The next few weeks on the HCEC timeline are reserved for interviews. This means each applicant has already submitted his/her personal statement and background information (including academic record, service/extracurricular activities, clinical/research experience) to the committee. The Health Careers Evaluation Committee (HCEC) serves Cornell undergraduate students and alumni who are applying to post-graduate doctoral-level degree-granting programs in human health professions by preparing a letter of evaluation. Each letter of evaluation summarizes the applicant’s academic record, provides context about his/her background, and conveys the strengths of each applicant. The HCEC interview has two main purposes: 1) The interviewer uses impressions from the conversation, submitted materials, and letters of recommendation to assess each applicant’s readiness in pursuing a medical profession and to include in the letter of evaluation 2) To provide undergraduate registrants a simulated medical/dental school admissions interview. Here is a list of tips and tricks for preparing for your HCEC Interview:
1. Read over your HCEC Background Information Form (BIF) and Personal Statement:
- Your interviewer will have access to all of the materials that you have submitted and will have reviewed your documents prior to the interview. Most of your questions will stem from the activities and experiences you have been a part of throughout your undergraduate years so be able to give background and thoroughly explain everything you have listed.
2. Dress (and greet!) to impress:
- Your interviewer will be a member of Cornell faculty or senior staff including professors, research associates, student services staff members, Gannett clinicians and librarians. The interviewer will submit comments and observations from the interview. Although there are no requirements on dress code, many students choose to wear business casual clothing. The interviewer has only 30 minutes to 1½ hours to speak with you so your first impression will make an impact. Overall appearing put together, having a strong handshake, and being confident can go a long way.
3. Consider how to answer behavioral questions and profession-related questions prior to the interview:
- Take time to think about or even write out responses to questions on:
- Everything listed in your personal statement and BIF
- Your personal interests, characteristics, and motivation
- How your education has prepared you
- CHECK OUT THE CEC’S MARKETING HUMAN ECOLOGY PAMPHLET! – https://issuu.com/careerexplorationcenter/docs/marketing_your_human_ecology_educat
- Why you want to be a doctor or dentist
- Challenges of pursuing the field
- Demonstrating your knowledge of science-related topics, especially those from classes you have TA’ed for or been involved in research in
- Your understanding of health-care field: policy, ethics, current events
- How you have gained insight or personal growth from different experiences
4. Once the interview ends, ask the interviewer for feedback on specific areas to improve:
- The interviewer will signal if time is up. Be sure to ask the interviewer on your strengths and weaknesses, interpersonal skills, and interview habits. If pertinent, you may also ask if you can send additional information after your interview. After the interview, continue self-analysis by thinking of ways to improve your answers. Also, send the interviewer a thank-you note for volunteering his/her time and an update about your outcome!
5. PRACTICE: Schedule a mock interview at the Career Exploration Center (MVR 162)!
- The career assistants are trained in running mock interviews and resume critiques for all different fields. Practicing responses through a mock interview will help you gage the strengths and weaknesses in your responses, body language, and interview habits.
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR INTERVIEWS!