair game” for questions in the interview

Day of the Interview

  • Dress appropriately; if traveling for an interview, leave time at the hotel to re-press any items of clothing that may have wrinkled during travel; be ready for changing weather
  • Know where the interview will take place and arrive early. Try to relax and gather your thoughts before the interview begins
  • Be mindful of first impressions and body language: smile, shake hands firmly and introduce yourself; look the interviewer(s) in the eye and sit up straight. Don’t fidget or shift around in your chair and avoid nervous gestures.
  • Be confident and show enthusiasm, but stay relaxed
  • Answer honestly, succinctly and with humility; be sure to answer the question you were asked; stay positive
  • Know your strengths and accomplishments and be comfortable with who you are and what you have to offer
  • Ask questions
  • Always thank the interviewer(s) and ask for business cards; follow up with a timely thank you note (within a day or so of the interview)

Resources

MMI-specific resources