This week we’re providing information on the various medical school interview formats.
The Osteopathic Interview. The interview process for osteopathic programs is basically the same as that of allopathic programs. Some schools will have you in-and-out of a one-on-one interview, others utilize the MMI, others will have a day-long extravaganza. “During our interview process, we have the first half of the day be an informational session,” says one administrator. “In the morning, we have presentations on the curriculum and professionalism, financial aid, learning services, and inclusion. We also schedule a medical student panel where interviewees have the chance to ask questions of current medical students.” This is followed by a traditional behavioral interview.
There are just two questions that you will be asked in an osteopathic medical interview that don't come up in allopathic interviews, for soon-to-be obvious reasons. That’s because they are:
Why are you interested in attending osteopathic medical school?
A great answer will emphasize what you'd gain from an osteopathic program, why osteopathic values mean something to you, and highlight an osteopathic clinical experience and how it impacted you.
Are you also applying to allopathic medical school?
Just be real. If the answer is yes, and it probably is, say you're exploring all possible paths to becoming a physician.