Why do you want to be a doctor? What makes you special? Who has influenced your life the most?

One of the things that prospective students dread the most in the med school application process is answering medical school interview questions. These questions are posed by the admissions board and – along with your personal statement – are designed to provide them with greater insight into your potential, motivation and commitment to your chosen course of study.

Medical school interview questions must be answered correctly in order to make the best impression on the admissions board. You will find that a little preparation will help immensely.

Answering the interview questions

After you have successfully sent in your initial and secondary medical school applications, you’ll be summoned to a medical school interview. During this interview, you will be asked a series of questions. For those who are unprepared for the interview, these questions can be significant stumbling blocks in their quest for higher education.

That said, if you take the time and prepare yourself, you will find that these questions are not terribly difficult. It is, however, very important that you answer each question in full and to the best of your ability. Do not attempt to “tell them what they want to hear.” Be honest, be direct and be forthright in your answers, and you’ll do better.

What questions will you be asked?

You might hear a wide range of different questions when interviewing for medical school. For example, you will be questioned about why you think you'll make a good doctor. What makes you stand out from other candidates? What do you feel are your strongest areas? What are your weakest areas? What are you hobbies and outside interests? You might also be asked to explain what you see are the biggest problems facing medicine today.

Other questions you might be asked involve what other schools you are applying to, and what your goals might be should you not be accepted into medical school.

Ask your own

You should take this opportunity to ask your own questions of the admissions board. Ask what the school will be able to do for your education. Ask how many open slots are currently up for grabs. Ask them specifics about their program. Ask them any other pertinent questions that you might have, as this shows your depth of interest and displays that you are dedicated.

Other resources

About.com has an excellent list of medical school interview questions.
Berkeley University has some great information about medical school interview questions.
You will find other medical school interview questions at StudentDoc.com.