If you're looking for interview advice, why not go straight to the source? Since 2022, AAMC's Watch What Happens Live: Mock Interviews with Real Admissions Officers series has offered applicants a behind-the-scenes look at the medical school interview process. Across nine live sessions, admissions officers have shared what they're looking for, what helps applicants stand out, and the common interview mistakes they see.
We've looked back at all nine sessions and rounded up the best interview advice admissions officers shared.
Start by Understanding the Interview Format
Medical school interviews can vary from one school to another. Before you start preparing, make sure you understand the format of your interview. Here are some of the most common formats you may encounter.
- In-person vs. Virtual
- Although we’re well past the Pandemic, most medical schools continue to conduct interviews virtually. However, if you're given the option to choose between virtual and in-person interviews, admissions officers emphasize that neither format provides an advantage or is preferred over the other. Choose the option that will help you put your best foot forward.
- Although we’re well past the Pandemic, most medical schools continue to conduct interviews virtually. However, if you're given the option to choose between virtual and in-person interviews, admissions officers emphasize that neither format provides an advantage or is preferred over the other. Choose the option that will help you put your best foot forward.
- Standard vs. Multiple Mini Interview (MMI)
- A standard interview typically includes one or more conversations with admissions committee members, faculty, students, or physicians about your experiences, motivation for medicine, and personal qualities.
- The Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) format is a series of short interview stations that assess communication skills, ethical reasoning, critical thinking, and other interpersonal competencies. Instead of discussing your application in depth, you'll respond to a variety of scenarios and questions at each station. Watch this MMI mock interview for an example (skip ahead to 11:48).
- Closed File vs. Open File
- In an open-file interview, the interviewer has access to some or all of your application materials.
- In a closed-file interview, the interviewer has little or no knowledge of your application, requiring you to provide more context about your experiences and background during the conversation.
- Some medical schools use a two-interview format, with one closed-file interview and one open-file interview.
Regardless of format, admissions officers offered the following advice:
- Look Beyond the Website
Don't rely on a medical school's website alone. Panelists recommended using the Medical School Admission Requirements™ (MSAR®) website as an additional resource to research and compare schools. They also encouraged applicants to dig a little deeper by learning about each school's mission, the community it serves, and the healthcare challenges facing that community.
- Know Your Application Inside and Out
Refresh your memory before the interview by reviewing your application. Interviewers may ask about anything you've submitted, including your personal statement, activities, and secondary essays.
- Be Ready to Tell Your "Why Medicine" Story
Think of your answer as the story of your journey to medicine. Start by explaining what inspired you to pursue the profession. Then, describe the experiences that helped you explore and strengthen that interest, such as shadowing, clinical work, volunteering, or research. Finally, share how those experiences shaped the kind of physician you hope to become and the impact you hope to make. An authentic answer goes beyond simply saying, “I want to help people.”
- Answer the Question That's Been Asked
Keep your answers focused on what the interviewer is asking. If you're asked about a blemish in your application, answer honestly and explain what you learned. If you're not asked, don't feel the need to bring it up. The admissions committee has already reviewed your application and invited you to interview for a reason.
- It’s Ok to Pause
It’s ok to pause and take a moment to think before jumping in with an answer. Taking a moment to gather your thoughts can help you understand the question, organize your response, and provide a more thoughtful answer.
- Make the Most of the Q&A
Your questions are more than a chance to gather information. They can also demonstrate your interests and help you determine whether a program is the right fit. Whether you're interested in research, community service, or student life, use your questions to explore what matters most to you. If you're not sure what to ask, consider asking, “What's your favorite aspect of XYZ School?”
Finally, remember that by the time you reach the interview stage, you're evaluating the school just as much as the school is evaluating you. Use the interview as an opportunity to have a genuine conversation, learn more about the program, and decide whether it's a place where you'll thrive.
To hear more advice directly from admissions officers, watch our latest Watch What Happens Live: Mock Interview session. You can also find recordings of all previous mock interview sessions on our YouTube channel.