Past Interview Experiences

• We also asked some med students about their interview experiences at U of T and whether they had any tips for candidates. Here’s what they had to say:
  
  
• "I found both of my interviewers friendly and they tried to make my experience as relaxing as possible. Tips: (1) Know yourself – strengths, weaknesses etc. (2) Be reasonably informed about what is going on in the world – read the newspaper from time to time, watch the evening news (3) You should have some basic knowledge about major ethical issues (just the hot topics of the day e.g. stem cell research etc.) (4) You should have some basic knowledge about what is going on in health care e.g. issue of privatization etc. – but you don’t need to be an expert."
  
  
• "My personal experience with the admissions process at the University of Toronto can only be described as a positive one. From the excitement of being granted an interview at U of T, to the hilarious introductory video on interview day, and to the ever so friendly interview itself – all were unquestionably a most enjoyable experience. Just be yourself during the interview and all will be fine!"
  
  
• "My interview experience at U of T was very good. I enjoyed the opportunity to spend some time with the other applicants as well as some of the first year students. The video and auditorium session provided some good information and created a more relaxed atmosphere. Tips for applicants may include becoming somewhat familiar with the teaching at U of T (PBL, ASCM, etc.) so this can be integrated into the interview responses. I would also stress that the applicants try to be themselves in the interview."
  
  
• "I had a great time. The interview was more like a conversation and was very relaxed. Some tips: Be yourself, know your autobiographical sketch and essay well, read up on the latest health care issues, stay abreast of recent events in the news, and know your bioethics."
  
  
• "I must say that my interview at Toronto was the most enjoyable. The discussion centered on what I had written in my application and also about current events. The current events were things happening in Toronto, and though I hadn't read specifically about those things, we talked about the ethical principles that applied. The interview was conversational and I felt like they were genuinely interested in understanding who I was, rather than merely asking a set of questions."
  
  
• "My interview was challenging -- Be prepared to defend everything you mentioned in your essay, in a substantiated way. Be genuine, and remember that one of the things the interviewers are looking for is your response under pressure -- they want to know if you'll fall apart, or get angry. Be graceful, and don't be afraid to be firm."
  
  
• "My interview was the worst (but funniest). I was asked a question about my favourite book (because it was in my sketch) and I said, (brain cramp here) 'I liked it because ... it was ... good. Um. Yeah...'. And now I look back on it and laugh about it with my friends (but really cry on the inside). So, just be yourself, and don't make stuff up! They know you are nervous."
  
  
• "My interview at Toronto was very pleasant. I found my interviewers to be professional and friendly, and not threatening at all. I was asked questions about my essay, my extra-curricular activities, my undergraduate program, and how I would deal with a variety of ethics-type scenarios. My advice to applicants is that you should stay up to date on current events (newspaper, etc), and learn the principles of bioethics (do no harm, do good, respect individuals’ autonomy, offer treatment/allocate resources fairly & justly)"