X. INTERVIEWING AT PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS

Professional school interviews serve two major functions. First, they improve the professional schools' understanding of you as an individual. It adds a third dimension to the two-dimensional applicant who exists only in a file, prior to the interview itself. Second, it gives you an opportunity to learn about the philosophies and personalities of the professional schools from their faculties, staffs, and students. You should not underestimate the importance of the interview; interviewers' comments may tip the balance in admissions committee deliberations.

Professional schools have various formats for interviews. Most have two or more interviews in which one applicant meets with a single faculty member, upper class student or other selected interviewers. At other institutions interviews take place between several interviewers and applicants simultaneously. Still other institutions use a combination of the two formats. The interview process may last one or two days, depending on the institution.

Remain aware that the evaluation continues during the entire interview period. More than one candidate has erred by being rude to a secretary, behaving inappropriately at lunch, or becoming intoxicated at a social gathering!

The importance of the interview process naturally leads to anxiety in most students. A certain amount of anxiety is expected and understood by most interviewers. Indeed, the student who appears overconfident to the point of boredom and disinterest is suspect to some interviewers. Excessive anxiety can be reduced by planning for the interview. Good planning for an admissions interview is largely a matter of common sense. The tips listed below may help you in this regard:

    • Etiquette.  Interviews are initiated and arranged by the professional schools. It is your responsibility to respond to the interview invitation promptly and in writing.

In case of an unresolvable conflict; e.g., two interview invitations for the same day, you should telephone the professional school to discuss rescheduling and confirm in writing any agreements made in the telephone conversation.

    • Knowledge of the Host Institution. Candidates should familiarize themselves with general information, readily available in catalogs and other printed materials, to show interest in the host school and not be embarrassed by asking questions with obvious answers. The candidate should be prepared to ask thoughtful questions to obtain additional information and convey an interest in attending that professional school.

3. Dress. Men generally wear coats and ties; women wear skirts, dresses or well-tailored pantsuits. Overdressing is as inappropriate as under-dressing (jeans, T-shirts, tennis shoes, etc.).

4. Punctuality.  Arriving for interviews on time is important. Applicants should allow time for the unexpected; e.g., inclement weather, heavy traffic, or no available parking. In the event of an unavoidable delay, telephone the admissions office at the first opportunity.

5. Honesty. Candidates should not try to "second guess" or patronize the interviewer(s) by responding with answers they think are wanted. Some interviewers play the "devil's advocate." When "I don't know" is the honest reply, it should be used.

6. Responsiveness. Conversation is difficult if the candidate's responses are limited to "yes" and "no." Many questions are chosen intentionally to initiate dialogue.

7. Standard Questions. It is unlikely that an applicant will leave an interview without having been asked, directly or indirectly, "Why do you want to become a '__________' (physician, dentist, etc.)?" or "What will you do if you are not accepted to professional school?" Applicants should also expect questions about current health-care issues such as socialized medicine, distribution of health-care specialists, abortion, euthanasia, animal rights, etc.

8. Finances. Be aware of professional school costs and how you might pay for it.

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