San Antonio, TX
Allopathic Medical Schools | Public Non-Profit
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 23% of interviews, indicating it is highly 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 revolve around personal integrity, overcoming challenges, demonstrating leadership, explaining motivations for pursuing medicine, discussing experiences in service and research, sharing interests and hobbies, and envisioning future goals in healthcare. Some respondents also mentioned scenarios involving ethics, cultural sensitivity, and handling stress, while others highlighted questions about specific essays or experiences mentioned in their applications. The variety of questions reflects a holistic approach to assessing candidates' character, experiences, and suitability for medical school.
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Asked about a time I had to adapt to cultural change/shock and changing my communication style.
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Asked about my service activities
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Talk about what integrity means to you.
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Tell me about your greatest challenge.
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Tell me about yourself.
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What does integrity mean to you? Tell me about a time you had to show integrity.
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Give me an example of when you showed Integrity
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How will your background in [something in my Personal statement] serve you
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tell me about a time you overcame an unforeseen circumstance
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Student interviewer mostly asked questions about or wanted elaboration upon my activities.
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What are some of your interests?
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What is your definition of integrity? Tell me about a time when your integrity was challenged.
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It sounds like you really impacted ***'s life, can you tell me about someone who has impacted your life and why?
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Tell me a story about how you showed your integrity?
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Tell me about a time you had to manage an unforeseen challenge?
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Tell us about a time you overcame a challenge and how
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Tell us about a time you showed integrity, what does integrity mean to you?
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Why Medicine
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Tell me about a time a relationship between you and another impacted the other person positively
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Tell me about a time you accomplished a goal you had with a team
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Tell me about how you decided on medicine.
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Doctors have to communicate complex ideas not only to patients but often to other people in their rooms like the family. Tell me about your experiences of communicating complex ideas to a lay audience.
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Integrity is important to the profession of medicine. Tell me what Integrity means to you and about a time you either struggled to maintain Integrity or how you exemplified it.
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tell me about yourself
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Patient interactions
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Strengths and weaknesses
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A classmate got hammered and lost his textbook with extensive notes. You have the notes in your textbook because you were responsible and didn't lose it/get hammered before the exam. What would you do?
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An ethnic professor uses a slang term to refer to his own race. A student in the lecture gets offended. Would it be right for the student to report the professor to the academic dean>
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MS4: This is entirely to see if you'd be a good fit with the culture here. You'll basically guide this entire interview. What would you like to talk about? (I ended up asking him about Long culture, balancing a family and medicine, and some generic stuff)
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Tell me about your research experience
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What do you feel are some of the strengths you would bring to the class?
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What would you do if you caught a classmate cheating?
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Tell me about your research.
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Why our school?
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What do you like to do in your free time?
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What leadership activities have you been a part of?
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What's the biggest misconception Americans have about your culture? (URM)
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Asked about my TMDSAS essays and to expand on what I wrote
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How have you been a leader?
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What research do you do? (Only after I briefly mentioned my research)
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Tell me about some of your community service.
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Why medicine.
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Tell me about your family
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Tell me about your major and what made you choose it?
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What was your favorite class in college?
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How do you deal with challenges?
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How would you deal with conflict so that it doesn't affect patient care?
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What are your greatest strengths?
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What is a current event that you feel is important, and why?
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He set up a few scenarios to find out more about my personality and my intrapersonal skills
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What kind of MCAT scores do you have? What about your grades?
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Where do you see yourself in 15 years?
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Do you have any regrets in life?
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What specialty do you see yourself going into?
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Would you say your life has been easy?
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How do you de-stress/what do you do for fun?
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Tell me about your background/family/personal statement. What have you done since graduation?
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What specific volunteer experiences have you had?
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Do you think you want to go into pediatrics or work with adults?
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If you couldn't go into medicine, what would you do?
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What is your favorite movie?
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Tell me about some of your leadership experiences. How do you think they will help you in being a doctor?
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Tell me about your shadowing experiences. What were your favorites?
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What do you like to do in your free time? How do you de-stress?
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What did you do since graduating?
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What kind of leadership position have you done?
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Why medicine?
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Do you have any Questions for me?
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Tell me about yourself? Tell me about your research experience? your work experience?
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Who do you think has influenced the world the most in terms of progress within last hundred yeras or so?
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Tell me about an instance in which you demonstrated integrity.
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Tell me about an instance in which you demonstrated maturity.
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Why do you want to be a physician?
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Tell me about yourself (both interviewers asked this)
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What are your biggest strength/weaknesses?
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What do you do for yourself whenever you get overwhelmed with stress?
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What are some of the programs specific to UTHSC SA that attracted you to the school. What is unique about the school that made you choose it.
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What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses and how will they help you as a physician?
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Mostly they were just general questions about my motivation and a lot of questions referring to my essays
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What was the hardest thing you've had to do?
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What was your biggest mistake?
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How do you handle stress?
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Tell me about the leadership council you served on?
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What is your greatest strength and weakness?
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If you could have dinner with any three people, who would they be?
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What do you like about yourself? What do you not like about yourself?
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Why UTHSCSA?
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What are three of your strengths?
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What can I tell the admissions committee about you that makes you stand out?
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What is your greatest weakness?
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If there was no medicine, what would you do as a career?
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Tell me about your research experiences.
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Tell me about your volunteer experiences.
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Do you have any specific information I can share with the admissions committee?
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What is your greatest achievement?
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What volunteer experience can you tell me about?
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How is new medical knowledge created? / Do you have a specific interest to guide you as you enter the medical profession (e.g., research)? / How sure are you that you want to enter the field of oncology? / Do you have any other interests besides oncology that you'd consider looking into? Which?
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Why did you major in x (I was a lib arts major)? / Give an example of both a strength and a weakness of yours. / Give an example of when you faced adversity and what you did about it? / How did you decide you wanted to be a doctor? / Do you have any relatives that are doctors (do you know what it's like to be a doctor)?
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Give me three words that characterize what's best in you?
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Who's the most influential person in your life?
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Why medical school?
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About My Internships
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About my reasons to become a doctor
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About the state of healthcare
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Explain to me topic X of your personal statement.
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Tell me about your leadership experiences both medically and non-medically.
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What are your three best characteristics and why?
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Have you read any good books lately?
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What do you think of the school and the students?
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(more questions about time abroad)
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tell me a little about yourself
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tell me about your time abroad
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I'm in clinical research, and the interviewer asked me to discuss the one of the drugs I mentioned.
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Why did you choose this school?
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You've been up for 30 hours, it's the night before Thanksgiving and you will not be able to make it home to see your family. Also, you are treating a belligerent drunk that is spitting in your face. How do you deal the situation?
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How did you end up in Texas?
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What are your strengths?
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Why not veterinary medicine?
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Where do you see yourself working in 10 years? What kind of practice would you like?
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Why Texas?
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What was the happiest moment of your life? The worst one?
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What was your greatest success? Your greatest failure?
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Why do you want to be a doctor?
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Have you ever had any clinical experience?
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What do you think your best quality is; and what is your worst quality, and what would you do to fix it?
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Who in your life has been a great influence upon your character?
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Tell me about any mentors you had
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What type of leadership activities have you had?
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Do you think you will continue volunteer work after school is over?
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Tell me about your parents.
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What did you want to be prior to making a choice to become a physician?
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What do you like about this medical school?
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Why do you want to go to medical school?
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Will you continue to do research when you are in med school?
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Descibe who has a positive influence on you.
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Why San Antonio?
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Tell me about your family.
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Whats an important issue in health care?
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How do you plan on maintaining your grades and a social life in medical school?
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Tell me something about yourself other than what is in your personal statement.
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describe how you've dealt with failure in your life?
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tell me about your senior thesis
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what would you need to have to built an ideal medical school.
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Describe a difficult time in your life.
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How do you deal with stress?
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How would you deal with patients that had different beliefs and values from you?
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What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? What kind of community do you want to serve?
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What would you do if you could not be a doctor?
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Describe your ideal medical school?
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How will your travels help you become a better doctor?
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If one of your patients died? Would you personally go tell the family and send somebody else?
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Talked about some of my research.
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Think of someone who you look up to and knows you well. What would they say about you? (kind of like give me 5 adjectives that describe you)
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Who has the most positive influence on you?
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Whom do you have the most positive influence on? How/Why?
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If you don't get in anywhere this year, then what next?
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Tell me about yourself?
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What are some things you do to handle stress?
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Who are you? Tell me about yourself.
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Who besides your parents has been a role model for you? Why?
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How do you judge whether one med school is better than another?
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tell me about your research
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What clinical experiences have you had?
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My other interview just talked to me. In my opinion, the best way to figure out if someone is right for your school...see what they're like when relaxed.
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Questions about my personal statement and discussions following that. Most of them were along these lines.
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You have obviously excell in your leadership ability. What would you tell a protege or someone aspiring to your position was the most important skill or personality trait that attributed to your ability and success as a leader?
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How do you feel about death?
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What are you interested in doing?
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What do your parent do?
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Name 3 strengths (also weaknesses).
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How did a Communication/English major become interested in medicine?
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What do you envision yourself doing 15 years from now?
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Why should you be a doctor?
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Explain your leadership roles.
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What do you think will be the most difficult part of medical school?
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What has been your most stressful situation?
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Problems of healthcare system
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Tell me how you got to be in this seat. Talk about your pre-med experience.
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What do you do for fun?
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What do you rely on for strenght duuring stressful periods
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What is your favorite subject
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What is the most difficult thing you've encountered in your life?
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You seem happy in engineering, why are you leaving it?
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Tell me about _______ (fill in essay topic).
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What is the role of religion in medicine?
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Why medicine/Why San Antonio?
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What was it like plaing college football?
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How will you balance med school with your social life?
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What are some leadership roles you've had?
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What are your experiences in the healthcare industry so far?
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Both interviews started off with above question, rest flowed as a conversation, was wonderful to talk to my interviewers.
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have you had any difficult experiences?
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what are your hobbies/what do you like to do?
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Did you apply to the DO program?
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What are the differences between the UK healthcare system and the US system.
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Why do an MPH before the MD?
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Tell me about your sister (from essays).
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What are your weaknesses?
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What specialty do you want to do?
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If you weren't going to be doing medicine, what would you do?
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Tell me about your current research.
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Who are your role models?
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What do I like to do in my spare time?
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What's my MCAT score? (This was a closed file interview... I'm not sure if he was supposed to ask that question at all)
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What's the biggest issue in healthcare, and what's the solution to solve it?
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Tell me something about you that you would like to improve/that you don't like.
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What do you do in your spare time?
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What is the most difficult experience you have had in your life?
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Give three characteristics about yourself.
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How did you pick your undergrad institution?
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So, what brought you all the way out from Texas?
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What is your biggest strength? Your biggest weakness?
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How long have you been in the U.S.?
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Tell me about your abroad studies in Italy.
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Tell me about yourself. (They are only given your personal statement, nothing else)
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What are your strengths and weaknesses?
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Where do you see yourself in ten years?
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Have you ever followed up on any case studies that you've been involved in?
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What do you see as some major problems in healthcare today?
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What type of setting do you see yourself practicing in ten years in the future?
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What does your family think about you going into medicine?
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Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
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Describe your support group.
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What do you mean by rural health advocate?
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What do you like about our school?
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What don't you like about our school?
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You've had a lot of experience in surgery-- would you consider primary care?
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What would you do if you were drafted by Major League Baseball and if you were accepted into med school?
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Why do you think the medical profession is right for you?
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If you could never be a Dr. what would you be?
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strength's / weaknesses
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Do you *really* want to be a small-town doctor? (This question offended me greatly. Yeah, I'm sincere, that's why I wrote my whole essay on it. Ass.)
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Do you have any questions? (I was asked this about five times.)
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Why in the hell did you move to Houston?
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What qualities do you possess that will make you a good physician? What do you need to improve upon?
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How did you decide on medicine as a career?
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Why do you rank School X over School Y? (During my stress interview.)
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same stuff
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Do you have any interest in research?
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Tell me a little about yourself.
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What is your greatest strength and greatest weakness?
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Tell me about your study-abroad experience in France.
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Why San Antonio, why TX?
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Convince me that you have what it takes to really care about your patients.
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do you have some thoughts on what you want to specialize in?
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talk to me about a couple of current major health issues.
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Have you seen blood?
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Where else have you interviewed?
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What are the most pressing problems in medicine today?
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Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?
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Tell me about some of your role models.
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What else can I tell the Admissions Committee about you that will help you stand out?
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What would you do if you don't get into medical school this year?
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What types of things do you like to do for fun?
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Who's someone that has made a significant impact in your life and why?
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more of a convo
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What are some of your leadership experiences?
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What was one failure and how did you overcome it?
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What personal quality do you think is most important in order for a doctor to form strong relationships with patients?
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What will change in medicine in 10 years?
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Do you want to move back to Texas? (I moved away from Texas for undergrad and grad school)
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How would you describe your interview style?
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What was your greatest disappointment?
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Where do you see yourself in 10-15 years?
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You'll be practicing in 10 years, what do you think will be some of the major problems in medicine?
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Why would you be uniquely qualified for this school?
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What do you like to do for fun?
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What made you want to decide to be a doctor
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What was your greatest accomplishment
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What are your long-term goals as a physician and how will they benefit society?
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What aspect of UTHSCSA is most attractive to you?
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What experience has taught you the most about medicine?
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How did his absence affect you?
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Tell me about your father?
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What was New Mexico like?
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What are the advantages and disadvantages of a career in medicine?
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Why medicine? Why UTHSCSA?
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Name three adjectives to describe yourself.
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What qualities do you think are important in a leader?
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How do you think your research fits in with the population in San Antonio?
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What made you decide to go into medicine?
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Why didn't you get a PhD?
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Describe a strength/weakness of yours.
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What if you don't get in to medical school?
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Who is your role model?
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What hobbies do you have that you want to keep doing during medical school?
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Why was studying abroad so significant for you?
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Anything else i should know about you before I talk with the admiss. comm.?
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What is the current medical issue?
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What medical experiences have you had
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Why Univeristy of Penn for college?
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How is your relationship with your parents? (the interviewer was a psychiatrist)
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My first interviewer had a list of "Ten Interview Questions" (which we have all practiced on) that he asked directly.
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What will be the biggest problem facing you as a medical student and again as a physician?
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"Ok I have to do this because they make me, even though I don't want to... what sort of leadership roles did you have?"
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Basic stuff- Tell me about your research.
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Any questions for me? (be sure to have at least a couple questions prepared to ask)
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How and when did you decide to become a doctor?
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Tell me how you deal with stress.
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cultural questions(they want diversity)
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personal statement discussion
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tell me about yourself stuff
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tell me about your music
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tell me about your public health volunteer experience
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what do you do for fun
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"Have you done any academic work since you graduated from your undergraduate institution?"
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"Tell me about your life from birth, but don't get all the way to college. I don't want to hear about anything academic."
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"What other schools are you applying to?" He said he thought it was a good idea when I said I was applying to numerous schools. "The more times you pull the trigger, the more likely you are to hit your target." I thought that was funny.
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In SOCIETY's opinion, what is the purpose of the government subsidizing $200,000 into a 16 year education for a doctor, when PAs and FNPs will be the primary care physicians of the future?
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What life experiences have you had that have led you to make the decision that becoming a doctor is the right life choice for you?
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What speciality will you pursue to make sure you're not "phased out"?
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Did you enjoy London (I studied abroad)?
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What do you like to do in your spare time?
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How often do you attend religious services (asked as part of a discussion on instilling spirituallity in kids)?
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Where would you want to practice medicine?
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Describe your research.
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What is one important characteristic for a doctor to have?
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Why do you want to go into medicine?
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All very standard - tell me about yourself.
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Why medicine? Why now?
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Tell me about yourself, other standard stuff
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Why did you pursue a MPH before applying to medical school?
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Why medicine? Why public health? What specialty are you considering?
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What is the difference between a Nurse Practicioner and a Family Practicioner?
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What was your biggest failure?
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Why would you dedicate over 10 years to be a doctor, when you can be a nurse in only 3 years and do the same things as a doctor? For example, nurses can deliver babies.
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Tell me about yourself. (I've always hated open-ended questions like this)
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Why more school? What is the goal of all of this studying? Will it end at medical school?
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Talk to me about being a listener.
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Tell me about an obstacle you overcame.
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What seperates good physicians from bad ones.
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Tell me how you came to think about medicine, what you've done to get to this point and what you hope to do in the future
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Who has influenced you in your desire to be a doctor?
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How did you know you wanted to be a physician?
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Tell me about X (from personal statement).
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What outside, non-academic interests do you have?
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Describe your personal integrity?
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How do you think your personal communication skills compare to others?
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What is your motivation to enter medicine: give me pros and cons.
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Does the fact that your family live here influence your decision to want to come here.
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Tell me about yourself. Why do you want to be a doctor? Do you know what specialty you would like to go into?
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Asked about work experiences.
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What would you do if you did not get in to medical school?
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Why do you want to be a doctor? What field of medicine do you want to practice?
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Describe your volunteer experiences.
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Is anyone in your family a physician?
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Tell me about your leadership experiences
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What is the most important quality a physician should have?
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What do you think the best aspects and the worst aspects of a career in medicine will be?
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What sort of leadership experience have you had?
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Why did you not want to become an NP instead?
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What do you think about euthenasia, stem cell research and HIPPA?
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What was the happiest/saddest day of your life?
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What's your favorite health care system: HMO, PPO, Point-of-Service, or socialized medicine?
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What have you done to expose yourself to medicine?
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Give me a success and a failure in your life
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Name one person in history who you think did alot to affect the course of history?
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What do you do outside of studying?
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Tell me about your family?
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What hobbies do you enjoy?
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I don't recall. It was mainly conversational information exchange.
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Where will you be in 10 years?
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Why medicine and why now? (nontraditional student)
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How do you work in a group and make sure that responsibility is shared equally?
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how do you unwind?
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what field of medicine do you want to enter?
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What field you want to specialize in?
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where do you yourself in ten years.
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Are you still interested in radiology? (from my personal statement)
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What position did you play in high school basketball?
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Why did you go to UT since you are from LA?
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Identify your biggest strength and weakness.
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Talk to me for ten minutes about something you are sort of an expert on.
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Do you think you would accept yourself if you were on the committee? why?
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How should we pay for universal healthcare?
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If you could fix the nation's healthcare system, what would you do? What do you think of compulsory physician service for underserved areas?
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What is the biggest problem facing healthcare today?
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considering all you do, when/how do you find time to relax
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what are your weaknesses
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explain sucha nd such activity.
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how will being a woman impact your medical career - what do you want to give/gain to and from medicine.
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what is an example of your integrity.
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How have I exposed myself to medicine?
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Strengths/Weaknesses
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What kind of leadership do I have?
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How would your best friend describe you?
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Tell me your feelings about the situation currently in Iraq.
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Do you know what your life will be like in medical school and afterwards?
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When did you discover that you wanted to become a physician?
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So, the military huh?
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What else have you done?
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What do you do to decompress?
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What interests you about San Antonio (not why do you want to come to this medical school)?
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What are a couple of thigns I should write down in your evalution that you would want the admissions committee to read?
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What motivates you?
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Why did I choose my undergraduate school?
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have you thought about what specialty you want to go into?
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so... why medicine? (this must be in the interviewer's handbook. because i have gotten that question at all 7 of my interviews)
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what is your greatest weakness? and how has it hurt you?
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What have you done to expose yourself to the medical field? (Clinical experience, research, shadowing, etc.)
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What teamwork have you done?
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see above
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Tell me about yourself. (closed file)
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What kind of medicine do you want to practice?
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Tell me about XYZ experience.
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What is one quality that stands out in you?
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Why did you pick your major?
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Why did you choose psychology as your major?
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Why do you want to come to UT San Antonio?
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What do you think about the state of health care
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What was the most shocking thing you found when you went away to college
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why did you chose medicine
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Why UTSA? What would you like to know about UTSA?
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Why do you want to come to San Antonio?
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IF you get accepted to medical school, how will you handle everything that you're going to face during those four years? (for example, personal and academic hardships, stress, etc.)
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What area of medicine are you interseted in?
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What did you like about college?
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What are you looking for in a medical school?
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Why the career change?
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My first interview asked me specific questions about my major, my family, and even specific things I had written in my personal statement. I don't think the second interviewer had even looked at my file, because not once did he look at my personal statement during the interview, and all he asked me were very general questions, like "summarize yourself in just a few minutes" or "tell me why you like San Antonio." He even asked me if I spoke Spanish (there are a lot of Mexicans in San Antonio, and they make up a big percentage of the patients that you will see in your clinical years.)
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How do you think you'll apply your humanities studies to a career in medicine.
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What are the chances that if we accept you, you'll come to this school? Why?
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What kind of doctor do you want to be?
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Where are you from?
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Why do you want to become a doctor?
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What qualities do you have to make you a good physician
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What specialty are you interested in
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Where do you see yourself in 10 years (asked by both interviewers)
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What are your hobbies?
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What type of clinical experiences have you had? Were they paid or volunteer?
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He talked about his work.
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He talked about how the medical center is not downtown.
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He talked about overcrowding in free clinics downtown.
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What makes you a good candidate for medical school? Conversely, what weaknesses do you have?
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What specialty are you interested in?
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explain some of your clinical experiences
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what field of medicine are you interested in
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how would you react if you did poorly on a test or subject? like if you got a C in anatomy, for example?
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Why not be a PA, NP, when they could do the same things as a MD?
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you seem really mature, what do you think has made you so mature?
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What are your outside reading interests? - led to a long discussion of conservatism, liberalism, death penalty...
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What classes have you taken outside of the biomedical engineering curriculum?
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What do you see as some possible solutions to these problems you brought up? from the World Health Organization question
-
Do I have personal/professional leadership experiences and what were they?
-
What draws me to the medical field? (Why do I want to be a doctor?)
-
What have I learned from personal/professional challenges?
-
(Same as above) Why do you still want to be a doctor given all of the things against it nowadays.
-
Did you have any regrets in your undergraduate school?
-
How did you change your goals, classwork, etc. when you decided on medicine?
What was the most interesting question?
Students said most interesting question asked at Long School of Medicine - University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio discussed a wide range of topics, including hypothetical scenarios, personal reflections, and views on healthcare. While the questions varied, some respondents mentioned standard interview questions focusing on personal experiences, ethical dilemmas, career aspirations, and perspectives on healthcare. Notably, there were references to MMI format interviews with questions related to impact, career choices, and challenges, possibly under a nondisclosure agreement.
-
Integrity
-
All were pretty standard interview questions, no ethics questions or trick questions. Mostly asked me to elaborate on my activities listed in my primary app.
-
the integrity one -
-
Would you consider yourself to be a positive person? Tell me about someone who you impacted positively.
-
Tell me about a time you improved a process.
-
They asked me to discuss a time I influenced someone else.
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What specialty would you choose if you had to pick today?
-
Tell me what you think of our current healthcare situation, the rising cost of care and our attempts to get everyone on insurance etc.
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What's your plan? What do you want to do with your entire career?
-
All questions were pretty normal.
-
If I was a genie and you could grant you one of 2 wishes, which would you choose: Never make a mistake in your medical career or that every patient you have fully understands what problem they're having and how to take care of it?
-
I was asked, since I'm interested in Pediatrics, what type of pediatric community service event I would be interested in creating and what would I do.
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Tell me about a skill you learned from your research project that will benefit you as a medical student/doctor?
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Why would I want you to be my doctor?
-
What has been your greatest challenge?
-
Tell me about a good book that you've read recently.
-
What is your favorite thing about yourself?
-
Have you considered teaching? (after talking about TA-ing and academic medicine)
-
If the master plan was to happen (i.e. you get into school and become the type of doctor you want to be), what will it be like in 20 years?
-
What are three weaknesses that you have? and Elaborate on each.
-
What is the biggest problem in healthcare today?
-
What are the best/worst things about being a doctor?
-
How will your strengths and weaknesses help you as a physician
-
What do you do for fun?
-
Do you break bricks and boards? (I teach martial arts).
-
If there was no medicine, what would you do as a career?
-
What style of leadership do you follow?
-
How is new medical knowledge created?
-
Tell me about yourself
-
If you had a magic-wand, what would you change about your past academically?
-
If you had an unlimited amount of money to build a medical school, what would it look like?
-
asked me to name 3 things (A,B,C) i have problems with or need to work on. then asked me what would i tell someone else who has problem A to help them deal with it/get better at it.
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What was your "I do" moment? That is, when did you decide to commit to the study of medicine?
-
If an uninsured, poverty-stricken patient comes to you needing immediate health care, what do you do, and why?
-
None were particularly interesting.
-
Are you related to Gandhi?
-
Medical school and the life of a physician can be very lonely. Nobody in your life understands what you are going to go through - not your wife, not your kids, nobody. Have you ever gone through anything in your life that you think will prepare you for that kind of stress?
-
Tell me about any mentors you had
-
None
-
Do you think you'll be able to live in San Antonio?
-
I have to write a recommendation about you, what should I say?
-
What could I do to make you want to come here?
-
What about medical school could cause concern?
-
mainly conversational, plus some standard why medicine type questions
-
What do you think about the state of healthcare in america?
-
Hypothetical question. Would you rather be a dumb person surrounded by smart people or a smart person surrounded by dumb people?
-
Have you seen the show Scrubs? What would you do if you had Dr. Cox as a supervisor?
-
Hypothetical situation: You have an infant in your care who needs an operation to save his life but the family refuses to have the procedure done. What do you do?
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So, how come you are not in medical school already? (I started college early)
-
none.
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If you could build your own medical school, what would it be like?
-
The most interesting aspect was that the interviewers seemed to have been matched to the interviewees - my interviewers had both been nontraditional students at the school, and stayed on for residency and as faculty. Another girl said she was a psych major who was paired with a psychologist, and two Asian students were paired with VietNamese interviewers.
-
No really interesting questions in my interview, but one person was asked about prevailing ethics problems in medicine, and then the interviewer argued that black-market organs would have been a much better topic than the balance between keeping someone on life support for an extended period of time and their right to die...I thought that was a bit odd.
-
Name a person in history that you would like to meet.
-
See below.
-
How did a Communication/English major become interested in medicine?
-
If your mother was here, how would she describe your personality?
-
If president Bush made you the queen for a day, what would you change about health care?....This was a follow-up question to a discussion. (2nd interviewer)
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What can i do to convince you to come here?
-
The interviewer and I discussed making end-of-life decisions.
-
everything was pretty standard, actually
-
What is your philosophy on being a doctor?
-
What do you think will be the most challenging obstacle for you in medical school?
-
if there was a baby that needed a transplant and the parents were jehova's witnesses....
-
Tell me about your thesis research.
-
When you say political and economic barriers to care, what do you mean by political? (from my essay)
-
Nothing that interesting
-
What do I do to handle stress?
-
Nothing. All questions were very standard.
-
How important is ethics to you?
-
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in life?
-
How do you feel about Harligen? I think you would do very well there.
-
If I were a fruit what would I be and why?
-
Are you close to your family?
-
How did you get to be where you are now?
-
Are you a worker bee or a queen bee? I think the person just wanted to know if I was able to take leadership and control of a situation
-
What don't you like about our school?
-
nothing really stood out
-
I had very interesting conversations with my interviewers. If they weren't selected to match my interests, it was a nice coincedence and made it a great experience.
-
What kind of car do you drive?
-
--
-
Did you like the film Madagascar? I liked that film. You probably didn't like that one since you like such high-falutin' films. (8-o! During my stress interview.)
-
pressing issues in medicine
-
What would you do if you could run a medical school for a day?
-
Tell me about your experiences with diversity.
-
a number of questions from both interviewers about my current(non-medical) occupation and how that could give some indication of my capabilities as a doctor.
-
Tell me about your family.
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What have you done to develop leadership characteristics?
-
Questions about my experiences abroad--What was going through your mind when you chose to do that?
-
none really, all the usual
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Questions about my pets
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How would your friends describe you?
-
Why medicine?
-
How would you describe a "successful" medical school?
-
Would you treat a homosexual even though their lifestyle doesn't agree with your religious views?
-
What advice would you give first-year pre-medical students now that you've been through the process?
-
What do you look for in a Medical School
-
Didn't really get a good interesting question.
-
Describe for me a situation that you feel was a success? (which I misunderstood and though he said "sexist", it took me a sec to regain my composure)
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Why do you think so many people from [my culture] emigrated to America? [this was just to start a conversation]
-
How comfortable would you be treating somebody with HIV/AIDS?
-
Who is your role model?
-
What hobbies do you want to keep doing during medical school?
-
What is a personal test you've been thru?
-
basic questions were asked.
-
How is your relationship with your parents? (the interviewer was a psychiatrist)
-
Tell me about backpacking around Europe.
-
Did you ever think about becoming a professional dancer? (in response to my personal essay, the only thing they see before meeting you)
-
Does austin have a lot of homeless people? (In the context of TB testing and Public Health)
-
"Tell me about your life from birth, but don't get all the way to college. I don't want to hear about anything academic."
-
In SOCIETY's opinion, what is the purpose of the government subsidizing $200,000 into a 16 year education for a doctor, when PAs and FNPs will be the primary care physicians of the future?
-
Do enjoy painting with oils or acrylics better? (in referance to my hobbies)
-
How do you define "rural". Tell me about the livestock you had.
-
Most questions were standard. First interviewer had read my personal statement closely and most of his questions came from it. Second interviewer played it by ear but was nice and very interested in my background.
-
usual questions; one interviewer was very interested in what was happening on my undergrad campus
-
Asked about my study abroad experience.
-
Why not treat people like numbers, should we care?
-
Nothing very interesting.
-
What do you think the opportunities for pursing public health are here at UTSA? (I'm currently in a MPH program and is what I plan to pursue as a MD)
-
Can't remember anything too interesting.
-
Where does your compassion come from?
-
Where does your self esteem come from?
-
How have you tested your commitment to medicine?
-
If you could change one thing about your life to improve the quality of your life, what would it be?
-
Not anything too interesting...mostly run-of-the-mill stuff. However, my physician interviewer kept going on about how physicians, PA's and Nurse Practioners are all the same thing. She never asked me what I thought about it.
-
Everything seemed pretty standard, it was really more of a conversation that a stereotypical interview.
-
very generic questions
-
What do you fear most about going to medical school?
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What do you think of the physician's role in politics?
-
If I had a child who was exactly like me in every way, how would I advise her to plan her life in order to be accepted into medical school?
-
What's your favorite health care system: HMO, PPO, Point-of-Service, or socialized medicine?
-
What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome and how?
-
Tell me about your childhood up wntil the age of 18?
-
Do you know if native Americans of the southwest have a flute type instrument in their culture?
-
can't remember any unusual questions. Pretty standard.
-
What do you think will happen with the worldwide AIDS epidemic?
-
How will your studies in engineering benfit you as a physician?
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Why do you want to practice primary care medicine? Why not specialize?
-
Why did you decide to volunteer at [the hospital I volunteered at] instead of [another hospital in the same city]
-
Nothing really *that* interesting
-
What do you think is the biggest healthcare issue today?
-
what would you do if you were asked to perform a procedure on a patient that went against your morals?
-
One interview was fairly relaxed with only a few of the standard questions and the other was a complete conversation that felt nothing like a stressful interview.
-
What would you say to someone who said that AIDS in Africa was a natural result of overpopulation and should not be tampered with?
-
nothing interesting...
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If you were faced with a situation in your future practice contrary to your value system, how would you respond?
-
None really, if you dont get in, what would u do?
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What is the difference, minus length of educational training, between a nurse Practitioner and a female physician?
-
none really, very conversational
-
Nothing, pretty standard questions
-
There are a lot of problems in the medical field today. If you had unlimited power, what would you do to correct them.
-
Do you know what your life will be like in medical school and afterwards?
-
So, the military huh?
-
Considering your interests in patient contact and research, how do you expect to maintain involvement with both as a doctor?
-
Why I chose to go to my undergraduate school (since I was out of state, and the schools are rivals in the Big XII Conference)?
-
where in italy is San Gimingnano?
-
why did you pick chemistry as major in undergrad?
-
None- all the questions were very generic and boring, even though interviewers have been given copies of our personal statements and a summary of out extra-curricular activities.
-
I was asked about my extracurricular.
-
What teamwork have you done?
-
Name a person past or present that has influenced you?
-
Tell me about your childhood.
-
None were really off-the-wall.
-
nothing really too big, just questions about myself, and why medicine. it was basically a conversation about them trying to get to know me.
-
Tell me about some of your experiences.
-
If you were to get in, do you think you would want to be one of the students to go to Harlingen?
-
What was my most important coping skill
-
If healthcare became non-existent tomorrow, what would you do?
-
none, the questions were mostly about what i wrote on my personal statement
-
What would you like people to say about you at a banquet in your honor 50 years from now?
-
None. They were mostly questions about school (since it was closed file, they do not know your GPA or your MCAT when they interview you), family, and aspirations.
-
How do you differentiate between religion and ethics, and how do you think this applies to medicine?
-
What would be your alternate career path if for some reason you were unable to become a doctor?
-
WHat makes you so motivated and determined to succeed?
-
None, No questions were asked other than tell me about yourself. They just talked a alot.
-
What is one thing you fear about medical school?
-
None of the questions were particularly interesting...
-
What would you do if someone in your group does not do her/his share of the work?
-
You are the head of the World Health Organization; what are the problems you feel the WHO should focus on and why?
-
Questions about my personal statement and undergraduate major.
-
How do you plan to use the information you gained in undergraduate coursework to implement it in the contributions you give to medicine?
What was the most difficult question?
Students said most difficult question asked at Long School of Medicine - University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio discussed a wide range of topics including integrity, ethical dilemmas, healthcare challenges, and personal reflections. While some interviews were more conversational, others delved into scenarios such as handling conflicts, addressing healthcare disparities, and envisioning the future of medicine. It appears that the interview format may have included MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) components, as respondents mentioned diverse and thought-provoking questions, possibly under a nondisclosure agreement.
-
“Describe a time you had to change your communication style due to a cultural change/shock”
-
describe a time you showed integrity - I think it is something they ask everyone and I kinda sat there for like 10 seconds bc I had to figure out integrity then find a time I showed it
-
N/A. If you practice the questions on here nothing should be unexpected! :)
-
Tell me a story about how you showed your integrity?
-
A time you showed integrity.
-
N/A all very approachable
-
Tell me what you think of our current healthcare situation, the rising cost of care and our attempts to get everyone on insurance etc.
-
As a physician, how will you provide the optimal care for your patients?
-
Nothing. Long was very focused on making it relaxed/conversational
-
Nothing was particularly difficult.
-
If you have a Jehova's Witness (don't permit blood transfusions) as one of your patients and he/she is bleeding out on the table, what do you do if you have 30sec to decide?
-
The first interviewer I had did not speak at all. He just kept nodding and wanting me to talk the entire time. It threw me off a little since I never had that type of interviewer, but I was able to keep coming up with topics about me to talk about.
-
What is something you are passionate about?
-
What else about you do you want me to tell the admissions committee?
-
How do you manage to work with someone you don't like?
-
None - all were easily answerable/about myself.
-
Describe a time when you had to work with someone that you didn't like and how you handled the situation.
-
Nothing whatsoever. Interviews were SO relaxed/talkative.
-
Where else did you apply and why those schools?
-
Why should we turn you into the world as a physician? What characteristics that you possess would make you a good physician?
-
Tell me about an instance in which your relationship with somebody affected you positively.
-
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
-
What is unique about UTHSC SA besides its curriculum, great faculty, MS stuents and the like that make you want to attend the school.
-
What was your biggest mistake?
-
What is your perception of physicians as a healthcare worker?
-
Interview me for the last five minutes.
-
Nothing too difficult really, I guess the question about what they could tell the committee about me.
-
If there was no medicine, what would you do as a career?
-
What will you look back on as your proudest moment when you are 80?
-
All fairly basic.
-
If you could fix healthcare, how?
-
If you had a magic-wand, what would you change about your past academically? The rest of the questions were pretty straight forward.
-
No hard questions.
-
what are 3 things you have problems with, what do you think will be your biggest obstacle in medical school
-
n/a
-
If an uninsured, poverty-stricken patient comes to you needing immediate health care, what do you do, and why?
-
What makes you stand out among all the other applicants?
-
If you were a doctor and due to a mistake that you made a patient died, how would you deal with it as a doctor? How would you tell the family? How would you interact with your colleagues from that point on?
-
I want you to describe yourself - everything - in one word. (come on... one word?!)
-
Nothing all that difficult.
-
none
-
They asked about my critical thinking skills that I mentioned in my personal statement.
-
I did a lot of diversity studies while I was in college; there were a lot of questions about that.
-
Lots of ethical questions
-
Why do you want to be a doctor?
-
see above -- my first interview was a conversation. The second was a more traditional interview with a lengthy discussion of physician regulation and the problems of providing affordable healthcare.
-
Sum of your past, present, and future in two words.
-
What do you think is one of the biggest problems in health care today?
-
Whom do you have the most positive influence on? Why?
-
None.
-
They were just trying to get to know me... nothing was that difficult.
-
If you could build your own medical school, what would it be like?
-
What leadership experience was the most difficult and why? How was it resolved? What was the outcome?
-
There weren't any real questions - it was all conversation.
-
What do you require in your learning environment to be successful? Describe the most conducive learning environment for you. What about this school indicates that it will provide what you need?
-
Who are you?
-
What are your weaknesses?
-
Who have you had a positive effect on in your community service work?
-
Why should you be a doctor?
-
What is the most important thing that you want the admissions committee to know about you?
-
Tell me about someone you don't respect and how you handle that relationshsip. (Ist interviewer)
-
What is the most difficult thing you've had to deal with in your life?
-
What is the role of religion in medicine?
-
What is your philosophy on being a doctor?
-
Nothing, all were fine, no stumpers.
-
have you had any difficult or conflicting expereinces?
-
Why pursue an MD if you want to do research.
-
PA's give just as good care as primary care physicians, so there's no reason you should go into primary care. So what else do you plan to do?
-
Nothing really that interesting
-
What's the biggest problem I will face as a medical student?
-
Why come here if you have better options?
-
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in life?
-
Tell me about yourself. (There are so mnay ways to go with this question!)
-
What is the most difficult situation you have gone through in your life?
-
What exactly about the medical profession makes you want to be a doctor?
-
Describe a difficult time in your life and explain how you overcame it. Also what you learned from the experience
-
Nothing was too bad
-
What was a difficulty and how did you over come it?
-
--
-
With what other schools have you interviewed? (Also during my stress interview.)
-
tell me about yourself
-
same
-
Have you read any interesting journal articles recently?
-
none were difficult, but they were phrased so that none of my nifty, pre-planned, medi-clone answers would work. i actually had to think. how dare they! both were very skilled at interviewing.
-
Where is medicine headed in ten years?
-
Where do you see yourself in 10 years, both personally and professionally?
-
What are the most pressing problems in healthcare today?
-
What was the hardest thing I've ever had to do? (This one is pretty routine, but always hard for me)
-
What do you think will be your biggest challenge during your first year of medical school?
-
What will you do if you don't get in this year? A relatively easy question but my mind went blank for a sec!
-
What i would do if i didn't get into medical school
-
What ways did you research UTHSCSA?
-
What personal quality do you think is most important in order for a doctor to form strong relationships with patients? I didn't think this was particularly difficult, but I struggled to find the word "trust" for about a minute before he prompted me with the word. It definitely killed my mojo for a sec, but I think I recovered well enough.
-
Once you finally get that acceptance letter, what are you the most afraid of?
-
What is the most altruistic thing you have ever done?
-
You'll be practicing in 10 years what do you think will be some of the major problems in medicine then?
-
(regarding my research) what are the differences between plant and human immune response
-
Null
-
What I was most proud of during my college career?
-
Who was your hero? (He asked me about six different times all in different ways, I ran out of people -you can only say Jesus so many times)
-
What are some disadvantages of a career in medicine?
-
How do you think your research fits in with the population in San Antonio? [a question specific to my personal essay]
-
How well do you handle stress?
-
nothing really
-
Tell me about yourself. (Hard because so vague)
-
Where does ethics fit into med.?
-
What will be the biggest problem facing you as a medical student and again as a physician?
-
What are some problems facing medicine? How do you plan to solve them?
-
Tell me about one of your failures and what you learned from it.
-
What is your biggest disappointment?
-
None were really difficult.
-
What exactly are you looking for to spark your interest in a specific medical school?
-
What is your father's occupation? (simple enough, however my father works internationally and as I attempted to explain, interviewer cut me off and jokingly replied, "you don't know what the hell your father does."
-
Questions about being divorced and raising kids
-
None really.
-
nothing too tough
-
What are some of your weaknesses?
-
What is your biggest flaw?
-
Nothing very difficult, either.
-
It was all pretty standard
-
what is the difference between a nurse practicioner and a family practicioner? (then she started grilling me about how they make the same amount of money and do practically the same thing!)
-
Where do you see insurance playing a role in my practice ten years from now?
-
See above.
-
see above
-
Tell me one event or trial in your life that really tested your character and how you dealt with it.
-
Nothing too difficult...like I said before, everything asked was kind of what I expected.
-
What will be the hardest part of being a physician? What is your goal in life?
-
ditto from above
-
Name one obstacle that you have had to overcome throughout college.
-
The above
-
Nothing especially difficult.
-
same as above
-
It wasn't necessarily the most difficult question but my interviewer asked me what area of medicine I wanted to specialize in and I gave him my answer and he told me that I wasn't experienced enough to know
-
Tell me about yourself?
-
What is and how would you solve the U.S.'s greatest health problem?
-
nothing difficult
-
Have there been role models in your past that have made a significant impact on you?
-
What is an example of a situation where you have been faced with conflict and how have you handled that situation?
-
Why are you interested in becoming a doctor instead of a PA, nurse practitioner, or any other health care giver?
-
what would you do if you were asked to perform a procedure on a patient that went against your morals?
-
What do you think of the political situation of Gibraltar? (I had mentioned it among a list of places I traveled to and visited when studying abroad.)
-
Talk to me for ten minutes about something you are sort of an expert on.
-
How will we pay for universal healthcare?
-
Why not pursue other health careers such as PA or nursing?
-
What are your weaknesses
-
name an expereince lately that has changed your mind about a view you once held.
-
One of my interviewers wanted part A, B, C and on...on almost every question!!
-
What's not included in your application that you'd like to tell the admissions committee about?
-
Both of my interviewers asked me to expand on what I thought were problems in medicine and how I might go about fixing them. I hate this question.
-
If you had unlimited resources and power, what would you do to change the healthcare system today?
-
Tell me about yourself.
-
Explain why you took time off after College when you could have applied to medical school right away.
-
what will you do if you don't go to medical school next year?
-
nothing too bad
-
What about the "darker" side of medicine?
-
What is a personal goal that you want to achieve before you die?
-
no tough questions really.
-
None too difficult...i suppose one was a little iffy where he kept pressing me to elaborate on what were problems in healthcare specific to TX. Didn't seem too thrilled by my response, kept asking "anything else?"
-
None of the questions were difficult!
-
Describe some the most pressing problems in healthcare today and how you would go about solving them.
-
none, really.
-
How do you distinguish a neurological behavioral problem from a simple discipline problem?
-
What doctor is known for performing the first successful open-heart surgery?
-
None - all were easy
-
None were difficult
-
None of the questions were very difficult...
-
If you can tell me one thing that you would want me to remember from your application or this interview, what would it be?
-
Tell about the specific time you knew you wanted to be a physician.
-
How is medical school rewarding?
-
Given all of the reasons why you should not be a doctor anymore (outlandish malpractice premiums, can do exact same things as a PA, NP, etc., low family success) why do you still want to be one?
🤝 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 2 people.
What was the style of the interview?
Most respondents had a one-on-one interview.
What type of interview was it?
Most respondents had a closed 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 4-6 hours traveling to the interview.
What was your primary mode of travel?
Most respondents traveled by automobile to the interview.
About how much did you spend on room, food, and travel?
Most respondents spent less than $100.
What airport did you fly into?
Respondents who flew to the interview generally used San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
-
dfw
-
Virtual interview, so no travel expenses.
-
The closest one
-
San Antonio
-
SAT
-
AUS
Where did you stay?
Most respondents stayed either Hotel or at a hotel.
What is the name of the hotel you stayed in?
-
the school suggested one
-
a B&B
-
Super 8 Motel
-
Studio 6 Medical Center
-
Oak Hills Medical Center Inn and Hotel
-
Oak Hills Medical Center Hotel
-
Oak Hills Med Center Hotel
-
Motel 6
-
Marriott Courtyard
-
Marriott
-
Marriot-Medical
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Marriot Residence Inn
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La Quinta (Wurzbach)
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La Quinta
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Howard Johnson Express near UTSA
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Homewood Suites
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Coutnry Hearth Inn
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Courtyard Marriott
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Courtyard Marriot
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Courtyard Mariott
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Courtyard
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Country Hearth Inn
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Country Hearth
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Best Western Posada Ana Inn
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Best Western Posada Ana (Wurzbach Rd)
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Best Western Medical Center Hotel
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 good.
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?
Most applicants prepared for their interviews by reading their applications, utilizing resources like Student Doctor Network (SDN), reviewing the school's website, and practicing standard interview questions. Many also engaged in mock interviews, read up on healthcare issues, and sought advice from current students to prepare effectively.
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Prepared standard questions, reviewed my app, it was very chill and not stressful.
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Read my primary app, read the SDN interview feedback, read the school website, read the interview day website in depth, watched the videos on their interview day youtube channel, practiced standard interview questions
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sdn lol
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SDN questions, researching the school.
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This SDN thread, practiced interviews with family and friends, practiced many general questions
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SDN, Long SOM resources
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SDN, Dr. Gray's book, University pre-health office materials, reviewing my application
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Read Dr. Ryan Gray's Premed Playbook: Guide to the Medical School Interview. Looked online for common interview questions. Rehearsed answers alone and with family.
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Sdn. read the school's website and mission then took good notes during morning presentations
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Read through lists of general interview questions
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SDN interview feedback, previous interviews.
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Read SDN, looked over my essays, school admissions brochure
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Looked up the school online, brochure online, etc.
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Background of school, motto of UTHSCSA, ask questions from older students
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mock interview, SDN, looked at school website, re-read personal statement/file
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SDN, practice interviews
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SDN, reviewed TMDSAS, browsed UTHSCSA website.
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studentdoctor.net, other med school interviews
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Read interview feedback on SDN, reviewed my application, read up on healthcare reform news.
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Read SDN and looked over my application
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SDN, UTHSCSA website, healthcare books and articles, ethics textbook
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Read here, MSAR, current students at the school.
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SDN, payed close attention to the Dean's presentation.
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propanolol, glycopyrrolate
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Good nights sleep, review MSAR and primary application.
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Read application over again, jotted what I wanted to say the most down, practiced some with my fiance
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I used SDN, read my application, googled and practiced questions, visited my school's career center and practiced with my business communications professor.
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Read my essays, read SDN, made a few lists of my strengths and weaknesses
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Reviewed my personal statement/Common questions
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Mock interviews, read up on healthcare in TX and US. Read about school opportunities.
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SDN, mock interviews, read the schools website, read my personal statement, relaxed.
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SDN interview review questions, read up on the health care system, pored over the website.
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Mock interviews, read school curriculum, SDN, reviewed TMDSAS personal statement and application, briefed myself on some health policy and medical ethics topics, quizzed myself on example interview questions
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Read up on the school, reread my personal statements.
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Read every wikipedia article on healthcare
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Mock Interview, researched the schools web-site, read over my application and research publication, and SDN.
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Read SDN interview feedback, thought about potential questions, practiced answering questions out loud during my commute to work each morning.
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read website, read PS
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Read over my application. Reviewed this site. RELAXED!!!
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Read app, read SDN, read common interview questions
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Re-read my TMDSAS application and essay, read interview advice online, got a good night's sleep.
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reread my application, went over potential interview questions
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SDN, TMDSAS application, bioethics course
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Read SDN Feedback, my TMDSAS app, and info about the school.
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Read personal statement, SDN, mock interview with school
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SDN, read application, relaxed
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Didn't really do anything
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SDN, Washington Ethics Site, the book, ''The Medical School Interview.''
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Read app, looked at previous interview questions
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sdn, bioethics websites, reread my applications and personal statement
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read essay, look over website, talk to current students
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I read over my personal statement and essays (the only thing the interviewers see is yoru personal statemtment and others essays as well as a list of the places you went to school). I also read up on healthcare issues and major eithical questions in medicine.
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SDN, The Medical School Interview book, talked with current MS at school
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SDN, practiced questions by myself. MRSA booklet
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SDN, interview book, read up on health care, re-read personal statement
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SDN, Personal Statement
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It was my second interview and I didn't really.
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SDN, read over my personal statement and browsed the school's website.
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SDN, mock interviews, read a book on interviews by an MD, re-read TMDSAS application, reviewed major facts about the school, formulated some questions to ask both students and teachers, good nights sleep
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SDN feedback, reread PS, waxed the monkey
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Glanced over my essays, good night's sleep.
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I searched this sight, went over my essay and app, and practiced answering common med school interview questions with my parents. I also found a list of medical ethics with questions, scenarios and discussion on the best way to deal with them that was really helpful.
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Reviewed possible questions.
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TMDSAS app, website, sdn interview feedback, reviewed research
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Reviewed my application, used this website.
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Looked over TMDSAS application, studied website, SDN
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SDN, personal statement, school website
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SDN, read school's website, TMDSAS
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SDN,intereview questions,read my personal statement and research stuff.
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Re-read TMDSAS, chatted with alumni who had interviewed candidates there.
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Mock interviews, read my application, tried to relax.
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read my app, newspaper, etc. none of it really mattered though
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read SDN, looked at school website
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SDN, mock interview, reviewed apps
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Mock interview with MDs, read Understanding Health Policy, reading Healthcare Meltdown, read most of UofW Bioethics site, current events, my pending papers.
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this feedback, mock interview, check out this website: http://depts.washington.edu/bioethx/topics/index.html for ethics topics--it really helped!
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Mock intervew with friend.
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SDN--i really should have read over my application again, they really study it.
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Mock interview, thought about questions that could potentially be asked, read over my old research
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nothing
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Read over interview feedback, had answers ready for standard questions (such as, tell me your biggest strength/weakness, etc)
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Look at their website. Look at SDN website.
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Read over my personal statement, checked past SDN interview feedback, & a good night's sleep
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slept well
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Thought up 5 of my best qualities, my strengths, and my weakesses. Also did a brief overveiw of health policy stuff
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I read the interview feedback and the school's website.
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Mock interview with advisor and reading SDN interview reviews
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Read SDN, school website, apps.
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good night of sleep
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Read the website, reviewed my amcas essay because this is all the interviewers had to get to know me before the interview.
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Previous interviews, read UTHSCSA website.
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reviewed feedback and school's website
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SDN, TMDSAS app, school's website, margarita at Mi Tierra
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Read my personal statement, listened closely to presentations and medical school panel.
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Researched school's website, reread TMDSAS application, reviewed HPO interview tips, talked with current students at a mixer the previous night.
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looked at questions on sdn
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SDN, other interviews, read the website, called a friend at the school
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SDN feedback, looking at school's website, talking to some friends who are students
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sdn, talked w/current students, read personal statement 5 times. said the st. francis prayer about 20 times.
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Read about the school's programs, school website
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SDN, Read over my personal statement and application
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SDN, catalog, talked with the students
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SDN, School's Website, MSAR
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SDN, school website, reading over my personal statement
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SDN, read my personal statement, mock interviews
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SDN, friends, mock interviews
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mock interview, SDN, school website, looked over my application
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I read up at SDN, read my personal statement, went to the pre-interview social with some M1 and M2 students the night before. I STRONGLY recommend this! Go there and have a drink with the students, get to know the school, and have a good time!
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sdn, talked to my roommate (who had interviewed at UTSA earlier)
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SDN, read over my essay and research I had done, quizzed with questions by friends
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Read SDN, reviewed my TMDSAS application
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SDN, school website, mock interviews
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reviewed my app, researched the school
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Read up on the school
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Read up on the school.
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Drank a few beers and watched the Astros game.
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SDN, read over personal statement, application
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Read SDN and the school's website.
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Read my application, SDN. Nothing special.
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Read School website
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Read this website, reviewed application, looked through school website
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this website, read school website, personal statement
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SDN, mock interview, other websites
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SDN, school's website
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SDN, School website, went to mixer the night before and talked to med students
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SDN, mock interview, website
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SDN site, school website, read over appl, thought about possible questions
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read website, SDN, application thoroughly
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Looked at school's website
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Read feedback here, read their website, and reviewed my application.
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SDN, talked to students, read as much stuff as I could get my hands on in the week b/w summer school ending and my interview
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Medical school catalogue and my universities feedback notebook.
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SDN, TMDSAS application, other interviews, becoming familiar with healthcare issues
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Read SDN, newspapers and magazines about current health events, and all my essays.
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read this website and my apps, mock interview
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Looked at potencial questions, SDN
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Read healthcare issues, government legislation, my application
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Reviewed SDN, my personal statement, the mission statement of the school, and talked to a friend who had already interviewed there. It was sufficient prep, believe me.
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SDN, thought about my responses to potential questions
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read my personal statement
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Didn't do much. Read the SDN website and piggy-backed off of my experience at other interviews. Relaxed.
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Reviewed personal statement, and this website.
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SDN, school mission statement, prepared answers for expected questions
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Read personal statement...
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Didn't
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Mock interview, talked to med students at night before social.
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Admission books with practice interview questions, school's website, reviewed my application.
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read over my app, read this website, that's about it
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interview feedback, viewbook, my brother went to UTHSCSA so he was my main source of information
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School website, this website, and interview prep books
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I had researched the school online and checked this site. I had my physician friends "interview" me.
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Went over application, looked at student website, read about health care, but jesus not enough for the above question.
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read this site, read my file
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Read my personal statement, read the viewbook, asked students about their interview experience there
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Relaxed, focused, practiced eye contact with a videocam.
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TMDSAS, 2nd app and SDN
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no preparation
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reviewed school website and practice questions from books
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Mock interview, read school website and this website
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Read this site, MSAR.
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Mock interviews and read their website.
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SDN, talked to current medical students, read the schools website.
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usual stuff.
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read about school in MSAR
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read my essay, school website, this website
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read this site, UTSA viewbook
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Personal essay, this website, the school's website
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website, SDN, went to the night before outing (go to it - the students are fantastic) and stayed with a student
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talked with students, SDN, read their website
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read the school's website, read interview feedback, read over my application, mock interviews
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The usual
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Read the school's website, read over my application, studentdoctor.net
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SDN, school website, read application.
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Reviewed the school website, took their virtual tour, went to the pre-interview happy hour.
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Read SDN, looked over my secondary and TMDSAS application
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read through the packet they sent.
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same ol' stuff
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Brushed up on current medical news, SDN, researched school web site.
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read interview feedback, read about the schoool, had a good breakfast
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student handbook, read over my app
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SD network, internet, read over personal statement, had a margarita the night before.
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website, SDN, the usual
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Read website, SDN, relaxed
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just prepared answers for the usual questions. just relaxed.
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read over website, AMCAS application
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Read up on the school, reviewed my application, read reviews on this site
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read this website
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read SDN, my essays
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Read 3 books with interview questions, did mock interview with video camera, read up on UT-San Antonio, stayed with student to ask questions.
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I read my essay as well as the medical school's viewbook
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Looked over their website.
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Read school viewbook, personal statement, application, talked to other students about the school, read potential questions
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Read over personal statement, read interview feedback, and reveiwed the school's website
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Read my application, keep up to date w/ current affairs
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SDN feedback and UTHSCSA website info
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Scratched my head and watched ER and scrubs (funny).
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read over application and looked at their informational brochure
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looked over my personal statement
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read the brochure
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I read UT-San Antonio's applicant viewbook and read their website.
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Read over application and personal statement. Also looked at information about the school.
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Reviewing material sent by the school.
What impressed you positively?
Applicants were overwhelmingly impressed by the warmth, friendliness, and enthusiasm of the students, faculty, and staff at the school. They appreciated the collaborative and supportive environment, the emphasis on student well-being, the strong sense of community, and the excellent clinical training opportunities available. Many also highlighted the new clinical facilities, the positive attitude of the Dean, the school's location, and the commitment to student success and feedback.
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Everyone at this school is so nice! Students were very chill and easygoing, and the admissions director and team really emphasized that interview day was supposed to be relaxed and laid-back. They did a great job of reducing stress and making it an all-around positive experience. Interview day and the overall attitudes of the students and admissions teams made me want to attend this school. Administration seems like they are super receptive to student feedback and fostering a positive environment for their students' wellbeing. Also, great match rates and match list!
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the students seem to really enjoy being there
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It was very welcoming and conversational.
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Dr. Kellaway is incredible and truly cares about her students. She led the day and was very personable. As an OOS-er I felt valued. Long SOM also gives OOSers IS tuition which is incredible.
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The medical students are all super friendly and happy.
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The friendliness and high quality education
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The warmth and enthusiasm of the students, faculty and staff on interview day. The interview also actually felt like a conversation.
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Extremely friendly atmosphere!
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Campus is nice
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The culture 100%. Also, the step resources/time off is incredible. (one week off before exams!)
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The interview day ran like clockwork, and everyone- students and faculty- was very friendly
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Current students, staff, campus, anatomy lab.
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It's a very collaborative environment, EVERYONE talks about how the students are like a family want to learn together
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The campus was very nice! The medical school is in the middle of the large medical center, it's very busy! On the campus tour we were able to tour the hospital with a fourth year medical student who had a lot of insight into what it's like working in the facility. I was very impressed! They are about to open a brand new medical school building - the designs looked cool!
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Students, Students, Students, and Faculty. You will be sold as to how nice and family-like UTHSCSA is.
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Cheap tuition. Students were very friendly and happy, gave interviewees high-fives as we walked to our interviews and wished us good luck! They also took time out of their day to walk interviewees to their second interviews if they were in another location. Dean was straightforward about probation and what they are doing to fix it. New clinical skills facilities
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Casual atmosphere, how happy all the students seemed, and the Harlingen program
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Opportunity to have more hands-on experience during clerkships by doing rotations in Harlingen.
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Both interviewers were very nice, very polite. The first guy was very reassuring, kept saying things like "Oh you're gonna get in to med school, don't worry about it."
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School grounds are nice, students seem happy, 4 year Md/MPH program
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The friendliness of the students and faculty and the new curriculum changes and clinical facilities under construction.
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The great personalities of the students and staff
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Their admissions philosophy, Dr. Jones, the students passion for SA, the school's location, very genuine and down to earth students
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Systems based learning, non-competitive environment
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Honors in Research program, Hospitals are far from downtown so calm and quiet, letter grading system, hospital affiliations w/ lvl 1 trauma, VA hospital.
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Fantastic area and facilities
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The student panel with the MS4's and the overall impression I got from conversing with various other students.
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the genuine willingness of the students and faculty to help
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The students. They seemed happy and all loved San Antonio (but for one MS4 from New York)
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THE PEOPLE, everyone was very friendly and well-rounded and funny, the tutoring system, the location, the hospital system, the military connections
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Organ based curriculum
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The friendliness of the student body.
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The schools focus on students, volunteer opportunities, holistic education, and life outside of medical school. The kindness and caring attitude of the faculty and students. The many volunteer opportunities from year one, the light 4th year schedule allowing for volunteer or travel.
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It was during exam week, but the students were very friendly and relaxed. The international programs and social and community programs are very accessible. Research is on a choose-if-you-will basis. Local VA, Army, Air Force health care facilities are accessible. The Dean and Assistant Dean met with our group of interviewers and were very friendly and encouraging.
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The friendliness of the students, who all seemed very enthused about their school. The amount of funding and expansion activities that are slated for the coming years, especially the acquisition of a major cancer research institute. The number of clinical training facilities available. That students are given a 250 GB external hard drive for use in the first and second years. The new student gym that will open in spring 2009. The commitment to wellness of the students (they have a large running/cycling track, built to minimize impact on your joints, surrounding the campus, with a Texas hill country vista). The fact that San Antonio is soon likely to be THE location to train for military medicine in the US, if it isn't already. The new MD with Distinction in Research degree. MD/MPh degree that can be earned in 4 years, via online coursework. Dean Henrich's warm and inspiring welcome.
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The people are friendly, the students are approachable, the material seems manageable, the curriculm is interesting, the teaching hospitals offer a lot of primary care experience
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The school had a small school atmosphere feel to it. Everyone there (students, faculty, and administration) helps everyone else reach their goals. They have many programs available to students if they need extra help. The faculty have an open-door policy and are willing to bend over backwards to help their students. They have many opportunities that allow students to participate in research as well as travel abroad summer programs to medically serve underprivileged communities throughout the world.
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The students were very nice and seemed happy to be there.
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building new facilities
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Everyone is incredibly nice. There really is an environment of "Hey, we're all in this together, let's help each other." Once you're in, they really seem like they'd do anything to keep you.
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The students seemed truly laid-back, confident, and happy. Not sure if this is the kind of crowd UTSA recruits or if this is what happens to most after beginning school here. Beautiful, wide-open campus. Best of both worlds: an intense trauma-filled med center and breathing room for a bike ride.
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The facilities that they are building, the amazingly friendly students, the lack of interpersonal competition (replaced by personal competition), the opportunities for clerkships in southern Texas (working with mostly immigrants).
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school's environment, cohesion of the student body
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What didn't? The school was excellent. They are looking for students who are genuinely commited to a career in serving others, not themselves. I was impressed with their teaching curriculum, and impressed with their educational facilities. The Harlingen RAHC facility - sort of near where I live - seems like an excellent environment to really get your feet wet with medicine.
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The students were extremely nice and helpful.
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How nice the students were
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Community of students who all seem to support one another.
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How nice the med students were
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New Clinical Skills Lab and new recreation center (opening sept 2008), low cost of living
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How nice the student body was, been to many schools and never met so many nice people.
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The people were extremely friendly. It did not seem like a high stress environment or like it was highly competitive.
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students seem really happy and very willing to help each other
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The students were very friendly and seemed laid back and cool. I also know a few people who are students there so I felt very relaxed. Dr. Jones the dean is very nice and he gave a very encouraging explanation of the school's admissions process.
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Everyone there was very kind and helpful. Very nice clinical facility.
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The student atmopshere was fabulous. Everyone was friendly and eager to help me find my interview rooms.
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The med students are all very friendly and seem genuinely happy with the school. The system-based curriculum seems to be a good way of learning the material.
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How welcoming and supportive the admission staff, medical students, and everybody at the school were. The school's philosophy on choosing whoom to interview.
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They are adding some needed elements to the curriculum next year including the completion of a brand new building that has a floor dedicated to standardized patients and related instruction.
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The students there are amazingly helpful and seem really excited to have you there. They really made you feel special for having been asked to interview and you could tell they were most concernced with you figuring out whether you would be a good fit there.
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I love their organ-systems approach to teaching. It seems like I'll get all the clinical experience I will need to become a successful doctor.
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Great student body that really seemed to support each other and had staff and faculty that really cared.
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The friendliness and accessiblity of the students - we must've had 50 tell us good luck and give us advice!
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Their clinical preparation site is phenominal. All of the students were very amicable and normal. Definitely the coolest and happiest student body of the Texas medical schools. There was a great mix of people. Interviewers were really nice and interesting.
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Involvement of faculty. Frankness of discussions.
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Location- close enough to downtown yet far enough to avoid traffic. Also helps b/c it helps the campus seem more ''together'' and laid back
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The friendliness of the students.
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The way the school is so organized...also the fact that even out-of-state applicants can easily qualify for in-state tuition rates
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how they stressed that they want all of their students to succeed, a number of students told me that the school makes it hard for you to fail
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Good student community
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I liked the surroundings and the school itself. And of course lunch!
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How enthusiastic about the school and their peers all of the current students were. Also, if you paused for a second to figure out where you were going, someone would ask if they could help you find something.
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The enthusiam of every single student that I met and the clinical skills center.
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the people
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students are really excited to be there and extremely friendly, the hospitals look new and the new clinical skills building lets you practice with standardized patients. the school actually has scholarships to do international rotations in India, the 3rd year lets you spend time in Harlingen where they actually provide you with housing!
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GREAT people! Very supportive atmosphere.
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The unique and inspiring attitude of the students and faculty.
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I LOVED the students and the facilities were nice. I just loved the overall feel of the school.
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The school is wonderful and there are a lot of good opportunities for clinical training for students (ie new clinical training facility, third-year in Harlingen).
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The Dean's message about how they select students, it seems like they put a lot of thought into who will make a good caretaker, not just on MCAT scores. Students were super chill and had cool life experiences.
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Student camaraderie
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The people are very nice. I like the location of the school.
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The attitude of the students. There seems to be a great deal of cooperation and camraderie between them. And they were all very nice to stop and talk to us, give us directions, answer questions, etc.
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The new clinical skills building.
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The interpersonal atmosphere between the students, faculty, staff, & administration. The new Clinical Skills Center.
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The Clinical Skills Center. It is optimal for acquiring clinical training!
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Student enthusiasm and relaxed atmosphere. They are trying to impress you just as much as you are them.
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The students appeared to have a large amount of camaraderie. There are many opportunities for the third-year students to work at different hospitals and settings.
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There were plenty of opportunities to interact with med students and the students seemed knowledgeable.
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everyone was very friendly and the hospital was great
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The students-- definitely the least nerdy of all schools in Texas
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I met a lot of students and they all seemed very enthusiastic about the school and the San Antonio area. There is affordable housing as well around the area.
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Outstanding clinical opportunities (to compare, I have also interviewed at the schools ranked #1 and #3 in primary care and I thought UTHSCSA had better clinical training programs). Large class size with a lot of diversity (in ethnicity, age, medical interests, etc.)It seemed that there was a place for everyone whether you are interested in family med, surgerical sub-specialties, research etc.
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Very laid back Texas atmosphere. The new clinical studies building seemed neat.
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Friendliness of everyone at the Health Science Center
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Scope and designation of clinical facilitiesâ€â€all five hospitals are public, including one military. Micro-location: on the edge of the beautiful Texas Hill Country, that there are so many nice housing options near campus, and with lots of new facilities being constructed. Students were very warm. The administration seemed very supportive of their studentsâ€â€nobody's forced out or falls through the cracks.
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diverse gorup of students who were well accomplished and relaxed. mentoring w. upper classman.
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The students and faculty are GREAT!! Everyone seems really friendly and eager to introduce themselves to people. I felt totally welcome here. Also, I had heard that the weekly quizzes were hard and had become a burden to the students. However, this afternoon, one of the first year students told me that the deans had listened to their feedback and are dropping the quizzes (unless they improve the students' grade). It's nice to see a place that actually has administrators that listen to what students have to say. I really hope I get in here.
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Sounds like students are very happy here, no competition at all. The administration seems to be very responsive to student requests/complaints; both Dr. Jones' went out of their way to get to know me and make me feel welcome. Also, there seems to be amazing clinical training here that leaves students graduating with skills equivalent to a resident.
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the students absolutely love their school and their professors. big believers in teamwork, too. lots of hands-on opportunities for 3rd year folks. strong emphasis on the compassionate and ethical aspects of being a physician, in addition to having technical proficiency.
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The students. The post on sdn about the administration not listening to student feedback is erroneous - In fact, this afternoon students received an email that the quizzes would only count toward their final grade if they HELPED. Also, the students were told that there would no longer be an integrated quiz in the spring - only physiology quizzes. No word yet on what this means for the incoming class, but feedback from first year students has definitely been heard.
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They have a really impressive Clinical Skills Resource Center and the 3rd year students get a lot of hands on experience.
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The students and faculty are very enthusiastic about the school. The area is gorgeous. The student life is great. There are tremendous opportunities such as doing third year rotations at the satellite campus in Harlingen.
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students are very enthusiastic about their school (even those not participating directly in interview day), Clinical Skills Center, Dr. Jones, opportunity to do 3rd and 4th year at Harlingen
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How happy the student body is, the clinical skills center, how beautiful san antonio is...
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The camraderie of the students; the state of the art clinical skills center
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Dr. Jones (both of them)
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the students were very friendly and relaxed.
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This school is pretty much what I was looking for. Lots of clinical opportunities, friendly and diverse class, safe campus, friendly faculty, nice/new training facilities.
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the studnets were so nice, the opportunity to go to harligen, the dean of admissions was great!
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The students seemed to really like their campus, and there seems to be a lot of opportunities and flexibility in the 3rd and 4th years. There was positive feedback also on how much the faculty cares and gives individual attention to students who seek it.
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location, it's outside of the city several miles. I stayed with a student and I think it made all of the difference. It was nice to have someone to talk to who knew the school inside and out. If you have the opportunity to stay with a student, take it.
-
enthusiasm
-
students seemed nice.
-
The students were extremely laid back and seemed very happy the chose San Antnonio. Also, learning how cheap housing is in San Antonio.
-
Great facilities, really great students/staff.
-
Everything, I really like this school and the location.
-
Clinical application building is brand new and awesome, small town feel, students seemed very laid back/ friendly
-
The enthusiasm of the students, the positive atmosphere, the medical center.
-
students are TERRIFIC. They literally go out of their way to help you. Atmosphere aside from the curriculum is very laid-back. Housing is cheap, students are happy, and there's a fantastic teaching hospital there. Also a great opportunity to do clinicals in Harlingen. The pre-interview social was a lot of fun. The associate dean is such a nice guy too. Also it's in a great area of San Antonio.
-
Location
-
new clinical facilities, the students, the positive things students said about faculty and administration
-
everyone was really friendly and laid back
-
student spirit
-
clinical center
-
the curriculum, how the adcom selected interviewees and prospects, and how excited the students were who attended there.
-
The students really seemed to love it there. They were all enthusiastic & got along well - they email the whole class when they find or make something helpful to study. Also liked the fact that they started clinical integration early on.
-
the new clinical care center, the friendliness of students/faculty, san antonio
-
Students are amazing, go to the nite before social- you ask all the questiosn your want. Housing cheap and walking distance to school.
-
People were very nice, eager to help you out and answer your questions. It seems like they accept a very diverse class.
-
The faculty and students were incredibly friendly. Random people in the hallways were friendly. They focus on the whole person and spend a lot of time reviewing applications, rather than just judging quickly by numbers.
-
The student body and how much they all seem to appreciate each other and take care of each other. The Harlingen opportunity. The new clinical skills center.
-
Location and laid back atmosphere.
-
The location, high number of patients, class interaction, curriculum, opportunity to do a rotation in the Valley.
-
Students appear happy and proud of their school. More than one person came up to me and asked if I had any questions. Panel of fourth years were really laid back and fun. Dr. Jones has a great attitude and makes you feel at home.
-
the school, the curriculum, the faculty, the students
-
Dr. Jones and the students, everyone was very friendly.
-
The school is really laid back, fosters an environment where students help each other, more friendly, more personable.
-
4th years we met with were very enthusiastic about the place, but of course, they were all class leaders.
-
The students love their school and were very helpful.
-
the fact that the interviews were closed file made me feel more comfortable, since each student was viewed on the same level.
-
Dr. Jones presents the school so well. The students seem pretty happy and are convinced that they have it better than the other students in other Texas medical schools.
-
The students, the faculty and new clinical facility being built.
-
the students were great
-
One of my interviewers was a fourth year student on the admissions committee. Strangely enough, he was also my tour guide right before the interview. While I got the impression that he took his job seriously, he was still laid back and enthusiastic -- a very comfortable interviewing environment.
-
The students love their school, definite sense of comaraderie in the class.
-
I loved the sound of their new curriculum, the chance to go to Harlingen, loved the students, loved the library....I could go on forever. SA is #1 for me!!!
-
The students and faculty were very friendly and inviting.
-
how ridiculously friendly the students were, how laid back the interview process is
-
Dr. Jones' great speech (he always tells it like it is). Students were very friendly and genuinely interested in helping each other. Intramural program is excellent. New clinical skills center seems promising.
-
The medical student panel was very informative. The medical student I interviewed with was very easy going and made me feel comfortable.
-
Wow! Everyone was friendly. People would stop and ask me if I needed directions anywhere. Doctors I passed in the hallway would tell me "Good Luck!" The students are a good mix, with plenty of older students with varied life experiences.
-
The curriculum is very clinically based and that really appeals to me.
-
how friendly everyone was--they were willing to go out of their way to give you info and take you to wherever you needed to go
-
The friendly hours, non mandatory classes (some of them)
-
The Dean of Admissions was charismatic and represented the school very well.
-
the people, cirriculum, location
-
Dr David Jones, Dean of Admissions
-
Great location and excellent education in both clinical and basic sciences. The average USMLE1 scores are above average for this years class and they get residencies all over the state and nation.
-
the curriculm is thorough and emphasizes clinical skills. Also, you're graded against a standard not a curve (like at other schools), so you're encouraged to help each other out. This is the way a graduate program should be!
-
The students seemed happy yet realistic. They mostly live within 15 minutes walking distance of school. The dean reminded me of Alan Alda and seemed very down to earth and easy to approach.
-
students seem really laid-back and san antonio is a good sized city (not too big, nor too hick) to live in for med school. also opportunity for 24 students every year to go to harlingen for 3rd and 4th years- sounds like an awesome clinical experience
-
Students really like the school.
-
SNMA members made students feel welcome.
-
how relaxed and friendly the students and faculty were. I also appreciated the non-confrontational nature of the interviews and the structure in the day's plan, i.e. you weren't left wandering around by yourself to kill time.
-
My friends who are at the school said it was very laid back and they really enjoy it. The admissions staff were really friendly and excited about the school and the interviewees. My interviews were challenging but interesting.
-
The Dean was very cool. Took time to meet me, spend time talking with me. Most of the students were very laid-back and happy with the school.
-
beautiful campus just outside the loop; access to 3 level 1 trauma centers; huge emphasis on clinical skills; very low cost of living; are in the process of building state-of-the-art clinical skills classrooms
-
The friendliness of the students and faculty. They all seem to be genuinely happy there.
-
the students are great, the spirit and the ideals of the medical school are great - if you want to be a great clinician- go here. this school produces good, caring doctors who also do VERY well in the match.
-
The dean's morning speech--makes you pumped to become a physician
-
The STUDENTS!!! These are some of the friednliest, nicest folks I've ever met. By the end of the day I was on a first name basis with lotssssss of first, second, and third years....who also remembered my name. Not bad. :)
-
The campus and the surrounding hill country was wonderful. The interview day was very professional and informative. They seemed especially sincere about what they could offer and how they thought they stacked up. The hospitals wherein your clinical training takes place (should you stay in San Antonio) seemed to be great institutions for learning. Even the opportunities in Harlingen have aspects that make it an appealing alternative.
-
The simplicity and calmness of the campus and surrounding area.
-
The focus on the students with lots of faculty support.
-
The students and faculty are all extremely friendly and made an effort to be involved in the interview day, even in the middle of mid-terms. Also, there are several teaching hospitals attached to the medical school.
-
The niceness of everyone. I was walking by myself from one interview to another and everyone (and I'm not exaggerating) said "good luck" or made sure I was doing all right.
-
campus outside the city. students walk to school. spend your 3rd year in Harligen. (a lot of clinical exposure) the new building built specifically with the medical student in mind.
-
clincial experience here...there's a million and one hospitals in S.A. also they have really high matching rates for residencies. oh yeah & their admissions process is totally in the right place. i quote the dean "we make doctors not med students"
-
The students. Everyone was totally social and eager to get to know the interviewees; overall, they seemed like a great bunch of people.
-
I like San Antonio. The weather is good.
-
the student's enthusiasm
-
The students were very friendly. The number of hospitals (including the Harligen campus) available for rotations. The number of students who receive their first choice in residency programs is higher than the national average. The cost of living is low in San Antonio. The school is located in the suburbs.
-
San Antonio is a nice town, the Dean is very approachable, the students seem happy, even the MS IV's
-
STUDENTS--by far the friendliest, most laid back, down-to-earth bunch I've seen. They are truly one of a kind and very into their class and school. I didn't run into one person who seemed unhappy/standoffish/dissatisfied. everyone loves their teachers, classes, and experience. i also like the safe suburban setting and low cost of living! GREAT school.
-
the fact that both interviewers said they were going to try and wirte the best eval to get me there next year. and it worked! I'M IN! also like the fact that the students didn't hold anything back, and were very, very honest
-
the school is very laid back and genuinely cares about its students
-
The amount of clinical exposure that is offered from the very beginning of the first year, the friendliness of the students and faculty.
-
The friendliness of the students and faculty
-
The hospitals and enthusiasm of the students.
-
The dean of the school was personally with us for most of the day and spoke about the school. The interview led by the faculty member was great. From the beginning, he got right to the point. He basically laid it out for me to tell him everything I wanted the admissions committee to know about me.
-
The students were nice and helpful. The weather and the place was great. It was a very nice day.
-
The cohesion between the students. They really seem to support each other.
-
The attitudes of the students, also the facilities. I didn't they had as much stuff going in San Antonio as they actually do.
-
Students are genuinely happy, no sense of the false enthusiam I encountered at Houston. Great campus. Huge emphasis on faculty teaching, and a huge emphasis on the success of each and every student.
-
The niceness of the students, staff, and faculty. The low-stress educational environment and closeness of the class members.
-
Interviewers were very freindly and relaxed
-
The facilities available to the students.
-
Medical center is not downtown for a change.
-
how EVERYONE is willing to help you out
-
the dean was really friendly and seemed easy to talk to
-
the FRIENDLINESS of the students! they were soooo friendly! and the Dean seems to really care about the students genuinely!
-
The facilities were nice and I got along really well with the current students.
-
The people and the fact that there are fourth year students on the admissions committee.
-
Closeness and friendliness amongst the students.
What impressed you negatively?
Applicants commonly expressed concerns about the outdated facilities, lack of pass/fail system, extensive lecture hours, limited patient exposure in the early years, and potential required rotations in less desirable locations. Suggestions included improving facilities, implementing a pass/fail system, reducing lecture hours, increasing patient interactions, and offering more desirable rotation locations.
-
Preclinical grades aren't purely pass/fail; they have honors, high pass, pass, fail. Kind of a drawback since a lot of other schools are completely pass/fail for preclinical grades.
-
no hablo mucho espanol (Yet ;) )
-
N/A.
-
Tech problems during both of my one on one interviews, but they made up for the time.
-
nothing
-
N/A
-
Grading system
-
Vague on their step scores, but honestly I believe they will help students reach their goals.
-
San Antonio gets very hot outside in the summer
-
Some of the building interiors look a bit dated but that's not a big deal.
-
Honestly nothing, kept asking the students what they didn't like about the school and got answers like "San Antonio is really big I guess"
-
One of my interviewers was not technically associated with the medical school so they did not know anything about the school/curriculum, etc.
-
School exterior looks kind of old.
-
My second interview was with a faculty member who was foreign, didn't speak English very well, and spent maybe 10 minutes interviewing me. Didn't seem very interested in talking to me and wasn't making much eye contact, but perhaps this was a cultural difference.
-
Parking
-
Facilities were old, interview day was unorganized.
-
I felt like the first interviewer didn't know a thing about me; he hadn't done his homework. Sometimes that's a good thing, sometimes not.
-
LCME probation status, teaching hospital is run down, interviewer was late
-
Some of the medical buildings seem a little out of date, but a lot of promising renovations are taking place.
-
Facilities are not as new as some of the other TX schools
-
In class from 8-5 everyday
-
curriculum is very traditional, normal first yr, abnormal second yr; have to stay in class 8 to 5.
-
All the attractive medical students were married :(
-
It seemed that one of the interviewers was found at the last minute and actually admitted to me that he knew nothing about me. Though it is a closed file interview I think it would have been advantageous if the interviewer had read my personal statement.
-
We were given the option to attend an MS1 or MS2 lecture class but they did not hold that morning... they had small group sessions I think
-
There doesn't seem to be too much patient contact the first couple of years... Also the only thing I would have changed about the day would be the interviews being in the morning (I tend to get sleepy after lunch)
-
I had to take a serious hike (15 minute walk) to one of my interviews with a very bad map. Many students weren't even sure how to point me in the right way.
-
The physical buildings were a little old, but everything seemed adequate (not state of the art). Wish we could have seen the anatomy lab, but understand their reasoning. The area isn't the best, but what can you do?
-
No good food on campus (that we saw). Residential location means affordable housing (very) but also not much vibrancy.
-
Almost no patient exposure in the first and second years that is regularly incorporated into the curriculum. First year classes from 8am - 5pm. The slight/almost unnoticeable tendency of a student to speak badly about the programs at another med school.
-
The campus isnt brand new, but is renovating.
-
Nothing. Loved everything about it.
-
The tour wasn't really well organized. I wish it would have been longer and with smaller groups.
-
The whole "nice" thing became a problem after the interview. It felt very open and relaxed, but I didn't really have a sense of how I did. I couldn't tell if they really liked me or if they were just being nice.
-
Nothing. Great place.
-
The area, but what can you do?
-
NOTHING.
-
nothing really
-
At the beginning of the day the dean told us we were already qualified for medical school or else we wouldn't be interview at the school, so we would be having closed file intereviews. During one of my interviews, I was asked for my GPA and MCAT scores.
-
the facilities were a little old and run down, but maybe i've just been spoiled by working in the houston medical center
-
The facilities were outdated and a little shabby looking. There was now workout center. However, they are planning new buildings, one of them a workout center.
-
The facilities were poor.
-
The hospitals weren't anything special (especially after coming from a UT-Houston interview).
-
There will be some new curriculum elements next year. That makes me nervous. Almost all the instruction is large lecture format (that will change to some degree next year). They don't seem to be very into computers or technology.
-
The tour and even the process of forming tour groups lacked organization and the groups kept running into one another. My guide was talking as she went and if you weren't right next to her you could't really hear her.
-
Nothing, everyone was very friendly.
-
The city is a major turnoff and there was a screw-up with the location of my 1st interview that cost me about 2 hours of my time.
-
The hallways of the med school building were lined with refrigerators and filing cabinets. Kind of junky looking.
-
San Antonio is definitely not Austin, but the area around the medical school is one of the nicer parts of town, and housing is very affordable.
-
Facilities.
-
Facilities were okay, but not stellar
-
Absolutely nothing. This is a well oiled machine.
-
the class hours, 8-5....no workout facility on campus(i think they plan to build one in 2 yrs)
-
The 8-5pm class time like many other schools.
-
It was an absolute swamp outside the day i visited.
-
Nothing really.
-
facilities are a bit dated
-
a lot of lecture, don't have a gym
-
I'm not the biggest fan of San Antonio, but the area was still nice.
-
The heat - some major parts of the hospital and school aren't very well air conditioned.
-
NOTHING, I really loved it
-
One of my interviewers was very intimidating. She did not seem to think that any of my answers was very good.
-
Their curriculum is undergoing a lot of change, could be detrimental for students. Also, tons of lecture time.
-
Non pass/fail system. They're on a set (uncurved) letter grade system.
-
There's nothing really special about their curriculum.
-
San Antonio is a not as metropolitan as I would like, and the school is set apart from the main part of t.he city.
-
A lot of construction going on but of course that could mean progress and improvement. Also, a lot of construction going on with the freeways.
-
Facilties are a little bit older , but otherwise nothing!!
-
The hallways in the medical building were lined with refrigerators and filing cabinets, so size of the hallway was cut in half. The facilities were rather old as well.
-
The tour seemed too short, we barely got to see much of the hospital
-
Found out that there is a ton of class time that you must inevidably skip
-
Nothing really, only that maybe some of the facilities were getting older.
-
Interviewers were weird. The first guy kept putting down my decision to move to Houston, and the second guy was like talking to a wall.
-
The idea of moving to Harlingen or Laredo for 1 month or 2 years.
-
Macro-location: San Antonio's not the most happening city (but I'm also an Austinite snob). The administration and student body seemed a bit too conservative (not just in the political sense) for me. During my stress interview, that I was being harassed in such a manner! (This wore off.)
-
facilities (smaller hospitals). the possibility of going to south texas even though not required.
-
There is a lot more time spent in lecture the first two years than there is in the other Texas schools. But, classes aren't mandatory, for the most part, so you don't have to go if you already know the material.
-
There was a street preacher screaming in front of The Alamo, so it kind of ruined the whole contemplating liberty and sacrifice thing.
-
One of my interviewers was stone-faced, it seemed like he had not read my personal statement before my interview.
-
The average and below-average USMLE Step 1 scoring of this school's students compared to national figures. Also, the 1st and 2nd year classrooms seem old and gloomy. I can imagine spending most of my time in there for 2 years. Thridly, the tour guide was enthusisastic, but he seemed like someone who only cared about how much $$$ he could make once he graduated.
-
Second interviewer was MD/PhD that seemed a little disinterested. He kept fidgeting and rubbing his eyes like he just woke up or something.
-
Absolutely nothing; I loved this school!
-
The facilities seemed a little rundown
-
The new curriculum. The first year students are more stressed than anywhere i have seen and the administration doesn't seem to be doing anything about it.
-
the facilities looked cheap. Classrooms were old, there is no gym, campus did not look very nice.
-
nothing!
-
not much...i wish we had gotten to see some of the other hospitals that we would be able to spend time in (although, i guess that wouldn't have been possible)
-
Weekly Monday quizzes, an interim dean (which means that things could change for the worse), and how many wealthy people there were who didn't have to take out loans. Oh, and how many bad drivers there are in that area. Also, the student tour guides were scheduled right before my interview (I had the earliest one in my group). I should've just left the group early because my guide only gave me 5 min to find it, and I had to dash down the hall to be on time.
-
My first interviewer seemed really out of touch and hard to read.
-
age of hospital
-
I was very negatively impressed by the new curriculum, which includes a long quiz every Monday morning from 8-10am that tests students on everything they learned the previous week. First year med students said that the quizzes just stressed them out and that they could never enjoy their weekends. The students told me that many of them had communicated to the administration that the quizzes were stressful and unhelpful, but the administration is keeping the quizzes in place. I don't think I would want to go to a med school that has weekly quizzes and that doesn't respond to students' feedback.
-
Interviews were conducted at random locations around campus.
-
Some of the labs seemed a little dated, but not to a distracting or academically limiting extent.
-
Other facilities, San Antonio is just and OK town
-
The hospital seemed a little old.
-
Perhaps *too* laid back?
-
Students -- seemed very negative toward students at other med schools in TX. Maybe they were bitter they didn't get in elsewhere? Also, my interviews were very difficult to find. No maps handy.
-
NA
-
the weather was ugly, and i got 7 mosquito bites on my legs in the ten minutes i was standing outside.
-
My interview was kind of far away? No real negatives.
-
first years are in class form 8-5 most days
-
workout room bad, parking far
-
Some facilities seemed a little older, such as the labs. They have great new facilities to practice clinical skills, though.
-
My shoes....they hurt my toes....but, seriously, the school was great.
-
One of my interviewers, long presentation (morning), current students seemed clickish within themselves and the interviewing students.
-
Parking and construction (trivial issues). The after-interview discussion with the students was over by the time my interviews concluded.
-
Architecture of school and library...a bit outdated.
-
the buildings are extremely confusing and it's hard to find the interview rooms
-
Not much.
-
Well aside from some out-dated interior design, nothing.
-
Aging facilities.
-
The fact that you have to go to Harlingen to get one-on-one experiences. You can get this at other school without having to move. Also, most Texas medical schools have changed their curriculum a long time ago to reflect the current trends in teaching medicine. This school is only changing their curriculum because their accreditation agency said they have to.
-
the facilities seemed old. very retro.
-
The medical school building is starting to look dated. It's weird, but the presence of a Subway and a coffee shop in the building makes it feel like a mall food court. Doesn't do much in terms of helping me learn.
-
facilities aging
-
The second, faculty interviewer gave me a stoic stare which lasted well after I had finished answering each question. At times, I felt as if he were questioning the truthfulness of my experiences. It was as if he expected more than the answers I had given, though I was not about to ramble on when I felt that I had adequately addressed the question. His lack of acknowledgement and emotion left me weary at the conclusion of the session. It would be a tragedy to have him as a teacher or as a physician.
-
1st interviewer very VERY cold and dry--hated the world.
-
Nothing really negatively influenced me.
-
-
-
I drove around the area surrounding the school the night before--it was absolutely desolate. Not dangerous or anything, but just completely devoid of activity/signs of life. The school itself presented itself soooo well, but I don't know if I could live in such a boring place for four years.
-
Not much focus on the new curriculum, and technology doesnt seem to be a focus at that school.
-
The amount of walking I had to do to get to my second interview. As I spoke my interviewer answered a phone call. Five minutes later his secretary interrupted.
-
Not too much. It is kind of a confusing layout, and there is a lot of construction going on in San Antonio.
-
They just kind of left you hanging to find your way through the health science buildings and hospitals to your interviews.
-
i'm a little down on san antonio as a town, but (like they said,) i guess you'll be too busy studying to spend a lot of time there
-
how far the MS students parking is from the med school
-
I wished the interviews would have been longer, but that is just me (I enjoy conversing).
-
parking, continous new construction
-
no PBL in the curriculum, although I was told it might be on the way.
-
The campus seems somewhat isolated in the city, although the view is nice.
-
That 1st year starts at the beginning of July!
-
The tour was not very good--saw a lot of the hospital but little of the school. The students leading the tour and on the panel were not very excited about the school. My tour guide had no idea where anything was. Several students said they ended up at the school just because that was where they were matched within the Texas system, not because of any overhwelming desire to go there.
-
My future classmates. Most of the interviewees seemed very uptight, as though they needed to prove themselves to other interviewees.
-
Nada
-
the student tour guide IS on the admissions committee - just a heads up.
-
The facilities are a bit outdated...definitely could use some modernization
-
School's facilities are showing their age; not the latest and greatest A/V or IT.
-
I would probably not want to go to Harlingen. The tour was somewhat inadequate although I had to leave early for an interview.
-
My second interviewer did not seem to have much of an interest in my interview. He asked very in-depth questions, mostly about my volunteer experiences and extracurricular activities. As soon as the interview was over, he was out the front door before I was! The interview only last 23 minutes.
-
Lack of technological advances...lectures are only audio tape recorded, no data ports in class rooms, etc.
-
No recreation center, but then again I wouldn't need to use it unless it's deathly hot in the early morning summer hours.
-
the tour guides were 4th years that were part of the student panel... and also interviewers. one of the guys that gave the school tour must have been having an off day because he mentioned a lot of negative things about the school. they encourage academic research and the buildings look like they were last decorated in the early 70s (pea green walls?)
-
only 2 lecture halls in the main place, not good variety of food, etc. and they sorta just sent us off to our interview spots after the tour. it's easy to get lost!
-
The school facilities seemed a little dated- not as nice as I expected.
-
The food. The cafeteria food sucks. There is a subway but that would get old after awhile.
-
i didn't appreciate my second interviewer's questions very much...asked about my research and why i applied to med school instead of grad school if i like research so much...humphs
-
i assume that the school has no gym facilities because it was not discussed or shown. i have heard that there really isn't one.
-
They have a LOT of lecture time in their curriculum and apparently quite a few students don't attend the lectures.
-
Second interviewer, somewhat. it was sort of embarrassing...i went to give him a handshake and we sort of missed thumbs. yikes. he just seemed nervous or unhappy for some reason--just didn't seem to gel all that well.
-
gym
-
My first interviewer didn't smile at all. He seemed very uptight. My second interviewer was worse. He was 20 minutes late, and he was reading his mail when he was interviewing me.
-
too many texans
-
Some students didn't seem to like living in san antonio very much. I missed the last part of the tour (through the med school itself) because I had to go to my first interview.
-
The oldness of the hospital and buildings
-
nothing remarkable
-
The interview led by the student. There was way too informal. She hardly asked me any questions and I left wondering what her impression could possibly be of me because I didn't think she got to know who I am well at all.
-
The buildings seems old.
-
The traditional curriculum, not a lot of time off
-
The building and the hospital are sort of old, and have sort of a depressing aura about them. It's not a big deal, but just something that I noticed.
-
I'm not too keen on the being forced to spend 3rd year in the Valley - it will really only happen to 1 to 4 people, but still, that's not good. Gym facilities were non-existent. Other thant hat, a general attitude of people there that this is not a top school -a good school, but not a top one.
-
The lack of research opportunities.
-
The fact that you might be forced to go to the Rio Grande Valley for rotations.
-
The mandatory thrid year in Harlingen for 24 students.
-
Interviewers seemed almost uninterested in doing the interview. Also everything felt rushed because interviewers had many students to talk to.
-
the medical school building itself is a huge maze - very confusing
-
the fact that you could be forced to do you third and fourth year in the valley if they did not get enough volunteers
-
the buildings and the heavily lecture based traditional curriculum. i am really looking for at least some PBL.
-
The heat.
-
There is no gym, students must get memberships at places off campus.
-
The Medical school buildings.
What did you wish you had known ahead of time?
Applicants commonly wish they had known to relax and enjoy the interview process, as it was often described as laid-back and enjoyable. Additionally, they recommend being prepared for unexpected elements like breaks during virtual interviews, potential delays in decision-making post-interview, and varying interview styles such as student interviewers or interviewers with limited information about the applicants.
-
Nothing. Super transparent process, no surprises
-
the definition of integrity
-
An example about my integrity LOL, had to think on my feet for that one
-
That there would be more breaks (this was virtual interview). I gulped down coffee at before the start because I thought we'd be constantly busy. Ended up having a good amount of breaks.
-
To relax and just enjoy the day
-
Not to stress so much about the interview. Although I am glad I was overprepared as opposed to underprepared.
-
Had interview with a student
-
How relaxed it would be!
-
Weather can be unpredictable so I'd bring an umbrella just in case!
-
One of my interviewers was an older gentleman who loved to talk about himself... the interview took an hour!
-
Morning session is pretty long and tiresome, but Dr. Jones is great.
-
As an OOS applicant, there was a very long time (>4 months) spent waiting between interview and decision. We weren't told at the interview when to expect the decision, and I wish I had asked this.
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That there would be a LOT of walking (the campus is pretty large)
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How to get better maps of all the med school buildings. It was hard to find my way around, and I'll bet several people got lost.
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they don't guide you to your interviews
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To schedule time outside of the interview day to check out other parts of campus not included in the tour, such as the fitness center and surrounding hospitals.
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Interviewers only have your personal statement, optional essays, SAT/ACT scores (?) and high school class rank (?)
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All the research oppurtunites they have.
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The interviews are super chill, no need to stress.
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Eat a good breakfast- box lunch wasn't very good.
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Just relax! Seriously, I didn't believe everyone but its true, just be yourself, thats the best advice I could have received.
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Don't ask all of your questions of people before you get to the interview. It is okay to pause in the interview, but make sure you sell an image of yourself that is what you want to portray.
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There is a Motel 6 on the very corner of the campus. This was not a choice listed among hotel options given to us by Admissions. It would have cut my expenses in half.
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Try to get a feel of the area during your tours. Many of us got lost on our way to our second interviews.
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That interviews don't require a huge amount of preparation, just answer: 1) why do you want to become a doctor?;2)What have you done to evidence your interest in medicine?; 3) What do you know about the state of healthcare?
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That it is HUMID in San Antonio
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Nothing, really. I feel like I was pretty well prepared for this one.
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I wish I had better questions for the interviewers.
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RELAX!
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That my second interviewer would be kind of hostile.
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I wish I had known that I was going to be asked a biochemistry question, haha. Really threw me for a loop.
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nothing
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That the flights were going to be so delayed coming into San Antonio (did not get to hotel until 2am the morning of my interview)
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interviewers really only have your personal essay and some basic info about you (like HS ranking)
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nothing really
-
that a blind interview wouldn't really be blind. ''what's your gpa? what's your mcat?''
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I prepared pretty well for this interview so there was very little I didn't know about the school.
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I definitely underestimated the school! This place is like a mini medical city! Excellent support group from faculty and how laid back everybody looked.
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My interviewers didn't direct the conversation at all. It probably would have been a good idea to talk about something on purpose instead of the conversation wandering randomly. (I probably should have prepared some talking points).
-
That my car battery was about to die. It made it to the med school parking lot at least...
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One of my interviewers actually had typed out a sheet with 5 questions and he wrote down my answers as I was saying them. It was really annoying but whatever helps him remember what I said...
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The morning lecture was definitely worth going to, if only for people watching. I even understood the topic!
-
That the interviews would be so laid back and enjoyable. Half of my second interview was spent talking about skiing. Definitely know your essay, but other than that, just relax and have fun.
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It is a better school that I had thought previously.
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That interviewers only had our personal essays and nothing else during the interview
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Just how different UTSA is from the other medical schools I've visited...they really are unique.
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nothing, the interview were a little begind schedule but not too bad...if you get lost just ask, everyone their was pretty helpful
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That the people there are nice
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That the interviews were really nothing to stress about. I had heard that, but it took the experience of doing it to believe.
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that the interviews were not going to be anything difficult
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That I would have to carry around my luggage everywhere... plus I was feeling a little ill (flu?).
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nothing, it was very informative and you get to know the school well before you actually interview
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I wish I had spent time preparing specific stories that demonstrated leadership, compassion, dedication, etc. I was too flustered and think I missed opportunities to touch on these because they weren't specifically asked.
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That the interviews would be just a little harder/require more thought than i expected.
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Nothing.
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The road work.
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MD/MPH program is now available
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the construction going on
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Programs for rural/underserved medicine are fantastic
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Getting to the Veteran's Hospital is very confusing if you don't have someone show you the way.
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That there was lots of construction in the area
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--
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One of the teaching facilities is in an Air Force hospital, which affords students the chance to get lots of hands-on clinical experience and be around the newest technology. With how military realignment pans out this could become even better if UTSA develops more ties to the Brooks Army Medical Centerâ€â€slated to be the nation's #2 military hospital after Bethesda. Also, the opportunity to do parts of all of the third and fourth years at the South Texas Medical Center in Harlingen. With NO residency programs there, students who elect this option the primary assistants on all rotations and procedures! Stressful, but a great learning opportunity.
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interviews are date insensitive (the date of your interview has no bearing.) 3,600 applicants applied in tx this yr. (san antonio reduced its interviews by 100 this yr.) 4th yrs on the student panel=4th years that will do the interviews! there were alot of applicants there (~40-50)
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Cost of living in San Antonio is way cheap compared to Houston and Dallas. Had I known that, I might have come down a day early to check out some housing in the area.
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The individual Monday quizzes that we've all heard about have officially been cancelled- definitely a plus, and shows the administration is listening to student feedback.
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That there are street preachers in front of The Alamo.
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The free shuttle to and from the hotel-airport only runs til 8pm, so plan accordingly, otherwise be prepared to pay a $25 cab ride each way.
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Nothing really.
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Wear really, really comfortable shoes!
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School is pretty far from the city
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that one of the interviews are given by fourth year medical students
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I just wish I had been less nervous during the second interview.
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none
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That the name tag would fall off as soon as I put it on.
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What level my interviewers might be.
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That the interviewers have nothing but your personal statement. It made it hard because I have done so much stuff I was feeling like I was leaving something out.
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Didn't know the Health Science Center was so far away from downtown. Interesting site.
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That I needed a practice interview
-
they use sticky name tags which can leave a glue residue on a black suit
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that the mosquitos would be bad, so i needed to wear a pantsuit
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I would go to the student social the night before to get a feel of the type of students that go there.
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no breakfast, just juice and coffee
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That i would have about 2 hours between interviews.
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can't think of anything
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The names and specialties of my interviewers.
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look for the interview rooms right off the bat and make sure your tour ends in plenty of time to get to where you need to go
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I heard the social the night before was well attended, I kind of wish I had gone.
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Warning: This is the most confusing medical school campus I have ever been to. Allow plenty of time to get to your interview just in case. In fact, one of the other interviewees became lost and ended up in a locked mental ward!
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wear comfortable shoes!
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That the campus is not near downtown San Antonio... And that the students on the panel and giving the tour would be on the admissions committee.
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I would have an interview with a medical student. It was very hard because he kept asking unrelated questions. It sounded like he memorized a list of potential questions and just rattled them off
-
-
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It's sooooooo laid back. Don't stress!!!! San Antonio's process is not at all antagonistic--very low stress. This was my first interview and it was a great chance to "practice" my interviewing.
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That they wouldn't have breakfast in the morning. Eat before you get there.
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That I-10 west was CLOSED in the middle of the city. It merged us all into one lane and then made us exit. There was no notice of this early enough to exit before getting mired in a horrible traffic jam.
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That my 2nd interviewer (the one who asked the above question) would be someone who helped found the medical school and former chair of surgery. Yikes.
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not much--but i wish i'd been a little more open-minded about it in general, and also the harlingen thing sounds really cool
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Not to stress or worry so much. The interviews at this school don't stress knowledge or skill, they want to know your heart and personality.
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NA
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The Harlingen option is truly an opporuntity not to be missed. No one is forced there, but the 24 slots fill up fast.
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I knew the people there were friendly, but I was overwhelmed with the genuine feeling of good will amongst the students.
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I was not expecting this interview to be the least laid back of all of my interviews. It could also have been that I was strung out after travelling to three cities in a row. I also had a student interviewer who was very nice.
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that one of my interviewers would be a fourth year medical student. nothing was wrong with my interview, but i just thought it was a little odd to be interviewed by a student instead of a faculty member
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Not to stress about the interviews & that the interviewers only have your personal statement and background info--no record of MCAT history or GPA.
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I didn't really need a rental car.
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focused on rural medicine
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That there is no need to over-stress
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they do not make you go to harligin - but it is optional. also, the second year is systems based with cumulative exams for each system - great way to prep for the boards.
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How great the Harlingen experience can be.
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It is a large complex, and it is possible that you could get lost. Make sure you know where you are going. (Although everyone is very friendly and willing to point you in the right direction.)
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Nothing much. The day was pretty short, with not much downtime.
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I wish I knew how big the program was and how many facilities you can do rotations in.
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There is a strong emphasis on clinical experience from day one. They are proud of this (it seems to be their number 1 selling feature) and it is good to cite when answering why UTHSCSA.
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how amazing the program was there.
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get directions to the campus and find where you're going BEFORE!
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I have no regrets!
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How far away parking is.
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...
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that their curriculum had chaned slightly from purely traditonal to patient based with some problem solving
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That they have some top ranking residency programs.
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don't be nervous - there's really nothing to worry about
-
First year begins July 1.
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Their satellite campus programs.
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I learned that many students must spend their 3rd and 4th years in Harlingen, TX for clinicals. Some students don't like that but I think it could be a good way to have more personal attention (they don't have residents there)and a great way to experience what it's like working in a near border town with a large population of hispanics.
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That we would have spaghetti for lunch...so messy.
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The lack of research opportunities and the new regional heath care center in Harlinfgen where some students are sent during their third and fourth years.
-
As above
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How to get to the parking area.
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the two people that interviewed me were not at all affiliated with the medical school so they were not really helpful in answering questions or promoting the school
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n/a
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The 4th years on the Q&A panel are also on the admissions commitee so be careful not to ask any questions that might make you memorable in a bad way.
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I wish I had not gotten up early to attend a medical school class.
What are your general comments?
Applicants generally found the interview experience at the school to be positive and enjoyable, with many praising the friendly and approachable nature of the students and faculty. The emphasis on creating a supportive and cooperative atmosphere, along with the low-stress and conversational interview style, were commonly highlighted as positive aspects of the school.
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Loved this school, especially the culture and attitudes of students and faculty!
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it really is a conversation - they just want to have a nice chat and get to know you
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They said a few times that if you got the invite then you are qualified to be there and it is therefore on them to make you want to attend! They will be very nice, so just relax and know you got this! Also, watch the Long SOM interview YouTube channel for some extra insight into what they want, how they process apps, and more.
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Would love to go to this school, it is definitely a top school of mine
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They do their best to make you feel calm and non-nervous. Interviewers are super approachable.
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Great virtual interview
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Very positive. The actual interviews flew by.
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Incredible program, great interview experience
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The reputation the school enjoys for being "relaxed" is deserved, I think
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I was pleasantly surprised at this school. Was my first interview of the cycle, and came out very impressed with the presentation.
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I was pleasantly surprised by this school! I did not know what to expect going into the interview, but I really loved the school coming out of it.
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Great school with a fantastic faculty and student body. You will definitely be impressed.
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Sad to have been rejected, would have liked the cheap tuition!
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Grew up in Texas, so not really eager to stay here. With that said, I ended up liking UTHSCSA a lot more than I expected. However, I will probably sacrifice the cheap(er) tuition to go somewhere out-of-state.
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Great school, great interviewers, everyone had a positive attitude about the whole process.
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huge group of candidates
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Just relax and have fun during your big day! Be confident, exude positivity, and enjoy the process as much as possible. This is your time to learn about the school by asking lots of questions!
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I absolutely loved SA. The students, faculty and admissions faculty were very friendly, genuine, and helpful.
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I was VERY impressed with UTHSCSA. This school has moved way up on my list of med schools.
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Great school and comfortable environment.
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UTHSC SA was great. Friendly students, San Antonio seemed like a nice place to live, not too far from Austin...
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I really enjoyed this school! I find the community of students very welcoming and am crossing my fingers (and toes)!
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Interviews are closed file but interviewers have access to personal statements
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I would be happy to go to this school. If there is one selling point, it is the sense of community cooperation and friendship. It appears to be a very caring place. Also, they advertised the fact that their residency placement scores tend to be very high.
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The day is planned well, with an introduction by the Associate Dean and the Dean, followed by an MS4 student panel, an MS4-led tour of some facilities, boxed lunch, and then our interviews. Interviewers had access to our personal statements, optional essays, and some basic information about our academic background (school/majors/minors). It was a tremendously low stress experience. If you ask almost any student why they chose the school, you will almost invariably get the response: "because of the people". There is a highly cooperative atmosphere that prevails here.
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Both interviews are closed-file and in the afternoon. The morning is basically an introduction from the dean, student panel, lunch, and then tours. Interviewers can be mixed. My first interview was a little more quiz-like and interrogatory, and the second was very laid back and conversational. I talked to other interviewees who had seemingly more critical or opinionated interviewers.
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Good school, nice people, seems like a pleasant four years. It isn't in a downtown area, though its removed by only a few miles.
-
Both interviews were very low stress and conversational. I could tell that my interviewers really prepared before my interviews (they both had copies of my PS with notes and highlights). Based on my interaction with students and faculty, this school seems like a great place to be.
-
my 1st interviewer just didn't really seem 'there'
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Honestly, relax for this one. I heard this from everyone and did not believe a word of it. You will do much better and will be much more like yourself if you just breath and have a good time with it.
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While it isn't my first choice school, I would not be upset if I ended up at this school. I am most impressed by the general positive outlook of the medical students, and especially impressed by the friendly interactions and lack of vicious competition.
-
Students seemed really nice and stopped to talk to us throughout the day. I had to wait outside one of my interviewer's office for 15mins before the interview and I probably had 20 students stop and say good luck. Interviews were very low stress they just wanted to get to know you.
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Overall I would say that things could not have gone better. I felt as though each person involved with the whole process was trying to provide a positive experience without forcing the school on us.
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It was okay. They have a 4th year med student interview you. But everyone was pretty nice.
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The interview day was well organized, especially because there were so many applicants.
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very laid back. first interviewer was very nice, 2nd was a neurosurgeon who was nice as well but kind of intimidation and asked some ethical questions
-
Overall, I was disappointed with the interviews.
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Overall, it was a positive experience. While the facilities are not as new as other schools, the student body is great and the administration seems supportive.
-
I had a great time interviewing in SA. I felt nervous at first but the students, the faculty and the interviewees were all really good people which made me feel at ease. I was able shake those nervous feelings early on. The interviews were for the most part very casual.
-
First interview was with a MSIV. It was conversational and low key. The second was with a MD who asked me a lot of ethical questions. The doctor's questions were thought provoking but he was very friendly.
-
Morning presentation and Q&A with 4th years, then a tour (kinda disorganized), lunch with the students, 2 interviews, and then cookies with a chance to talk with other students (mostly 2nd years). Overall it was a good experience. My first interview was the sweetest lady ever. She was obviously very intelligent but kept the interview very conversational. My second interview was also friendly, although he conducted the interview in a more traditional Q&A way, which is a little more stressful. They have a really large clinical skills training center. The students are all very welcoming and seem to enjoy helping each other.
-
Honestly, I was not expecting too much when I went to the interview. I had thought of it as a ''practice'' interview. Boy was I wrong! Everything about the school is very impressive, from how they select whom to interview, the medical students and faculty that you talk to, the practice exams they make you do in that new simulation center (HEB also graciously donated a million dollars...) before you head over to the clinical part of your licensicing exam, to everything! I'm definitely considering this school now. Oh yeah, stay at the Country Hearth Inn. It is literally across the street from the medical school (where you will interview)
-
The social the night before was really well attended by 2nd years and 1st years (who weren't too useful b/c they had 1 week of classes under their belt) and I thought was really valuable for asking questions. Everyone was really friendly. There was a speech by the dean and a MS4 student panel. Everyone's interviews were in the afternoon.
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Great day overall! I met some really cool people who were also there interviewing. The school can be confusing to get around, but fortunately I work in a lab there so it wasn't that bad. Leave some time for finding things would be my main advice - and don't be nervous, just be yourself.
-
As long as you prepare well and understand what you stated in your application this will be a great experience. There is no doubt that UTHSCSA produces excellent physicians.
-
Their teaching hospital has nothing on Parkland or Ben Taub but Harlingen sounds like it'll be pretty cool with the direct contact with whoever is attending. Again, the students seemed tight and supportive of each other. Overall, minus the scheduling mishap, this interview was pretty straight forward. Cheers!
-
Really a great day. Be sure to eat breakfast, and be prepared to walk, but other than that, wow! Well put together presentations, well thought-out interview pairings, great people!
-
See above...enjoyable, laid back, fun. The tour is very informative and you get to see a lot of the school's facilities and library.
-
Great experience w/ friendly approachable faculty and enthusiastic students really selling their medical school in a good light.
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Overall, the experience was great. The faculty and students were very nice although MS I and IIs had exams during my interview date, so I didn't get as much interaction with them as I would have liked. Also, everyone commented on how easy the interviews were, but I found that one of my interviews was extremely hard. The interviewer was very opinionated and for the sake of not arguing, I had to shut my mouth and take it all in, which angered me quite a bit. But I think that is rare. Otherwise, overall good experience minus the one bad interview.
-
The day started out with the option to attend a morning class, then we spent time with some food and drinks while the students and premeds mingled. After the presentation and Q&A session we went to lunch and had a tour of the facilities. The interviews occurred in the afternoon and were generally over before 4pm. I thought I didn't for as well as I had hoped but I was accepted so I must have done something right. I was interviewed by a faculty member and an MS4. Both were friendly and I had a nice conversation on the benefits of research experience to medical students with the faculty member. The interviews were fairly relaxed and conversational.
-
Very comfortable. Laid back. The interviewers really seemed interested in getting to know me, not hearing a run down of all my pre-med achievements. I really appreciated that. It was refreshing.
-
it went really well...not stressfull at all,.....
-
Interviewers only had your essays. Day started with some coffee/juice from Jason's Deli. You had the option of sitting in on a class if one was going on. Then you gathered with the group for a talk from Dr. Jones followed by a panel of M4s. Then you had a box lunch from Jason's deli, a tour of the hospital and then 2 interviews in the afternoon. After your interviews, there was dessert and refreshments and a chance to talk to any students before leaving.
-
It was nice and so were the people. Overall, i thnk it went well.
-
Fantastic. A friend is a pediatrician there so he showed me around the hospital on Sunday, the students were friendly, Dr. jones did a fantastic job of convincing us that we wanted to be there, and the interviews were very low stress.
-
It was really great! The first interviewer and I had a conversation like we had known each other for years. The second interview was a little more like a quiz, but it was still great.
-
The interview was anti-climactic. My stress level was about a 3 but only b/c it was my first interview experience, had I know what was ahead it would have been a 0.
-
I had a really wonderful day. The students and admissions staff were incredibly friendly and the school is really well designed. The hospitals provide tons of opportunities for clinical experience and the sim rooms let you practice how to talk with patients before you start clinic. San Antonio is a wonderful city, so I wouldn't mind spending 4 years here!
-
My first interviewer was with a PhD, who basically just asked standard interview questions...nothing too hard. My second interviewer was an MD with a great sense of humor! Overall, a good experience and very little stress!
-
Didn't know too much about this school before going, but I really felt like this school was unique when the dean started to describe how they choose applicants for invitation/acceptance. It seems like they really want to get people that are good people rather than only just good students. Their approach to patients in their faculties is also commendable: no one gets denied care. Overall, the attitude of the school, students, and faculty were amazing. The interviews I had were very relaxed and felt just like I was talking to good friends. Wonderful interviewers with great sense of humor - I was pretty lucky, some other applicants had some stressful interviews, but mine were very good.
-
my interviews were very different from each other. The first was a young female MD and it was very laid back and conversational. The second was a stern older male MD who asked the tough ethical questions, but in the end was very nice. Almost everyone else I talked to that interviewed there said it was very laid back, especially when the 4th year students interviewed.
-
This seems like a wonderful school.
-
I definitely recommend the night before social, the students were amazing. I attended a class at 8, intro by Dean at 930, medical student panel at 11, Jason's Deli lunch at 12, student tour, interviews, cookies and lemonade with students (optional), go home.
-
If you're coming from the Northeast USA, San Antonio is a culture shock. Everyone has guns... lots of them! The overall city is sprawling. You need to own a car down in San Antonio... not much to do if comparing to major metropolitan cities. Students are cooperative, but I couldn't get the feeling on if they really socialized together outside of class. No dorms, everyone lives in apts or houses in the surrounding area.
-
It was a pretty relaxed interview. The food was ok. We had Jason's Deli.
-
Both interviews were very relaxed. My second interview was pretty much a conversation about life, sports, my childhood, and whatnot. The first one was more of standard Q & A, but nothing too hard or complicated.
-
The night before the interview, the med students organized a "social" at one of the local bars. During arrival/registration, MS1 and MS2's mingle in the lecture hall foyer with the interviewees which made for a much more personal question/answer session about student life. Then Dr. Jones gave a presentation about the school, followed by a more formal question and answer session with MS4's, and another talk by Dr. Jones, this time about how UTHSCSA selects applicants for interviews (this was very impressive and demonstrated the school's philosophy on what makes a good physician). We had lunch (Jason's Deli) and got to mingle with MS1,2,and 4's and immediately began tours of the med school campus, hospital, and Clinical Skills Center. (There's lots of med students to lead the tours....try to be one of the last ones to leave, you'll probably end up in a smaller tour group and can get more of your questions answered) My first interview at 2:30pm was really laid back, more of a conversation than anything else, with an Ob/Gyn doctor. The second interview was with an MS4 student that followed more of the "traditional interview format," but was still really relaxed. With both of the interviewers, I could easily discern their love for the area, the school, and the people, which in turn made me really excited about the potential UTHSCSA has to offer. After the interviews, there's another mixer with MS1 and MS2's in the foyer.
-
I loved it! I had the opportunity to attend a Pulmonary Pathology Lab Lecture! I mingled with the other students and then we had Dr. Jones give an overview of the school and its assets. We then had a 4th year panel which answered a lot of interesting questions. Afterwards Dr. Jones explained how we were chosen to interview and then we had lunch. After lunch I got a tour of the CSC and the hospital. My interviews were at 1:30 and 2:30 with a Pathologist and an ER Medicine MD. The second interview was in the ER area and so it was a little bit difficult to locate but I was directed by a couple of friendly doctors. After my second interview I left the school and opted not to do the mixer with the MSI and MSII students.
-
I was interveiwed by a fourth year med student and the dean of admissions. The interveiw with the student was laid back and conversational. Be prepared for ethical/policy questions when you have the dean or doctors though!
-
The day started off in the breezeway between the first and second year classrooms. For 30 minutes, interviewees and first year students milled about, waiting for the day to begin. Afterwards, Dr. Jones led us to a classroom where he gave an overview of the school. Next, there was a panel of fourth year students that answered questions and talked about their experience. Dr. Jones returned; he talked a little bit more about the school and how we were selected out of all the applicants, then we went to lunch. After lunch, I chose to go on the tour and we went around to various floors of the hospital. The interviews didn't start until 1:30pm, and we had a half hour between our interviews to find our way around the complex. I had interviews with a fourth-year medical student and a doctor.
-
The whole experience was very informative in regards to the city, school, facilities, and curriculum. The med students knew a lot about their school and were helpful.
-
It was great and not stressful at all. We gathered in the foyer to have juice and coffee while we visited with MSI and MSII students. Then we headed in to listen to Dr. Jones explain all of the programs and hospitals. The student panel was great we were able to ask questions about volunteer opportunities and such. After lunch we had a tour, the hospital is one huge maze! Both of my interviewers were very nice and didn't ask questions that made me uncomfortable. I am very impressed with this school!
-
easy-peasy-japaneesy
-
The interviews were very laid back and it was a conversation. I did not get any hard questions and the second interviewer at the end of the interview started talking to me about the girls in the area and how they were cuties. Wasn't sure how to take that, but overall it was a very relaxed experience.
-
Outstanding!
-
It was all right. It was my first interview and I was a little too uptight. Overall it's a neat school and I wouldn't mind going here at all.
-
Very good overall, and very well organized. Make sure you have a good way to start off your answer to "Tell me about yourself..." I got this question from both interviewers becasue the interviews are closed file and they know absolutely nothing about you.
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My first interview with a pediatric ER doctor was very laid back. (Ironically, however, he was the second person from that specialty with whom I've interviewed in my six interviews!) We had an extremely polite, funny, and warm conversation. I relayed my path toward medicine and he agreed with it. Talking about my extracurriculars and my schoolwork, he said that I was very mature and had already begun to consider thoughtfully many of the dilemmas of the medical community. As I left, he asked me about my next interviewer. I told him the name and he replied that I'd really like him since he's "quite a character". I figured this meant my next interviewer would be really funny. Wow, was I shocked at first. The second interviewer ran late with his previous interviewâ€â€which seemed to be going okay. (Interviews were being conducted in study rooms of library with glass doors, so I was able to take a glance.) From the second I sat down, however, he started harassing me. Initially I thought that he was just coming across as gruff while jotting down my basic bio, but once we delved into more serious things, he'd hijack my answers by the fifth word and crash them in the most explosive and caustic way possible. To my credit I spotted the stress interview quickly and never lost my cool. I always tried to regain control of the conversation and steer it back to a more civil course. I never cracked, but, when I sensed that he began wanting me to push back a little, I obliged civilly. The scariest moment was when he asked me about the others schools where I'd intereviewed and demanded that I rank themâ€â€and then summarily derided my responses, of course. However, by this point he was giving me a little wink or a "good job" smirk as he asked each successively more inflammatory question. When he came to open up for my questions, I decided to calmly hit back with his own tactics: Question 1 (Getting My Bearings): "What does UTSA have to offer me over the other schools? What are your exact board scores? Your match rate?" Question 2 (Surprise Him Out of Left Field with Slight Derision): "Why did you choose that tie today?" (It was a holiday Grinch tie) Question 3 (Showing My Preparedness With Something He May Not Be Ready For): "Tell me about the Medical Humanities Center at UTSA." Question 4 (Finally Learning About Him): "How did you come to UTSA and what's your specialty? From the final quesiton I learned that he was the ER coordinator for all of San Antonio and that he'd come to it from the similar position in the military. This explained why he chose the stress route: to see if I could handle stress in the ambulance or in the trenches. I think he was impressed as he complemented me on my questions and preparedness (and implicitly my calmness). Morals of the story: 1. Beware the stress interviewâ€â€they'll pop up when you least expect. 2. If you get one, KEEP YOUR COOL. Remember that you're being tested on your character and not your numbers now (which may be a blessing). But still remain professional and attempt to sell yourself. 3. Block out all your emotions and other thoughts and focus.
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welcome, 4th yr panel, lunch, interview, 1/2 yr mixer. since finals were over, none of the 1/2 yrs were still there. interviews are done later in the day (1-3pm). day ends early at 3:30.
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Overall, the experience was very positive. This seems like a place where collaboration is highly valued. A couple of other schools in Texas (not mentioning any names) seem a lot more prone to cutthroat competition. I don't really care for that kind of academic environment, so I could totally see myself ending up at UTHSCSA and being very happy.
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I really enjoyed the fourth-year panel-it was great to have a chance to hear about their experiences with the school. The school definitely played up the clinical training opportunity in Harlingen which sounds awesome. I think it's awesome that the school seems to hand pick their class based on characteristics that aren't necessarily the same as other med schools.
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much more enjoyable than i had imagined. i managed to ask one really dumb question: "what do you do?" of an interviewer wearing a name badge that said exactly what he did. Lord. He took it well.
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My first interview went extremely well, but the second interviewer seemed to be studying me rather than actually listening to what I had to say. It was later in the day, and he seemed like he just wanted to go home, and looked down at his watch twice, which I thought was pretty rude.
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I arrived early at about 845am. One of the second years took some of us to sit in on a case group meeting which is really cool. At 930 we checked in and had orientation at 10. Q/A session with fourth years at 1045. Lunch at 1145. Tours given by fourth years at 1230. My first interview was by a fourth year at 2pm. My second was with a PhD who was fifteen minutes late to his first interview which pushed mine back by that much.
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This was my first interview so I was a little nervous. That went away pretty soon though b/c everyone was so laid back and enthusiastic. Go to the Pre-Interview thing the night before if you can, that way you'll have some familiar faces around you on interview day.
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My first interviewer was an M.D. She was very warm and friendly, and very conversational. The second interviewer was a 4th year medical student. Both interviewers only receive your personal statement; they do not know about your GPA, MCAT scores, courses, etc.
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Very enlightening, Dr. Jones was great as were the MS4 students on the panel. The interviews were very laidback...I got a little too comfy and actually slipped my shoes off at one point! I discreetly put them back on after realizing my faux pas.
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average
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the first interview was extrememly conversational. She talked more about herself and the school. I did not know when she wanted my response.
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I had a great time, and really loved the school. The medical center is HUGE so wear shoes you can walk in, or at least wear for an extended period of time. Dr. Jones is really nice and a really great person to talk to, especially if you are from out of state. He can answer most of your questions.
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I had a great day. UTSA is one of my top two choices now (and it's making it hard to me to rank schools!). The students were great and I loved the "campus feel". Interviewers only have your personal statement and maybe your school name.
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It positively influenced me, but I wish I had been a little better prepared for the questions they asked.
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Overall everything went really well, with the exception of my first interviewer. I performed well, he was just strange. The school was great and I was left with a good impression.
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Great, not too difficult, very warm people
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Typical interview. The morning is filled with the Dean using a slide show to show off the school etc. etc. Then a student panel talks to the interviewees which is pretty interesting. Then lunch with other interviewees and current med students. Followed by tours and interviews in the afternoon. Overall a very low key day and all of the students interviewing seemed cool and down to earth.
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Overall, great experience- I have ranked UTHSCSA number one on my list.
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Greeeeeeeaaaaaat.
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You start out with generic telling about the school, then they have a panel of MS4's answer questions, then you have lunch with students. Afterwards, there is a tour given by an MS4 of the school and hospital. Then comes the search for interviewers. The campus, although small, makes it difficult to find your interviews, which could be just about anywhere. I had my interviews from two people who had a list of questions to ask and basically asked these questions and a few personal ones.
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Everyone was really gungho about the school, and everyone said the strength of the school came from the people: students and faculty. If you are really passionate about primary care, this would be the place for you.
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Interviewers (both MD's for me) only see your personal statement. My first was kind of critical, but overall an interesting, great guy. He approached my statements with skepticism as to whether I'm interested in the Hispanic population but we had a good conversation about different cultures. My 2nd interviewer was a nice old man who seemed like he just wanted someone to talk to him. Asked the usual interview questions - nothing tough. Both sessions were mostly conversational.
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Not very stressful...the usual questions that one would expect. Nothing caught me off guard.
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My first interview was laidback and conversational. The second interview was more of what I expected in a medical school interview...no surprising questions.
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It was a lot of fun. One interview was with an MS4, the other was with a pediatric nephrologist. They were both really friendly and made me feel welcome.
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easy going
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very relaxed setting; all students were extremely friendly and helpful.
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The school itself I like, but the environment i'm not yet sold on.
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Had a great interviewer who basically asked me what I liked, and we talked about that the whole time.
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i really liked this school, the students are enthusiastic about helping each other and don't seem bogged down by all the work. the interviews are pretty laid back, you get one with a faculty member and one with either another faculty or a 4th year med student. overall, they do a good job of making you feel welcome and introducing you to their school.
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really good. Very conversational, talked about football and naval medicine with first(med student) and about culture with second(physician). San antonio is a great school w/ friendly students. Know your personal statement inside out.
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Overall it was very good. Students were friendly and interviews were very laid back. My first interview was with a prof and the second was with a 4th year student. Both interviews lasted 30 minutes and were conversational.
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I hope all of my interviews go this well.
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It was good. My first interviewer was crazy. She was obsessed with women becoming more prevalent in specialized medical care. Second interviewer was a little stone-faced, but I just pretended like he was reacting to everything that I said exactly like I thought he would and eventually he was smiling and laughing....woo hoo! San Antonio seems like it would be a great school to go to!
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I was pumped to attend UTHSC-SA from all the good things I had heard, but once I got there I was just disappointed, the class atmosphere seemed more "high-school-ish" than other schools.
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Great interview experience! The interviewers were very candid and took extra time to ensure that all of their questions were answered. They didn't hold to the rigid 30-minute schedule. Curriculum is well-rounded and diverse.
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Good! I really liked the attitude of students and faculty.
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very good experience overall--the medical school is located in a huge healthcare center, so clinical experience would be great; students and faculty seem very friendly
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I really liked the school- Dr. Jones was very positive and up front about their selection process, and the interviewers were interested in getting to know me than grilling me with tough questions.
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Basically, I really like this school. The interviewers were really laid back, more like a conversation between friends type thing. People are open and willing to share their story, resources, and are just down right personable.
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to the person who said this was the least impressive ut school - 11/29/04 - i don't know how much weight i would put in someone's opinion who had to pursue an mph in order to get into med school.
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This interview was very low key, low stress. Its almost as if they're trying to entice YOU to consider THEM. They really have a strong focus on attracting non-traditional students, and they go a long way to accommodate the needs of the non-traditional. It comes off as a very non-competitive place - students are very supportive of one another.
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This is probably the least impressive of the UT schools. Of course, I will be thrilled to be there if this is where I get matched to however
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the first interviewer did not ask me anything about me. she continued to grill me about the similiarities between doctors and nurses. she almost sounded like she was trying to convince me quit the road to med school. my second interviewer was a PhD, MD in Psychiatry. He was very very soft spoken and attentive and asked me questions about myself and why i want to be a physician! *whew*
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I ended up liking UTHSCSA better than I thought I would coming in. I stayed with a student host that was really nice and attended the social the night before, which I thought was reasonably well attended. I expressed some interest in primary care, and both of my interviewers heavily advertised the Harlingen program, and I almost felt that I would HAVE to go in order to get the training I wanted. First interviewer was difficult to "connect" with and I felt really tense throughout the whole session. The second interviewer was much more conversational and I came out smiling. However, overall, I was impressed and would consider going here, although it probably won't be my first choice.
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The first interview was great. The interview with the student was very stressful. It wasn't very open and kind of raggity. Then he asked at the end if I had any questions which I used to try and open him up. It worked very well, but I still wasn't sure how it went
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Admissions staff were very accommodating. The dean of admissions made it clear that San Antonio invests much effort into choosing students who will be a good fit. Everyone seemed pleased to be there.
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The school seems nice. I was a little surprised that they turn away many people with very high stats simply because their experience is not as in depth. This is bad in one way because your class is not as academically excellent as perhaps Southwestern; however, this also allows for a very diverse group of individuals who have other interests and talents outside medicine. And even if some of the students weren't that top .001% of their college class, there were many smart kids there, as most med schools are filled with the cream of the crop to begin with. Also, i am not sure how many good researching opportunities they have.
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San Antonio was so great!! There are so many reasons why I would like to attend there! Dr. Jones, the Dean of Admissions, spoke to us in the morning on how we were chosen for interviews based on our responsibilities, work and research experience, ec's, etc and not on numbers. They really emphasized that they want people who will make great doctors and not just great 1st and 2nd year med students. As a result, the interviewers have your secondary and your personal statement and that is all. That way no pre-conceived notions are made about you by the interviewer based on your grades and GPA.
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The people is what makes this school stand out. The buildings itself are not very impressive, and the school doesn't exactly stand out nationally, but I think that the friendly atmosphere could quite possibly overshadow all of that.
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Overall it was a great interview experience and UTHSCSA has moved up on my list considerably. They have a friendly student environment and the faculty/administration actually listen to students' concerns. The location of the medical center in San Antonio is great because it is not in downtown, but not too far if you want to go into the city. Lots of open space, and fairly cheap housing. Most students walk or bike to school because they live so close. The interviews were very laid back, low stress. Both lasted about 30 minutes each. Since you might have a MS4 student interview you, pay attention to their attitude/personality during the student panel. That will help quite a bit!
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Overall, it was great, much better then I had expected. They did a great job of making the applicants really feel wanted-- it didn't seem like they were looking for flaws.
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Not as long of a day as A&M, the students were really friendly and we kept running into them -- each time they would ask us how our day was.
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My interviews were very laid back, more of a conversation than a drill. There were a few questions that I had to stop and think about. Also, it helps to remember that you're there to sell yourself, even if it makes you sound like a talking resume.
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Overall it was great experience.
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I completed the day with a positive feeling overall.
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They only had your personal statement & some info on your high school and university. Day was relatively short for me. Dean gives cool speech in the morning, MSIV come in for Q&A panel. These students also do the interviews for some people. Lunch of a boxed variety with a piece of chicken breast in a croissant. Campus tour or multimedia tour in the library after lunch. Rest of the afternoon is reserved for interviews. Both my interviewers were extremely nice, especially my MSIV. You hear horror stories about how mean they can be, but she was just really casual and conversational.
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Great day, weather was sunny and 91 (cool for Aug in Texas). We were all 1st day interviewees, so a very smart and attractive bunch definitely getting in somewhere. I hope it's San Antonio for me!
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Today is the last day to change my preferences/rankings for the Texas match, but there's no need to take any action. I've ranked UT San Antonio #1, UT Southwestern #2, UT Houston #3. I want to be the BEST internist in the state of Texas and UT San Antonio, with its first rate education, will help me to become that. An added bonus, of course, is the school's location. Coming from UT Austin, I appreciate the Texas hill country a lot. I can't think of a more idyllic setting to study. Moreover, the people are really nice and helpful.
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General Comments: This was my first of 7 interviews and it was the best school. I've been lucky to get interviews at most of the top schools across the country. This school, however, has everything I want-a thorough basic science curriculum and emphasis on developing good clinical skills. After I finish at the UT Medical School at San Antonio, assuming I'm accepted there, I'll have the keys to open any door in medicine, whether it'll be in research, academia or private practice.
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all in all a good day. utsa is a place where i could definitely see myself for the next four years.
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overall this was a good experience, the medical students were friendly, helpful, and happy.
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I was very impressed by the school itself at San Antonio as well as the opportunities it offers its students. They work hard to advertise that they are a school that has plenty of resources and things to get involved in, but your experience there as a medical student is what you choose to make of it--you can submerge yourself in your studies and become a cutting-edge neurosurgeon or you can pursue other interests and activities while studying and still become a good doctor.
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got a much better impression of the school than what i was expecting, doesn't have the inferiority complex that seems to plague UT Houston because there's no other med school in San Antonio to compete with
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Considering this was my first interview, it encouraged me that tis actually not dat bad
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fantastic. this will be my number one choice our of all the texas schools. the emphasis on patient care and producing quality, caring doctors is very important to me. Also, the school is in a great part of San Antonio - that's always a plus. And, the students here are great - the most normal, laid-back, interesting people that i have met at any of my medical school interviews.
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conversational, but know why you want to do medicine b/c SA is the type of school that wants PEOPLE not genius's
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Overall, this is a fantastic program. The Dean of Admissions clearly and repeatedly stated that everyone is capable of succeeding there. The interviewers only have your bio information and essays. There really does seem to be an emphasis on admitting people who'll be good *physicians*. As he said, their looking to admit good future doctors, not outstanding first and second year medical students. Furthermore, there is lots and lots and lots of patient contact. The school does a lot to equip you with the skills necessary to make your clinic time useful instead of merely frightening.
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The interview day is decent. I would rank it right in the middle of the pack as far as their presentation in relation to the other Texas schools. I really liked San Antonio. I will have to deliberate between this school and Southwestern as to which will be my top choice. The ambiance of the school, the city, and the surrounding area really made a positive impression on me, and I love that they are so close to Austin. This was my final interview, so I can honestly say that this is a very good school and that the interviews are not intimidating.
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Overall, I did not have a wonderful experience and I was kind of doubtful about the interviews as a whole. But I did learn new things about the school, and it was a positive experience.
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I really loved this school. My interviews were very informative and actually fun. This has quickly become one of my top two choices.
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This was a very enjoyable interview experience. The interviewers were friendly and created a low-stress environment. I was asked no political/health care questions. The interviews are only partially open-file, they only have your demographics and personal statement (no grades, mcats or experiences). Very nice on the whole, a lot of positives at this school.
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The interview was awesome. I really shouldn't have prepared for the interview because in all honesty I was asked about 5 questions total. Most of the time the interviewer was talking about the program or their career path or their philosophy on medicine. Extremely laid back. Relax and smile. No hard questions, no ethical questiosn were asked by the interviewers. My interviewer said that since you made it this far it's pointless to have you jump over another hurdle or through another loop.
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they scheduled us to arrive between 9 and 10. those that got there earlier met other interviewees and occasionally a med student would introduce themselves and then walk to another table. the admissions director then talked with us about how we were all 1s (every applicant is rated a 1, 2, or 3) and that they had not started interviewing 2s yet. hmmm. he also told us that SA stresses on drawing in potential leaders in the community-something MCAT's and GPA can't predict.
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The people seem awesome. The curriculum seems awesome. I like San Antonio. I only said "no change: because my exerience (outside of my boring interviews) just validated my initial positive impressions of the school. Their emphasis on early clinical exposure and diversity was the main selling point in my mind. UT-SA is looking for well-rounded people, not the brains that do nothing but study.
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My interviews were easy and even enjoyable, but there is something about the school that just doesn't make it the right school for me. The interviewers only have your personal statement. They dont' have any grades or MCAT scores.
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great school. I left with a much more positive attitude toward the school than when i arrived. Even though the interview is closed file, I was asked by one interviewer my grades and mcat scores.
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They are very friendly, very willing to answer questions and the pre-interview social is worth attending!
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Overall, positive...got interviewed by a student and all of them are very nice. don't be intimidated by the "stress" interview--just hold your own. a lot of students i talked to felt they hadn't done that well in their interviews but still got in. there is definitely something special about san antonio, and it's going up high on my list :)
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just relax, they aren't there to drill you, and it shows in them too. take it all in, and remember THEY WANT YOU.
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The dean and students were all extremely helpful and friendly. The question-and-answer session with the 4th years was very interesting and informative. The interview locations were spread out all over the school and hospital and were kind of hard to find, but the interviews themselves were not stressful at ALL - both just asked questions about what I wrote in my personal statment. Since there was so much time in between interviews, we had plenty of time to talk and get to know each other.
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The interview was set up with with great student interaction
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I was very impressed with UTSA. The students were fun, the curriculum was solid, and they really emphasized acquiring clinical skills.
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The one with the student was not great, the one with the faculty member was.
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It was a great experience. The interviewers were very relaxed. Also, they were interested in finding out more about your personality rather than your academic achievements.
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All in all, it was a good experience. The weather was unusually beautiful, and my interviewers gave me ample opportunity to put my best foot forward.
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A good experience overall, in my top few choices.
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Veyr positive - both interviews were laid back, even the one I had with the dean. The students are very friendly and happy with their decision to attend UTHSCSA, the campus is generally a happy, low-stresss place, despite the fact that exams were going on. The suburban setting is great, the visit itself was low-stress and it was generally a good day.
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I did not have a good rapport with my first interviewer. She had not read any information on me even though my personal statement and some biographical information was provided, so she asked general questions like "tell me about yourself" and "why do you want to be a doctor." My second interviewer asked a lot of tough questions based on my personal statement. We went back and forth for awhile, but overall, I think that I was able to express myself clearly and positively.
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Suprisingly easy and relaxed - all they had was your personal statement, and they only asked qns about motivation, background etc.
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Overall positive. The only negative aspect is the school forcing a part of the class to move to Harlingen half way through their education. Many students are not happy about it!
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Worst interview I've been to. Interviews are rushed because they must be exactly 30 minutes each. Interviewers were quite weird, one didn't even ask me questions, just talked about how free clinics were overcrowded. Overall it was a good experience and looks to be a good school. Interviews suck, because no questions are asked and it is rushed, you don't have time to get much out so be prepared to talk fast.
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very positive - the interviewers were easy-going. We basically carried on a conversation rather than a structured question & answer session
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the experience was okay. there was nothing that really stood out about the school in a positive or negative way. the students were friendly but it seemed like the students at ut-houston were more close. overall, san antonio would not be my first choice.
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i went to ut-sa not expecting much, but was pleasantly surprised. especially by the friendliness of the students, and it genuinely seemed like a really good school, despite its reputation. i really liked it overall!
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The interviewers were very focused on getting to know me and my interests as well as how much I've thought out a career in medicine.
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It was a good day overall. The people were very open and friendly.
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The day was pretty well structured with a presentation, medical student panel, lunch with current students, followed by a tour, and concluded with interviews and refreshments. Everyone was really helpful and friendly, although the campus can be difficult to move around in.
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
Applicants generally appreciate the admissions office's current efforts but suggest improvements in organization and communication, such as revamping interview days to be more organized and providing clearer information on logistics like breakfast availability and location directions to streamline the process for prospective students.
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yall are doing great! :)
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Keep doing what you're doing!
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Add the fitness center to the tour
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Nothing, really. They did a great job with the handling of the entire day!
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Dr. Jones is amazing!
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Revamp interview day. It's too unorganized, impersonal, etc.
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Please indicate that breakfast foods will not be provided, or else provide a light continental break
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None. They do a great job!
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give escorts for interviewees. i got lost on the way to my first interview, and then on the way back
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Discuss the costs (both hidden and obvious) that come along with med. school.
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Many of the interview locations were difficult to get to. Maps would be great.
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