How is the friendliness of the admissions office?
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How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
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How did you prepare for the interview?
Since this was my first interview, I prepared by going to my school's Career Services website which had a two page summary of what to expect at medical school interviews. I also read through the questions and feedback on this interview feedback system and made a list of questions to read over on the plane. Most importantly though, I read up on what I liked about Pitt (including their area of concentration program, block scheduling, particular research centers I would like to work with, etcetera) so that I could answer the ''Why Pitt'' question knowingly with things that are truly special about Pitt instead of other schools.
What impressed you positively?
Everyone was really friendly and seemed to want us to have a good time instead of being stressed out pickles. The WISER center was also amazing (including pediatric and labor and delivery simulations plus possible expansions). I was impressed that medical students are allowed to learn how to do central lines since at some schools that isn't the case (and that they can practice on mannequins before doing it on people!) I was also really impressed by the vastness of Pitt's med system including the Magee Women's Hospital and the new Pitt dorm for medical students (at least the pictures/idea of it and how cheap it is). I also really like how the curriculum includes a scholarly project with options for global health participation, but I'm not sure that should be required from students who aren't research/community health oriented (However, if you're not, why go to such a strong research oriented school?)
What impressed you negatively?
I didn't like the fact that med students don't get to use the WISER center until 3rd year. I also didn't like the fact that parking seems expensive on campus but yet my student interviewer said not having a car was a real hindrance. I did like the fact that the bus system is free for Pitt students including the ride to the airport (Although recent news looks like this may be changing :-() Since I like to travel a lot, a cheap way to the airport is a total plus! I also didn't like the fact that there wasn't much time for conversations with Pitt med students. While we had lunch in the cafeteria, there were only two med students present for a group of 14 my day. Since they sat next to each other in the middle of the long table, only those people around them were really able to interact with them/ask detailed follow-up questions. So, other than my student interviewer conversation (which was helpful but obviously a bit restricted especially since I was nervous), I didn't really get a vibe about student life at Pitt med. I also thought a handout or something summarizing the tour beforehand would have been really helpful. While our tour guide was nice, she couldn't really answer questions about student life at Pitt. Plus, the tour was really rushed and with so many buildings, I just remember the library and the maze of hallways plus viewing Pittsburgh from the top of some research building. A guided tour with a map or summary at the beginning would have been more helpful! Also, with this in mind, bring comfy shoes to change into! I did and was sooooo glad since my faculty interview was across campus from both the student interview and admissions dean interview afterwards.
What did you wish you had known ahead of time?
Not to stress out so much. I was freaking out about the interview the night before since it was my first. In reality, I was well prepared and shouldn't have stressed out so much! They really are just conversations. Plus, I wish I would have known that afterwards I didn't need to worry about my responses to individual questions - I got in so obviously I did something right!!! :-)
What are your general comments?
Awesome experience overall. Pitt's a great school and for me at least, that really came across during the day. Pittsburgh isn't as exciting as I'd like it to be, but it seems like there are some really cute neighborhoods like Shadyside and Squirrel Hill. :-)
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
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