Medical School Applicants: Avoid Missteps in the Admissions Process

Check out my recent, featured interview on the Varsity Tutor blog. Note some of the biggest mistakes candidates make in applying to medical school, the single most important thing medical school applicants should focus on, and why mediocre letters of recommendation are actually bad ones.



Check me out at www.insidermedicaladmissions.com

Check Out My Latest Piece in PreMedLife Magazine

Please take a look at my recent, featured piece "Shhh...Interview Tips from a Medical School Insider" in PreMedLife Magazine.

Check me out at www.insidermedicaladmissions.com.

Medical School and Residency Interview Social Events: Dine but Don't Whine

In an effort to attract desirable applicants, some medical schools and residency programs invite candidates to social events immediately before or during the interview day. The events usually include dinner, lunch, or even drinks with the students or residents.

It's in your interest to attend these events: They show institutions that you are serious about their programs, afford you the opportunity to score social points, and allow you to gain valuable information about the students' or residents' satisfaction.

One insider piece of advice, however: Ensure you act professionally even if you are told that what you say will not affect your candidacy or get back to admissions. Even if everyone has good intentions, information garnered from these events can make its way to decision-makers. If you had a bad experience at the interview day, have a significant other who doesn't want to move, or know your first choice is a different program, these social events are not the time to reveal that information.

For insider help with medical school or residency interviews, contact me.

Check me out at www.insidermedicaladmissions.com

Medical Interview Questions: Is that Kosher?

The medical interview - whether for med school, residency, or fellowship - is subject to basic legal rules. Admissions officers should refrain from asking questions that are irrelevant to the position the interviewee is seeking. Questions about race, religion, and marital/family status are no-nos.

When I was interviewing for residency, I was asked about my dating status. Very awkward.

If you are asked these types of questions, you can simply answer (if it's not distasteful to you) or respond by addressing the intent of the question without revealing personal information. You can also refuse to answer the question; of course, this last tactic might cost you the position you are seeking.

For help responding to sticky medical interview questions, contact me.

Check me out at www.insidermedicaladmissions.com