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Temple University School of Medicine

Philadelphia, PA

Allopathic Medical Schools | Public Non-Profit

Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 32% of interviews, indicating it is moderately regarded. They found the interview mixed with a low stress level, and felt they did well.
⭐ Overall Impressions

How did the interview impress you?

Most respondents felt positively about their interview.

What was the stress level of the interview?

Most respondents rated their interview as low stress.

How you think you did?

Most respondents thought they performed well at the interview.

How do you rank this school among ALL other schools?

Most respondents rank this school above all other schools.

How do you rank this school among other schools to which you've applied?

Most respondents rank this school above other schools they applied to.
0 = Below, 10 = Above
💬 Interview Questions

What is one of the specific questions they asked you?

The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools include scenarios involving ethical dilemmas, discussions on healthcare as a privilege or right, reflections on personal failures, opinions on healthcare system improvements, motivations for pursuing medicine, and inquiries about specific experiences, strengths, weaknesses, and future aspirations. Many responses also reference Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) format and nondisclosure agreements, indicating a structured and confidential interview process in some instances.

What was the most interesting question?

Students said most interesting question asked at Temple University School of Medicine discussed a wide range of topics including the biggest healthcare issues, personal interests like favorite fruits, challenges in healthcare systems, disparities in life expectancy, connecting with different populations, favorite brain parts, and experiences with underserved groups. While some responses hinted at an MMI format with nondisclosure agreements, many questions focused on personal experiences, motivations for medicine, and reflections on healthcare improvements.

What was the most difficult question?

Students said most difficult question asked at Temple University School of Medicine discussed a wide range of topics including ethical dilemmas, healthcare system comparisons, personal reflections, and career motivations. While no specific pattern emerged, the responses indicate that interviewees faced diverse challenges such as discussing ethical scenarios, addressing academic performance, and clarifying motivations for pursuing medicine.
🤝 Interview Format and Logistics

How long was the interview?

Most respondents had an interview of 20 - 30 minutes.

How many people interviewed you?

Most respondents were interviewed by 1 person.

What was the style of the interview?

Most respondents had a one-on-one interview.

What type of interview was it?

Most respondents had an open file interview.

Was this interview in-person or virtual?

Most respondents had a virtual interview.
Data includes both pre- and post-COVID interviews.

Where did the interview take place?

Most respondents were interviewed at the school.
📍 On-Site Experience

Who was the tour given by?

Tours were most commonly given by a Student

How did the tour guide seem?

Most tour guides were enthusiastic about the school.

How do you rank the facilities?

Most respondents rank the facilities as above average.

What is your in-state status?

Most respondents rank the facilities as below average.

What were your total hours spent traveling?

Most respondents spent 2-3 hours traveling to the interview.

What was your primary mode of travel?

Most respondents traveled by airplane to the interview.

About how much did you spend on room, food, and travel?

Most respondents spent less than $100.

Where did you stay?

Most respondents stayed either Hotel or at a hotel.

What is the name of the hotel you stayed in?

How would you rate the hotel?

Most respondents rated their hotel as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great

Would you recommend the hotel?

Most respondents would recommend their hotel.

What is your ranking of this school's location?

Most respondents rate the school location as average.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great

What is your ranking of this area's cultural life?

Most respondents rate the area’s cultural life as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great

What are your comments on where you stayed?

No responses
✅ Interview Preparation and Impressions

How is the friendliness of the admissions office?

Most respondents said the admissions office was friendly.

How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?

Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.

How did you prepare for the interview?

Applicants commonly prepared for the interview by reviewing their application materials, practicing mock interviews, researching the school through its website, and utilizing resources like SDN for common interview questions and feedback. Many also engaged in discussions with current students, focused on health care and ethical issues, and tailored their responses to align with the school's mission and programs.

What impressed you positively?

Applicants were overwhelmingly impressed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at the school, with a focus on community, collaboration, and support among students and faculty. The new facilities, emphasis on early clinical exposure, diverse patient population, and commitment to service and underserved communities were highlighted as positive aspects that stood out during the interviews and tours. Suggestions for improvement were minimal, with most applicants expressing high levels of satisfaction with the school's environment and offerings.

What impressed you negatively?

Applicants commonly expressed negative feedback about the disorganization and lack of structure during the interview day, including waiting times and insufficient activities, as well as poor communication from the admissions office. Concerns were also raised about the school's location in a rough neighborhood, outdated facilities, high tuition costs, and uninterested or unprepared interviewers. Suggestions included improving organization, communication, facilities, and interviewer engagement, as well as addressing safety and neighborhood issues to enhance the overall applicant experience.

What did you wish you had known ahead of time?

Most applicants expressed a desire to have known in advance about the relaxed and conversational interview style at Temple University, as well as practical tips such as bringing comfortable shoes for walking during the tour and being prepared for potential delays in parking and transportation. Many also highlighted the positive aspects of the school, like the welcoming atmosphere and the commitment to clinical medicine in an urban setting.

What are your general comments?

Applicants generally found the interview experience at Temple to be relaxed and conversational, with positive interactions with faculty, staff, and students. Some highlighted the progressive and supportive environment of the school, while others mentioned concerns about the neighborhood and facilities. The students were described as happy and diverse, and the financial aid presentation was informative. There were mixed opinions about the interviewers, with some having challenging experiences and others having more laid-back interactions. Overall, the school seemed to leave a generally positive impression on most applicants.
  • I could not have asked for a better interview experience. This interview made me really want to go to Temple.
  • Overall really good impression
  • The day went pretty well even though it was virtual. Not crazy stressful. Everyone was very nice.
  • Great program!
  • The SIMs activity is really low-key. Just be prepared to ask some generally questions and actively listen.

What are your suggestions for the admissions office?

Applicants commonly suggested that the admissions office should improve organization and communication, provide more information in advance, offer activities or resources for downtime during the interview day, and address issues with the interview scheduling process and student host program.