2009 Magee Medical School Manual

2009

Magee Medical School Manual

Link To Print Text

The 2009 Magee Medical School Manual

A Practical Guide to Getting into Medical School

Mike Magee, MD

Order information contact: http://www.spencerbooks.com

2009 Magee Medical School Manual/Mike Magee, MD

104 p. 1 cm.

ISBN: 1-889793-24-8

Available Online at www.spencerbooks.com

The 2009 Magee Medical School Manual

is a publication of Spencer Books, a division of Positive Medicine Inc.,

a company which encourages the development of humanistically and scientiﬁcally balanced caring professionals committed to patients, families, and their communities.

For more information about this publication, or Positive Medicine Inc., see www.mikemagee.org

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Table of Contents

I Introduction

II Overview

Undergraduate Preparation

Allopathic vs. Osteopathic Medical Schools

Application to Medical School

The MCAT

Early Decision Program

Recommended Number of Application

Selecting a Medical School

III The Application Process

Calendar of Deadlines

Timeline

The Admissions Committee and Its Function

The File

The Personal Essay

Transcripts

Chronology

The Purpose of the Interview

Qualiﬁcations Evaluated

Committee Assessment

Protocol for Tracking Status of Application

10 Common Mistakes

IV The Interview

A Familiar Format

Preparation for the Interview

Conducting a Self Pre-interview

Interview Questions to Expect

Physical Appearance

Body Language

Bodily Actions To Avoid

Interview Recommendations

Optimal Arrival for the Interview

Quick Tips for Success

Relaxation Techniques

The Appearance

Some Key Points

Tough Questions

Post Interview Self-Evaluation

Summary of Interview Advice

V The Profile

The Class of 2007

Medical Students' Beliefs

VI Informational Resources

Print Information

Health Careers Information

Electronic Information

Medical Science Information

VII American Medical Schools

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Introduction

An Introductory Message by Author

Mike Magee, MD

This book is dedicated to those who seek to devote their lives to a career in medicine. It is intended to assist would-be physicians as they navigate the complex and often daunting medical school admissions process.

In an era that heralds accelerated breakthroughs and scientific discoveries, medical science is on the brink of an unprecedented ability to understand and manipulate human life. Our understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying diseases has greatly expanded the scope of the possible. Knowledge of the genome will allow us to predict and prevent diseases before they start. Future physicians can anticipate a constant stream of newly minted medical advances to revolutionize their medical practice, particularly the treatment of heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer's and cancer.

Physicians who thoughtfully and passionately embrace this medical and technological revolution will shape the future of medicine. Medicine will also be shaped by demographic changes. By 2030, 50 percent of American adults will be 50 or more years old, and the population of adults over 85 years old will have doubled. The challenge of meeting the ever-increasing demand for quality health care will depend upon progress in scientific understanding, health system reform, and applications of new information technology.

Through all of the transformational changes to come, our need for interpersonal connection will remain. Medicine will always be a profession that marries the role of medical mystery solver with compassionate healer. Medical schools will forever seek students who communicate effectively, who rigorously pursue intellectual excellence, and who find purpose, satisfaction and dignity in human service.

This book is not a secret formula that will guarantee admission to medical school. It does provide aspiring physicians with specific, practical recommendations that will help them positively and memorably present themselves to prospective medical schools. With a call to those committed to transforming their knowledge of health and science into actions that will improve people's lives, and with wholehearted endorsement of your career choice, I wish each of you the very best success.

Sincerely,

Mike Magee, MD

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Overview

There are approximately 80,000 students at any one time enrolled in America's 158 medical schools. In 2008 this unique body of talented and diverse individuals was revitalized with 22,425 women and men chosen from 54,080 applicants. These medical students are highly qualified, having fulfilled exacting science requirements and achieved excellent grade point averages and MCAT scores.

With more than twice as many applicants as there are seats, how do medical schools decide whom to accept? Four criteria are used to evaluate applicants:

• Grade point average,

• MCAT scores,

• Letters of recommendation,

• Interviews, are often the determining factors in accepting or rejecting candidates.

As important as the interview is, preparation for it is often overlooked. The rigorous undergraduate science curriculum, the demanding process of choosing and applying to schools, the hours of study for MCAT exams, and the development of relationships with professors who will write insightful, personal letters of recommendation often take precedence over preparation for an admissions interview. Yet, successful interviews require research, introspection and analytical thought. Chapter IV of this manual prepares applicants for medical school interviews.

Undergraduate Preparation

Today, medical schools accept a broad range of undergraduate majors. Indeed, approximately 15% of applicants for the allopathic medical school Class of 2007 (who entered medical school in Fall, 2003) majored in humanities and social sciences. The acceptance rate for liberal arts majors roughly mirrored the overall acceptance rate. Still, most applicants choose a traditional path, with approximately 81% of the allopathic medical school Class of 2007 majoring in biological or physical sciences.

Most colleges and universities maintain a pre-medical advisory office. While advice on curricular choices varies from school to school, undergraduates should enroll in courses that will develop their competence in required sciences as well as contribute to their well-rounded candidacy.

Most medical schools require successful completion of the following laboratory courses:

• introductory biology (one year)

• inorganic or general chemistry (one year)

• organic chemistry (one year)

• physics (one year)

Other courses commonly required include:

• calculus or college math or statistics

• English (one year)

• humanities electives

• anatomy and physiology

• biochemistry

• genetics

Since the MCAT test required for admission to medical school assesses your knowledge of science concepts and principles, as well as problem-solving, critical thinking and writing skills, complete these courses during the ﬁrst three years of college so that by your junior year you can take the April or August MCATs.

Allopathic vs. Osteopathic Medical Schools

In the United States and its territories, 130 allopathic medical schools grant Doctorates of Medicine, or MDs, and 25 osteopathic medical schools (plus 3 branch schools)grant Doctorates of Osteopathy, or D.O.s.

The first school of medicine in the United States was founded at the University of Pennsylvania in 1765 by John Morgan, a young surgeon. In 1892, some 127 years later, Andrew Taylor Still, MD, founded the first School of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri. This school emphasized musculoskeletal training and manipulation to aid bodily function. Though chartered by state law to grant graduates an MD, Taylor chose instead to grant Doctorates of Osteopathy, or D.O.s.

Over the next century, the two branches of medicine often clashed. By 1974, the federal and state government as well as the American Medical Association recognized both MDs and D.O.s as legally separate but equal branches of medicine. Today, allopathic and osteopathic medical schools share the following characteristics:

• Applicants possess four-year undergraduate degrees and meet similar science prerequisites.

• Accepted students must complete four years of medical school (2 years didactic/2 years clinical).

• Graduates may pursue specialist or generalist tracks.

• Graduates must pass board exams for licensure.

• Graduates are qualified to commence residency training programs in fully accredited hospitals.

To learn how students enrolled in allopathic schools compared to those enrolled in osteopathic schools, see Chapter V. To learn more about allopathic medical schools, contact the Association of American Medical Colleges at www.aamc.org. For osteopathic medical schools, contact the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine at www.aacom.org.

Application to Medical School

Almost all of the 130 allopathic medical schools now participate in the American Medical College Application Service, or AMCAS. The AMCAS (www.aamc.org/amcas) electronic application is available on the web in April of each year. AMCAS processes and forwards your application and MCAT scores to the individual schools to which you apply beginning around June 1st. Application through AMCAS allows you to complete the application process once and to simultaneously apply to any of the 120 participating allopathic schools and programs.

The AMCAS application fee is based upon the number of schools to which applicants apply. The fee for an application is $160 for the first school and $30.00 for each additional school regardless of the point at which you add school designations. In addition to this fee, individual medical schools have supplemental application fees that range from $25 to $100. Upon receipt of your AMCAS application, each school usually sends secondary application materials as well as a bill for the school's individual application fee. Failure to remit this fee may result in no further action being taken on your application.

To obtain an AMCAS web application (the paper version is no longer produced) or additional information about AMCAS, contact:

AMCAS

American Medical College Application Service

Section for Student Services

2501 M Street, NW, Lobby-26

Washington, DC 20037-1300

(202) 828-0600

www.aamc.org/amcas

The 25 plus 3 branch osteopathic medical schools participate in a comparable application service. The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service, or AACOMAS, processes and forwards your application and MCAT scores to the individual schools to which you apply beginning around June 1st. The charge for one school is $155, for two $190, and $30 for each additional school.

To obtain an AACOMAS application, available in April, contact your college advisory office, AACOMAS participating schools, or AACOMAS at:

AACOMAS

American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic

Medicine Application Service

5550 Friendship Blvd.

Suite 310

Chevy Chase, MD 20815

(301) 968-4190

http://aacomas.aacom.org

The MCAT

The MCAT is a standardized multiple choice and written examination administered multiple times in various locations between January and September each year. Most schools recommend that the test, which is required for admission to medical school, be taken 12-18 months prior to intended enrollment.Taking the MCAT byApril allows results to be available in time for your AMCAS and/or AACOMAS applications in the beginning of the yearly cycle. While you may repeat the test, it is unwise to take MCATs "just for practice" because all MCAT scores are recorded on your application. It is best to do well on your first take.

The MCAT assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, writing skills and knowledge of science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine. The four components of the MCAT are:

• Verbal Reasoning, 60 questions, 85 minutes, a test of reading comprehension, reasoning skills and critical thought. Content is drawn from humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

• Biological Sciences, 77 questions, 100 minutes, a test of general biology concepts and problem-solving skills that includes graphs, tables and charts.

• Physical Sciences, 77 questions, 100 minutes, a test of physics, organic and inorganic chemistry, DNA and genetics concepts and problem-solving skills that includes graphs, tables and charts.

• Writing Sample, two essay questions, 60 minutes, a test of writing and analytical skills.

Four scores are reported, one for each section. Verbal Reasoning, Physical Sciences and Biological Sciences grades are scored on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 15 (highest). The Writing Sample is scored on a scale ranging from J (lowest) to T (highest).

Information and registration for the April MCAT exam are generally available in February and can be found at www.aamc.org/mcat. Registration for the MCAT is only available online.

Payment of approximately $190 covers administration of the MCAT exam and release of your test scores to AMCAS participation schools and 8 non-AMCAS participating schools The $190 MCAT fee may be reduced or waived. Waiver materials can be found at www.aamc.org/fap.

In addition to test preparation texts such as Arco's, Flower's, Baron's, Monarch's and Barnes and Noble's, students may find the following resources useful in preparing for the MCAT:

1. Association of American Medical Colleges

MCAT Publication – Student Manual

Membership and Publication Orders

2450 N Street, NW

Washington, DC 20037-1129

(202) 828-0416

www.aamc.org

AAMC provides a student manual of sample tests.

2. Kaplan Educational Centers

131 West 56th Street

New York, NY 10019

(800) 527-8378

www.kaplan.com

An MCAT review course is available.

3. Princeton Review

2315 Broadway

New York, NY 10024

(212) 925-6447

www.review.com

An MCAT review course is available.

Early Decision Program

Approximately two-thirds of American medical schools participate in an Early Decision Program for highly qualified applicants with a strong preference for one school. Students who participate in this program agree to apply by August 1, and agree to apply to no other school prior to the medical college's October 1 decision. Students agree to enroll in the early decision school if accepted. Students not accepted early decision may be deferred for consideration with regular candidates, or rejected

One disadvantage of the EDP is that it prevents application to other schools until after October 1st. This delay can significantly decrease your chances of admission compared to an application submitted earlier in the cycle. In 2003, 55% of the allopathic candidates received acceptances compared to 49% of the general applicant pool. This is higher than the prior year's 67% acceptance rate for EDP candidates.

Recommended Number of Applications

For the Entering Class of 2008, students applying to allopathic medical schools submitted an average of 13 applications. Students applying to osteopathic medical schools submitted applications to an average of 7 medical schools.

The data indicates little difference in acceptance rates for those applying to multiple schools. In 2003, of those who applied to seven to nineteen allopathic schools, 53% were accepted by at least one school, while those who applied to more than nineteen schools had an acceptance rate of 59%. More important than acceptance rates is choosing schools that match your specific qualifications and interests, and that have historically accepted students from your college.

A number of factors may enhance your chances for admission. These include state residency, institutions where you apply early decision or have an existing personal connection, and membership in a special interest group.

Selecting a Medical School

To decide upon a medical school, read available literature both from and about different schools, visit campuses and their web sites, and discuss schools with your advisors and with current medical students. 10 factors to consider when comparing schools are:

1. Policies favoring state residents

2. Size of student body

3. Student:faculty ratio

4. Patient care opportunities

5. Geographic location

6. Student services

7. Sources of financial support

8. Cost

9. Unique volunteer/research/leadership activities
10. Positioning for residencies or future graduate studies

Differences in curriculum should also be noted. 10 curricular areas expanding in American medical schools are:

1. Nutrition

2. Geriatrics

3. Epidemiology

4. Environmental health

5. Preventive and prospective health care

6. Medical humanities

7. Medical ethics

8. Clinical decision making

9. Medical information systems

10. Socioeconomics of medicine

Chances for admission may be enhanced if the following characteristics apply to you:

1. State resident

2. Member of a under-served group

3. Willingness to practice in under-served or rural areas

4. Plans to become a primary care physician

5. Existing relationship with school

6. Residence in adjacent, contractually linked states

7. Early submission of application

8. Your college is one of the medical school's "feeder" schools

9. Credentials comparable to or exceeding the school's applicant pool

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III

The Application Process

Calendar of Deadlines

Entering Medical School in 2010

MCAT Review/Applications January, 2009

MCAT Registration January 2009

April MCAT Registration Deadline 14 calendar days prior to test date

AMCAS Processing Begins May, 2009

AACOMAS Processing Begins May, 2009

MCAT Administered January thru September, 2009

MCAT Results Available see site

Optimal Submission of Complete

Application June, 2009

Early Decision Program Application

Filed August 1, 2009

Early Decision Application

Complete August 1, 2009

Early Decision Rendered October 1, 2009

Application Deadline for Most Schools October 15 to December 15 (check individual school)

Timeline

Create a timeline by first deciding when you want to enter medical school. Then, in sequential order, follow these steps:

1. Fulfill science requirements.

Basic undergraduate sciences in biology, chemistry and physics, including laboratories, are a prerequisite for application to medical school. To be competitive, you should attain A's and B's in these courses. By January of your junior year, request and verify the accuracy of transcripts from all colleges attended.

2. Volunteer or work in health settings.

Most medical schools seek prospective students who have been exposed to physicians and patients in health-related settings. Such experience demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to health science and to human service. Interviews often aggressively explore just how significant your involvement was.

3.Broaden your course selection. If possible, take classes that will expand your potential as a caring individual, community leader and physician.
4.Develop onsite advisors. Cultivate strong relationships with faculty who can advise and support you. These relationships will surely enrich your academic experience. Professors can recommend courses and appropriate medical schools and write letters of recommendation. Professors might also invite you to work with them on projects or in their labs. Meet with professors and advisors at least once each semester to discuss your aspirations, intellectual passions and extracurricular activities.

5. Prepare for the MCAT.

Generally, performance on the MCAT mirrors SAT performance. Home study programs or more formalized MCAT review courses can improve performance.

6. Take an early MCAT if possible.

The MCAT exam is over 20 times in various locations each year,from January through September. An early MCAT allows scores to be delivered to AMCAS or AACOMAS in time for AMCAS and AACOMAS applications and affords the opportunity to repeat the test if necessary. The test should be taken 12-18 months prior to intended enrollment. For more information, contact MCAT at 202-828-0690 or mcat@aamc.org.

7. Submit transcripts to AMCAS/AACOMAS.

Transcripts require the greatest lead-time and should be requested, verified and sent prior to completion of your AMCAS, non-AMCAS or AACOMAS applications. Since official transcripts are accepted by AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS schools beginning in May, you should request that each school you have attended send you a transcript. Check each transcript for accuracy and then ask each school to send a single, official transcript to AMCAS or AACOMAS and an official transcript to each of your non-AMCAS participating schools.

For information regarding application to allopathic medical schools, contact AMCAS at (202) 828-0600 or www.aamc.org/students/amcas. Application information regarding non-AMCAS schools must be obtained directly from these schools. For information regarding application to osteopathic medical schools, contact AACOMAS at (301) 968-4190 or www.aacomas.aacom.org.

8. Submit applications early to optimize your chances.

Early applications are associated with a greater likelihood of being invited for interviews. Submit applications as soon as possible and include your scores, transcripts, personal essay and letters of recommendation. Maintain records of all your applications.

9. Monitor application submission.

Track the arrival of your applications to ensure their completeness and their receipt by each school to which you are applying. To assume safe delivery is to court disappointment. You must be your own best advocate in the application process.

The Admissions Committee and Its Function

In most medical schools, the Admissions Committee is comprised of 15 or more members of the general faculty, as well as representatives from the medical student body. The Dean of Admissions usually chairs the committee and he or she reports directly to the Medical School Dean. The committee first evaluates students by reviewing their credentials and letters of recommendation. Committee members also conduct interviews and submit written evaluations of interviewees. The entire committee discusses each candidate's application, with the interviewer often commenting on his or her impressions. During committee meetings, all members evaluate interviewed students and participate in the voting. Meetings are usually held weekly from early fall through the end of spring.

The File

The Admissions Office maintains a file on each applicant. This file includes your AMCAS, AACOMAS, or non-AMCAS school application, your science and non-science GPA, grades from all transcripts, a list of the schools you have attended, all MCAT scores, letters of recommendation and your personal statement. In addition, your file may contain notations of support, and records of all written, verbal, and onsite inquiries you have made regarding your admission to the school.

The Personal Essay

The personal essay is the only truly personal statement you make prior to your interview. Use the essay to sell yourself. An effective essay will distinguish you from all other candidates, most of whom will have credentials nearly identical to your own. Some counsel:

DO:

1. Catch the reader's attention from your first sentence. Skilled journalists know the power of a short, compelling lead. Keep your reader's attention with a well-organized, concise personal essay. A strong close will further convince your audience that it is in their best interest to interview you.

2. Describe specific accomplishments, giving the reader a well-focused and articulate view of who you are, your interests, experience and history.

3. In presenting your many achievements, do so within the context of gratitude for the opportunity rather than as a testimonial to your greatness or conquests.

4. Explain information in your application that might be viewed negatively by an admissions committee. This includes course failures, withdrawals, low MCAT scores, or other issues that might detract from your strength as an applicant.

5. Focus on honest, concrete, original, biographical information. Use your own voice. If you do quote someone, make sure the quote is highly relevant and invigorates your message. Hackneyed quotes, no; fresh, wise and pertinent, yes.

6. Make your essay visually inviting to read. Revise carefully for correct punctuation, spelling and grammar. Have others critique the essay for accuracy, clarity and style

DON’T:

1. Criticize your school, departments or teachers. Stay positive.

2. Be purposefully controversial or argumentative.

3. Try to make too many points. You have one page to convey two to three messages. Provide evidence that will convince your reader that you are a winning candidate who will make the school and the reader proud. Lead the reader to this conclusion but don't state this conclusion yourself.

Transcripts

Problems with transcripts are the most common cause of delayed comp-letion of application. AMCAS and AACOMAS will provide you with a Transcript Matching Form. Obtain copies of transcripts for all undergraduate schools you have attended by January of your junior year. Once you have checked these for accuracy, have the registrars send official transcripts to AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS schools. Complete the Academic Record portion of your AMCAS, AACOMAS or non-AMCAS application and send the application. Note that the Transcript Matching Form must accompany each transcript.

Chronology

1. Request and verify accuracy of transcripts from all schools attended.

2. Have each college send official transcripts and send Transcript Matching Forms to AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS medical schools.

3. Expect notification of receipt of transcripts from AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS medical schools two to three weeks after requesting that these be sent.

4. Obtain AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS application forms.

5. Complete and copy forms for your records.

6. Submit completed AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS application forms with fees.

7. Expect notification of receipt of your application from AMCAS, AACOMAS and non-AMCAS.

8. Submit individual medical schools' requested supplemental application fees.

9. Send mid-year grades directly to schools.

The Purpose of the Interview

The interview provides the medical school with an opportunity to learn more about applicants. It also allows the medical school to promote its own unique features. By its nature, the interview is primarily subjective. It provides useful information that actively supplements the objective information in your application.

In most cases, the interview is structured to be non-confrontational, supportive and open. Most experienced interviewers concentrate on lowering the stress level rather than raising it, and expect the applicants to be relaxed and to be themselves. Within this open setting, the applicants are provided enough time to thoughtfully answer questions.

The institution seeks women and men with outstanding intellectual and personal qualifications. The admissions committee works to select a group of individuals who are diverse in backgrounds, training and talents, yet will function well together as a class. Interviews help the committee identify a cohesive group of highly qualified individuals.

Qualifications Evaluated

Objective (GPA, MCAT) and subjective (recommendations, personal essay, interview) criteria help the admissions committee evaluate your application. These objective and subjective tools reveal your:

1. Personality

2. Maturity and honesty

3. Interpersonal skills

4. Communication skills

5. Motivation and commitment to practice medicine

6. Leadership qualities

7. Humanistic, social, and ethical concerns

8. Depth and breadth of knowledge

9. Critical thinking and coping skills

10. Creativity and original thinking

Committee Assessment

Generally, the interviewer is asked to prepare a report as soon as possible after the interview. Most evaluations are written in the interviewer's narrative style. The interviewer is asked to create a synopsis of the interview with his or her impressions. Often, the report will include interesting highlights that have been gleaned from the application folder. Most institutions grade interviews and merge interview scores with scores for MCATs, GPA, and letters of recommendation. The summation of these four scores creates a composite score. Then, candidates are ranked as outstanding, excellent, very good, good or average.

A formal presentation of the candidate before the entire committee occurs a week or two after the interview. Objective scores of GPA, both science and non-science, MCATs, and grades for letters of recommendation and interviews are presented to the committee. The interviewer is often asked to summarize the candidate and he or she uses this opportunity to promote the student's candidacy, reinforcing unique strengths and providing explanation for any weaknesses in the application. A full discussion ensues with questions directed to the interviewer. Finally, a consensus is reached as to whether the applicant should be accepted or denied admission.

Protocol for Tracking Status of Application

Medical schools emphasize the integrity of the admissions process. The interviewer acts as an agent of the committee, and the decision whether to admit an applicant is a committee decision. All inquiries and communications that follow your interview should be directed to the admissions office. Do not attempt to contact the interviewer or Dean of Admissions directly or through agents for yourself. The Dean of Admissions will contact you when a decision is made.

One caveat: often students withhold all communications with the admissions office for fear of "bothering them." In some medical schools, the number of oral and written contacts with the admissions office are tracked as a reflection of your interest. You should always write the Dean of Admissions and your interviewer a thank you note following your interview. You may also check the status of your application from time to time and express your continued interest in the school.

10 Common Mistakes

1. Inadequate preparation for MCAT exams

MCAT performance mirrors SAT performance. If you are an average standardized test taker, consider an MCAT review course.

2. Late application

Submit applications early. The most common cause for mistakes is difficulty with transcripts. Start early and understand the process in detail. This requires excellent planning and coordination of transcripts, MCAT's, recommendations, and applications. Ideally, you should begin planning two years before you intend to enroll.

3. Poor performance in core sciences

To be competitive, A's and B's in core science courses are generally required. An occasional C gets by, especially if accompanied by excellent MCAT's. Repeat core courses where you earned a C or below to demonstrate your mastery of the subject matter.

4. Lack of volunteer or health service experience

It has become a general expectation that candidates will pursue experiences that demonstrate growth as a caring, service-oriented individual in the field of health care. This experience enhances your understanding and commitment to a life of medicine.

5. Poor choice of references

A single poor reference, even subtly stated, can send an application off track. Nurture relationships with future references early. Carefully assess the level of an individual's support for you. Consider choosing those who have already demonstrated concrete support for you through grades or other forms of recognition.

6. Poor personal essay
7.Write a clear, concise, well-organized and interesting statement. Check its grammar, punctuation, spelling and clarity. Seek qualified or expert critique and revise accordingly.

7. Failure to monitor application status

The application process is complex and requires sequential coordinated actions. Ensure that your completed application materials are submitted and confirm their receipt by July or August.

8. Inadequate research of school

Some of the medical schools will ideally suit your personality, interests and talents; others will not. Thoroughly research medical colleges by reviewing literature, visiting campuses and conferring with pre-medical advisers, alumni and current medical students. Also consider factors such as in-state versus out-of-state admission rates.

9. Inadequate preparation for your interview

Although the interview commonly carries a quarter of the decision weight, and can actually collapse an otherwise qualified applicant, many students continue to "wing it." Careful research, preparation and performance are a must. The cardinal sins: appearing arrogant or disinterested.

10. Lack of post-interview follow through

In some schools, all verbal, written and physical contacts are captured in your application file. A thank you note to the Dean of Admissions and your interviewer is always appreciated. Gratitude is a becoming attitude in everyone, and a thank you letter leaves a favorable impression on the people who may accept you. Occasional respectful contacts to check on the status of your application are generally received as an expression of continued interest.

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The Interview

A Familiar Format

The most frequent type of interaction between two individuals simulates an interview with one individual soliciting information and the other providing it. Regard the medical school interview as an exchange of information. Since you were young, you have been approached and have approached others to obtain information. An interview also allows people to develop a relationship and form an impression of one other. The interview is a most flexible format that can be highly individualized. It can move forward in a prearranged manner or adapt and pursue unexpected lines of inquiry. Thorough preparation allows you to take advantage of this format. Be prepared to provide accurate and comprehensive information while keeping it positive.

Preparation for the Interview

To assure a successful interview, prepare. Think of yourself as a reporter assigned an important issue to investigate. You need a clear understanding of the organization and individuals who will be interviewing you, and the message and image you intend to convey. Review the school's catalogue and other sources of information.

Conduct the following self-inventory before your interview:

• What is your objective?

• What is your message and how does it support your objective?

• Who is your audience?

• What do you know about this institution, its people, its curriculum and its culture?

• What do they know about you?

• Have you reviewed your own application?

• What within your application makes you uncomfortable?

• What do you hope they won't ask you and how will you answer when they do?

• Where and when is the interview?

• Have you made adequate arrangements for lodging?

• Have you allotted extra time so that you can arrive at your interview relaxed and on time?

Interview Questions to Expect

Here are questions commonly asked during medical school interviews. Can you answer each?

• What do you believe in?

• What do you care about?

• How does that caring express itself?

• How did you investigate a career in medicine?

• What made you decide to pursue a career in medicine?

• What is your favorite type of teaching style?

• What branch of medicine most interests you?

• Who knows you the best in this world?

• How would that person describe you, and what advice have they provided you?

• What teamwork experiences have you had?

• Who are your heroes?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• What skills have you developed outside the classroom?

• Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

• What is the greatest obstacle you have had to overcome?

• What issues confront medicine today? (see www.healthcommentary.org)

• What has been your greatest achievement?

• What person, past or present, would you most like to meet?

• What have you read recently in the press about health care?

• What makes you a better applicant than others?

• Why do you want to become a physician?

• How would you express your concern for a child needing an amputation?

• How do you relax?

• What is your biggest concern about entering medical school?

• Describe your best teacher and what made her or him unique.

• Describe an experience you had helping others.

• What was the last book you read?

• Describe an experience where you were misjudged.

• What has been your favorite non-science course and why?

• Who are your senators, congressional representatives, governor?

• What was your most difficult or demoralizing experience?

• What is the difference between sympathy and empathy?

• Is there anything you want to brag about or that you need to explain?

• If you are accepted to multiple schools, how will you make your decision?

• What is the toughest thing about being a patient?

• What type of criticism upsets you?

• Have you ever been a patient and, if so, can you reveal how that felt?

• How have your personal and volunteer experiences strengthened your goal to become a physician?

• What have been the strengths and weaknesses of your college preparation?

• Would you say you are most like your father or mother, and why?

• Why did you choose an osteopathic/allopathic school?

• What will you do next year if you don't get into medical school?

• Is this school your first choice?

• Why did you apply to this medical school?

• Is there anything I haven't asked you that you want to tell me?

The following subjects were covered in over two-thirds of the Class of 2006's medical school interviews:

• The source of your inspiration to pursue medicine

• Interpersonal qualities that will enhance your practice of medicine

• Specific qualities that lead to the choice of this medical school

• Qualities that will insure your success as a medical school student and physician

• Interest in generalist versus specialist fields

The following topics are commonly raised regarding medical ethics:

• Privacy

• Children's rights

• Rights of the handicapped

• Rights of the terminally ill

• Rights of newborns with congenital abnormalities

• Organ donation

• Care of the mentally handicapped

• Care of the elderly

• Determination of death
• Physician's responsibility for societal health

Physical Appearance

Physical appearance creates a first impression and impacts how you are perceived. Present yourself in a personable and professional manner.

Some dress for success tips:

• Dress conservatively. Men should wear a suit or a blazer and neatly pressed pants with a dress shirt and simple tie. Women should wear a suit or solid dress.

• Women should avoid distracting or flashy jewelry.

• Jackets should be fresh and clean.
• Remove bulky items from pockets.

• Collar and tie should be straight. Scarves should be in place.

• Avoid half-glasses or light-sensitive ones that conceal your eyes.

Body Language

Physicians are expected to be skilled communicators whose facial expressions and hand gestures carry their message. Your body language is closely observed by a physician interviewer. The following gestures convey sincerity and interest:

• Make eye contact while you are listening.

• Sit erect but not stiff, leaning slightly forward.

• Use normal conversational hand movements to underscore your message.

• Listen intently to all questions and responses from the interviewer.

Avoid the following:

• Fidgeting or nervous gestures

• Inappropriate smiling or laughter

• Tightly grasping the arms of a chair or your hands in a prayer gesture

• Tightening and loosening your facial muscles

• Unnaturally straight, rigid posture

• Wandering eyes, particularly when you are addressed or speaking
•

Interview Recommendations

1. There is no consistency from one interviewer to the next. Styles and approaches vary. Expect anything.

2. Most interviews are open and non-combative. Approach the interview with optimism.

3. Honesty is key.

4. Be prepared for questions regarding weaknesses or discrepancies in your application.

5. Don't list any honors, research projects, or volunteer experiences in your application that you will be unable to support as real and significant.

6. Ask questions if you have real ones about the school.

7. Read the school catalogue prior to the interview.

8. Do not ask what your chances are.

9. Do not get upset if the interviewer is late.

10. Allow the interviewer to interrupt you, but don't interrupt the interviewer.

11. Elaborate, but don't dominate conversation.

12. Know your application file better than the interviewer (excluding your letters of recommendation).

13. Don't ask questions about your letters of recommendation if you have waived your right to see them.

14. Know something about the city you are visiting, if only from that day's newspaper or the taxi driver.

15. Don't try to second-guess the interviewer.

16. Avoid slang terms.

17. Be courteous and considerate toward all office staff.

18. If you know a student or faculty member personally, feel free to weave this naturally into the conversation, identifying her or him as a source of guidance and advice.

19. If this school is your first choice, state it. If not, explain your first choice if asked, and present this school as your second, if this is accurate.

20. If your choice of this school is tied to a fiancee's or spouse's choice, state it. Most schools are sympathetic to couples.

Optimal Arrival for the Interview

A thoroughly planned arrival tips the odds in your favor. If the interview is not in your immediate area, come the day before and stay overnight in a hotel or at a friend's home. Be sure that the accommodations are adequate for a good night's sleep and grooming the following morning. If possible, preview the physical site where the interview will take place. If you have the interview room number, arrive early to familiarize yourself with the location. Seeing the site with its physical arrangement avoids any sense of surprise that might shake your confidence during the interview. Awaken that morning with plenty of extra time so that you can properly groom, eat, and arrive with time to spare. Use the bathroom prior to the interview to check your clothes and your smile in the mirror.

Review the following quick tips for success:

1. Be honest

2. Be professional

3. Think fast, but speak slowly

4. Be human and interesting

5. Smile. Believe in yourself and you will transfer this belief to your interviewer.

Relaxation Techniques

Most candidates experience appropriate anxiety as they approach their interview. Remember that confidence is earned and you only acquire it by meeting challenges in a positive, determined spirit. If nervous in the final hour, try the following:

• Walk around the block, let your muscles relax, your eyes wander, whistle, sing, b-r-e-a-t-h-e .

• Stretch your arms, legs, torso and facial muscles.

• Think of treasured or humorous memories. Smile or laugh.

• Breathe deeply, counting for a number of seconds, then hold your breath the equivalent number of seconds and finally exhale for as long as you can. Repeat this, each time lengthening the breath, the hold and the exhalation.

• If you are in a room awaiting the interviewer's arrival, practice deep breathing and alternately tense and relax your muscles, head to toe.

• Acknowledge that even seasoned professionals experience some stage fright. If controlled, this energizes and enhances your performance.

• Remember to believe in the very best within you.

The Appearance

The interview begins when the interviewer enters the room. Rise and greet the interviewer professionally with a firm handshake and a smile. Express your pleasure and gratitude for the opportunity to interview at this medical school. While the interviewer will take the lead and ask the questions, it's important to keep in mind that you mutually own this interview. Ideally, you will enjoy an interpersonal exchange that connects and enriches you both.

Some key points:

1. Be personal and professional.

Doctors may begin somewhat formally. Interviews often begin tensely and gradually yield to a warmer, more relaxed atmosphere. Mirror the mood of the interviewer and stay positive.

2. Stay on message.

You should have in mind two or three points that you wish to convey during the interview. Seek opportunities early to introduce and reinforce these points.

3. Practice active listening.

Listen carefully to questions posed. Clarify any inquiry or information that is unclear before you respond.

4. Control the pace.

When nervous, most people speak too quickly or too loudly. A controlled, slower pace shows a contemplative, more self-possessed candidate.

5. Monitor your body language.

Be aware that your body is a powerful communication tool.

6. Stay alert, polite, poised.

Skilled interviewers will attempt to relax you so that you will be honest and spontaneous with them. Their goal is to get to know the real you. This is your goal as well. Remember, though, that you need to maintain a polished, professional demeanor.

7. Maintain respectful, interested eye contact. Use eye contact as you would when fully engaged in and interesting conversation with a friend.

8. Affirm the positive.

If asked a question that provides an opportunity to voice something you think is important, restate the question during your response. You might even reveal that you are glad the interviewer broached the subject.

9. Proceed carefully.

Stay within the bounds of a professional interview. The interviewer is not a trusted confidante or close friend. Rather, the interviewer is appraising your personal qualities and communication skills. Humor can jeopardize your candidacy. You needn't be stiff or refrain from smiling. Just save your favorite joke for a more appropriate audience.

10. Enjoy the interview and learn from it

At the end of your meeting, you will know more about the interviewer, yourself, and this prospective medical school. Your performance will be improved by an attitude that emphasizes exploration rather than fear.

Tough Questions...

Foresee tough questions or those that come from left field. Try to provide a reasonable and informed response. It is not so much what you say, but how you say it. Some counsel:

1. Acknowledge that this is a difficult question. This shows that you are listening and gives you a few moments to prepare a reasoned, balanced response.

2. Demonstrate concern and thoughtfulness in your response and maintain a moderate voice.

3. Above all, don't take a tough question personally. Often, an interviewer poses difficult questions to test your resilience.

4. Do not argue or become defensive. The last thing you want to do is dispute the interviewer.

5. Modulate your body language. You may want to verbally retaliate, but your body should do just the opposite. This softens the impact of the trying question and demonstrates your equilibrium.

6. Segue to a more favorable message. While addressing the question, relate it to a subject that contains some of the major messages you want to convey. Candidates who can turn the tables diplomatically prove their mettle and grace.

7. Don't be overwhelmed. Your whole life is not on the line. If one hard question can undo you, you may not be able to withstand the rigors of this demanding profession.

8. Conclude your response on an amicable, positive note.

Post Interview Self-Evaluation

Now that you have made it through the interview, your work isn't over. Breathe, walk, eat, and then sit down within an hour of your interview and answer the following questions:

1. Did I stay on message?

2. Was I in control?

3. Did I tell the truth and avoid exaggeration?

4. Was I calm and did I pace myself well?

5. Did I anticipate the questions?

6. Did I present a positive, professional image?

7. Did I listen carefully?

8. Was I a credible candidate?

9. Could I have done better and how?

10. What did I learn?

There's always something you could have done a little bit better. Through conscientious introspection, you will continually develop your interpersonal skills.

Summary of Interview Advice

In summation:

1. Be Prepared: Have something to say. Say it with style, force and intelligence.

2. Be Human: Medicine requires excellent communication and people skills, composure and poise. During your interview, demonstrate your maturity, thoughtfulness and sensitivity.

3. Be Yourself: Physicians regularly practice reading people's overt and covert responses. Be yourself, trust in your preparation and in human nature and learn from your experience.

Good luck!

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The Proﬁle

Allopathic: Entering Class of 2008

• 130 schools

• 42,231 applicants

• 18,036 entrants

• 42% acceptance

• 47.8% women

Average Entrant Scores

MCAT

VR 9.9

PS 10.3

BS 10.7

GPA

Sciences 3.60

Non-Science 3.73

Total 3.66

Osteopathic: Entering Class of 2008

• 25 schools and 3 branch campuses

• 11,849 applicants

• 4,389 entrants

• 37% acceptance

• 49.7% women

Average Entrant Scores

MCAT

VR 8.40*

PS 8.14*

BS 8.77*

GPA

Sciences 3.37

Non-Science 3.55

Total 3.45

Medical Students' Beliefs:

A 2003 survey of matriculating medical students conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges revealed the following beliefs:

1. Physicians' legal liabilities and the high cost of malpractice insurance are major problems.
2. Physicians have an opportunity to exercise greater influence on health promotion and disease
3. Everyone is entitled to receive adequate medical care regardless of his ability to pay.
4. Changes in the healthcare system are impairing physician's independence.
5. Advances in the biomedical sciences and their application to the care of patients will make the practice of medicine more challenging and rewarding in the near future.
6. Access to medical care continues to be a major problem in the United States.
7. Animal research is necessary for the advancement of medicine.
8. Having interesting and intelligent colleagues is a major benefit of being a physician.
9. Physicians have an obligation to care for a reasonable number of patients who will be unable to pay for the services they receive.
10. Care of the chronically ill is one of the most challenging aspects of being a doctor.