Dear Aunt Martha,
I just got an interview at one of my top choice medical schools. I am more scared than excited for this interview because the school does multiple-mini interviews. I’m not familiar with this type of interviewing format, so I’m scared I’m going to mess up my chances of getting in.
Sincerely,
Anxious Applicant
Dear Anxious Applicant,
Congratulations on being one step closer to becoming a doctor! Though it is an exciting time, it is definitely understandable that you are nervous for the interview. Below I have broken down tips and tricks to mastering the different portions of the MMI.
Situational
During this station, you will be presented with a situation and you will be asked to discuss the implications of the issue. Often the type of questions that are given during this station are ethical questions, which require you to demonstrate your problem solving skills. A tip for mastering this station is to talk about both sides of the situation and give a list of pros and cons regarding possible action courses.
Behavioral
This station is the traditional type of interview question where interviewers will ask you questions like “tell me about yourself.” A tip for mastering this station is to have people that know you well ask you questions regarding who you are. These people will be able to let you know if your answers are an accurate portrayal of yourself and if there are any details that are missing in your answers.
Acting
This portion of the interview requires you to role play and show interviewers a glimpse into what you will be like as a doctor. Often, you will be asked to deliver sad news to a patient, confront a patient about a problem, or gather information. An important tip for mastering this station is to showcase your ability to empathize with others, but at the same time to be able to be logical and rational.
Collaborative
At this station, you will be asked to complete a task or activity with someone else in the room while the interviewer watches you. As the title of this station suggests, it is important to showcase your communication skills by making sure your directions are as clear and precise as possible.
Written
During this station, you will write a response to a prompt. It is important that your content in the letter is clear and spelling and error free. Make sure to give yourself some time to proofread what you have written!
In general, the MMI tests your ability to communicate through different scenarios. In order to get better at any interview, practice is needed. Stop by the CEC between 10-4 pm Monday-Thursday and Friday from 10-2 pm on Friday to schedule a mock interview personalized to you!
Warmest wishes,
Aunt Martha