With interview season underway, we have had an influx of mock interview appointments. While we are, as always, impressed with the quality of our students' interview responses, here are 3 common interview mistakes we have noticed that every interviewee should try to avoid:
1. GENERALIZING
Compare these two interview responses to the question "What distinguishes you from other applicants?"
"I am a hard worker. I work really hard and always do my best with every responsibility."
"I manage stress well. For example, last semester, I took an overload of course units and I was working 20 hours a week in an off-campus lab. During mid-terms I could have struggled tremendously with the load I had taken on, but I didn't, because I've taught myself great time management skills and daily relaxation exercises. I start every day early, get a run in, then practice deep breathing before I even begin to start thinking about doing my work. It's this focus and balance that has helped me maintain a high GPA while exploring my other interests."
No, these aren't verbatim responses that we've heard in mocks. Still, who would you rather extend an acceptance to? Prepare actual examples for questions in advance.
2. HIDING UNDER A ROCK DURING INTERVIEW SEASON
Though the desire to disappear into a cave of anxiety can be oh-so-tempting during this time, you should be aware of current events, especially those relating to health. Why? Many schools ask questions about what you think of current affairs, or they'll specifically pose questions about new and relevant developments in health science. To avoid sounding like you're just on a quick intergalactic detour to Earth, pick up a newspaper, or just read the news online. Search for stories that may be relevant to you as a pre-health/med student. Even if no such questions are brought up and the interview is very casual, you'll feel extra knowledgeable and able to carry on intelligent conversation with your interviewers.
3. NOT KNOWING ANYTHING ABOUT THE SCHOOL
Every school wants to know why you're interviewing with them. While the answer may realistically be something like "Cause you can make me an physician/optometrist/dentist as well as any other school" Your interviewers will be less than impressed with a lackluster response. Learn about the school from the website (instruction style, student organizations, other basic information) but also learn about the city and state that the school is in. With your home state this is a no-brainer, but interviewers from out-of-state want to be assured that you are going to adjust well to your new living circumstances.
We hope that these tips prove useful to you in your coming interviews. Good luck!
