How to ACE your dental school interview
This article discusses the key factors necessary to consider to aid you in maximising your success at the dental school interview. Article written by Brinder Singh Shergill
Introduction
This year, due to COVID and the restrictions, the Multi Mini Interviews (MMI) will no longer be in person but be through an online format. This brings with it a new set of challenges, however, there is still a lot you can do to prepare for this interview to increase your chances of success.
Once you get your offers:
Put the interview dates into your calendar. That way you can see the time you have until the exams and then schedule time in advance to research each of these universities, storing the notes in a document, preferably online so you cannot lose it. The earlier you have these notes, the better, as you only need to recap them nearer the time of the exam.
There are two main reasons why it is important to research the university. Firstly, it helps give you confidence that you want to attend that university and can see yourself settling in there, as the course is five years, which is a long time. Secondly, it shows the university you have done your research, which shows commitment, a key element you want to demonstrate when they ask you in the MMIs “why do you want to come to this university?”.
The way to research the university best is to attend their open days, which this year I believe was online. If you attended this, fantastic, as it is something you can mention if asked the question above. If you were not able to attend, that is not a problem, you can still get an idea of the Dental Hospital and the surrounding areas. Go onto the Dental University website and have a look at any recent updates e.g. new research, new facilities, investments, etc. These are great points to talk about, especially if there is something you can relate to e.g. a topic of research they are carrying out. Look at the wider university as well to show you want to give back to the university and engage with more than just the dental hospital. Look at the different societies, sport clubs, charities, etc. and again see if any appeal to you.
I mentioned the course is five years, which is a significant period of time, so look at the surrounding area and see if this is a place you can imagine yourself living in. This will show the interviewer that not only have you done your research into the university and want to engage in many areas, but also realise the timeframe you will be investing so are looking at the non-university lifestyle as well. Even though the platform for the MMI this year has changed, I still believe there is benefit in researching previous MMI stations. Look at the Dental Hospital’s website and see if they have any information regarding the MMIs.
Interview format
The format of MMIs are similar with a varying number of stations. There will be multiple stations, each testing an area important in dentistry e.g. communication, empathy, manual dexterity. These stations will be timed with one minute to read the scenario/information and five minutes to carry out the tasks. Look online to find previous examples of MMI stations to get an idea of what is tested. I would recommend practising these scenarios with family members or friends, which you might get a little nervous/embarrassed around. This will result in you feeling more relaxed and prepared when performing in front of the interviewers. There is also a huge benefit in practising with friends who are also applying, as you get experience being the interviewer and can identify what they may be looking out for.
Technology is always one that a lot of people do not think about, but please check that your camera and microphone work and your Wi-Fi is strong enough. If there is an issue, think about purchasing an external webcam and/or a booster for your Wi-Fi signal.
The day before your interview:
Reduce anything that could go wrong that is within your control, this way you are relaxed before your interview. You need to find a quiet place where you can do the interview and can concentrate. If you are at home, ask the family to disconnect their devices from the Wi-Fi during your interview time. This reduces the chances of any connection issues. Also, if you are home, let everyone know you have an interview and ask them to be mindful during that time so you don’t have anyone interrupting you or being noisy in the background.
Turn your phone off…I repeat turn it off! Do NOT risk it being left on as it may vibrate or flash and throw you off.
Have your outfit ironed and ready. Wear something smart, this does not mean a three-piece suit, even though I am partial to one. Shirt and trousers or a smart dress that you are comfortable in will be more than enough. First impressions do count, and this is an easy way to make a good one.
On the day:
RELAX! It is easier said than done, I know, but reassure yourself. You have done a lot of preparation and practised a lot. You will get through this interview, try not let nerves get the better of you.
When you read a scenario take your time thinking about it before you answer. The 1-minute reading time is usually enough to read the scenario and get an idea of how you will approach the question. However, if you find yourself not understanding the question it is fine to ask the lecturer for more time to re-read it.
Think what the question is asking you, is it about communication, empathy, manual dexterity, etc.? Once you have identified what it is asking, make sure you address that with your answer. For example, if the question is regarding communication, be confident, clear, concise, summarise, ask if they have understood, etc.
Also, remember to introduce yourself in each station. Never underestimate the impact and value of introducing yourself to the interviewer(s), it may give you marks too.
During the interview:
If you find moments where you are getting too nervous, feel free to take some time to compose yourself. Have a sip of water and take a few breaths before continuing. You can relay this to the interviewers, they are human and realise how stressful this can be, so will have no issue if you need to gather your thoughts.
Answer the questions honestly and confidently. If you do not know an answer, you will not get marked negatively for not knowing. Talk through your thoughts regarding the question, what you think it could mean, etc., as you may pick up marks through this. Also, if you have said an answer and realised you are wrong, be honest and confident enough to admit that. You are human and it shows greater maturity to admit you have realised you have made a mistake and backtrack/restart than carrying on and getting flustered.
If you leave a station and feel like you have not done well, try to not let it affect the following stations. You can still get through even if a few stations did not go great.
Bini’s top tips:
Practise MMI scenarios with anyone that you get nervous/shy around to practise controlling your nerves. Think what an interviewer may look for in an answer.
Find a spot where you can concentrate and will not be disturbed during the interview.
Minimise the risk of issues - makes a positive first impression
Clothes are ironed and hung up
Your laptop, camera, and speaker work and the Wi-Fi is a good strength/signal.
Have water in a clear glass or bottle nearby.
Deep breaths and read the question carefully.
Always introduce yourself and smile.
Always be honest.
If you have a station that did not go great, do not let it affect the following stations.