Blog Archives

Read the Fine Print

Medical School ApplicationA few years ago, a medical school applicant told me the following story:

This pre-med decided to write follow up notes to all the schools at which he had interviewed, usually a good idea. However, he was upset to receive a brusque note from one of the institutions telling him that a) he should have read their policies; they do not allow post-interview contact and b) he was rejected from the school.

I found the school’s note pretty severe, and I strongly suspect the post-interview contact was not related to his rejection. (As an aside, he successfully and happily matriculated at another school.) But this story is a reminder that it’s important to read institutions’ policies about post-interview contact. Most places welcome written updates, but it’s essential to confirm before you send.

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Difficult Interview Questions: Learning to Hit a Curveball out of the Park

Check out my latest Student Doctor Network® article on how to navigate tough medical school and residency interview questions.

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Medical School and Residency Interviews: Let Your Story Show Your Glory

With medical school and residency interview seasons approaching, it’s critical that you create a strategy to optimally manage the process. Remember that interviews are a persuasive endeavor – not simply a chance to introduce yourself. You need to use examples of your accomplishments to convince the interviewer of your worthiness.

Take a look at this short piece I wrote to get you on the right track fast.

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You Never Get a Second Chance to Blow a First Impression

I have received a lot of questions about interview attire; I have two rules to guide applicants:

1. Do not be noticed for your clothes. You want to be remembered for your accomplishments, not your attire. Years later, I still remember the applicant who arrived in a Bugs Bunny tie. I also recall the applicant who arrived in jeans. (He packed his interview clothes, checked his luggage, his bags were lost, and he had nothing else to wear for his early morning interview. Keep your clothes with you – carry-on.)

2. Be comfortable. No heels that are so high you are in too much pain to take the tour. No coat so light – but stylish! – that you can’t walk out of the building.

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Can’t Get Enough of those Med School and Residency Interview Tips

For more useful medical school and residency interview tips, check out my latest Varsity Tutors guest blog here.

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About Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Finkel is a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Medical School. On completing her residency at Harvard, she was asked to
stay on as faculty at Harvard Medical School and spent five years teaching at the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital.
She was appointed to the Assistant Residency Director position for the Harvard Affiliated
Emergency Medicine Residency where she reviewed countless applications, personal statements and resumes. Read more

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Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the White Coat Investor podcast:

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the FeminEm podcast: