The Panel Interview
Welcome back to our 2022/23 Interview series! This week we will be focusing on another common interview format- the panel interview. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many dental schools have shifted back to using this traditional format to conduct their online interviews. We have created this blog to help introduce and prepare you for what is to come. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments below and we will try to address all your queries as soon as we can.
WHAT IS A PANEL INTERVIEW?
A dentistry panel interview typically involves being asked questions by 2-3 panel members. The panel usually includes a tutor, a current student and a senior staff member. These interviews tend to last between 15-20 minutes and primarily focus on your rationale to study dentistry and the skills you have acquired that will allow you to become a successful future dentist. While some of you may find this style of interview slightly daunting, it is important to remember that this format gives you the opportunity to establish a rapport with the interviewers and also gives you more time to develop your answers in detail.
Prior to the interview, it is crucial that applicants review their personal statements thoroughly as it is likely that some of the questions will be based around them. Additionally, in preparation, applicants are advised to review common ethical scenarios and keep up to date with current dentistry related news.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A PANEL INTERVIEW?
Top tips for acing your panel interview!
COMMON QUESTIONS
Why do you want to study dentistry?
What qualities do you think every dentist should have? Do you have these qualities?
Tell us something valuable you learnt from your work experience?
Why would you like to study at our university?
What are the negative aspects of dentistry?
How has the dental profession changed in the last 30 years?
What do you do for fun?
How you do cope under pressure?
How do you show good communication skills?
What excites you most about a potential career in dentistry?
WANT MORE ADVICE?
Our team at I Want To Be A Dentist are here to support and guide you through the entire admissions cycle. If you have any questions, or would like a one-to-one panel mock session, book online with one of our tutors. You can expect to receive tailored feedback and have the chance to experience what a panel interview will be like.