How do I prepare for my medical school interview?

Congratulations on getting an interview, you're half way there! I know interviews can be overwhelming, but remember many people go through this, and it is okay to be nervous! The main thing to understand is the interviewers are not trying to catch you out. They are just trying to get know you to see whether you are a suitable candidate for their medical school. In order to prepare, you need to know 3 things for your upcoming interview. Firstly, is the style of interview - is it a panel or MMI interview? Most universities help your preparation by telling you the topics asked on the panel interview or the different stations in the MMI, so remember to read all the guidelines given. Know your answers to the staple question topics such as your interest and insight into medicine, your work and voluntary experience, and extracurricular activities, as these are most likely to come up! Secondly, sharpen your knowledge about the medical school, as the interviewers wish to know why you want to study at their medical school. So, make sure to read up on their style of teaching, whether they offer a chance to intercalate, offer dissection, or early clinical contact. It's not only important to show your interest in studying medicine, but also your interest in the medical school. Finally, keep up to date with NHS hot topics, and read up on ethics. Interviewers not only test your interest in medicine but also whether you are suited to medicine, so demonstrating your knowledge on the NHS and the healthcare environment is key. Good resources include the GMC Good Medical Practice, and Tomorrow's Doctors which can be found online. BBC news and the BMJ also have healthcare related articles which are very useful. Be aware of the 4 ethical principles - Beneficence, Non Malificence, Autonomy and Justice. Interviews also test communication skills, team working abilities and empathy, so remember to keep calm and be yourself, as you will best demonstrate these skills through your personality. First impressions matter, so remember to smile and be courteous! Good luck on your interview!