How many people interviewed you?
| Response Average | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 2.41 | 103 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Positively | 94 |
| Negatively | 6 |
| No change | 4 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 2.82 | 103 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.98 | 81 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.25 | 71 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| In Person | 0 |
| Virtual | 2 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 0 |
| 10 minutes | 0 |
| 15 minutes | 0 |
| 20 minutes | 2 |
| 25 minutes | 1 |
| 30 minutes | 12 |
| 35 minutes | 6 |
| 40 minutes | 9 |
| 45 minutes | 36 |
| 50 minutes | 7 |
| 55 minutes | 2 |
| 60+ minutes | 31 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| At the school | 101 |
| At a regional location | 0 |
| At another location | 3 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| One-on-one | 103 |
| In a group | 0 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Open file | 100 |
| Closed file | 3 |
| Response Average | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 2.41 | 103 |
"Tell me about a memorable patient experience"
"How do you see yourself fitting into the Farmington area?"
"Tell me about yourself."
"How do you deal with stressful situations?"
"What is the bravest decision you've had to make?"
"Tell me about X experience on your application."
"What will you do to handle the stresses of being a doctor?"
"Question about the difference in score between first and second MCAT"
"Why UConn? How would you adapt to the change in location? (I'm from california)"
"What are your motivations for pursuing medicine?"
"Strengths and Weaknesses?"
"Tell me something about yourself that is telling about who you are."
"What do you hope to get out of medicine?"
"Things about how/where I grew up."
"First "interview" with assistant dean was a group interview. It was casual introductions/stories about each applicant. Then we went into a sample PBL activity. It was very relaxed and quite interesting."
"What do you do for fun?"
"Tell me about yourself"
"There were no point blank questions everything was conversational"
"Why medicine/ UConn?"
"Tell me about your clinical experience"
"What have you liked about your stay here so far?"
"why medicine?"
"How did you balance your time in college?"
"why not MD/PhD?"
"Tell me about your research in layman's terms."
"Tell me about your interest in medicine over time"
"Tell me about your research."
"If you have a difficult/out of control patient, how will you handle him/her?"
"What were your favourite subjects?"
"what are your motivations to go into medicine"
"Tell me about yourself?"
"tell me about yourself from the beginning."
"If you could be an animal, what would you be?"
"Why MD/PhD?"
"Talked to one of the interviewers at length about my current research. I think he basically wanted to make sure that I understand it from a methodological and scientific point of view."
"How did you improve your MCAT score?"
"What schools did you apply to and which is your top choice?"
"Who won the world series in 1972?"
"What inspired you to seek a career in medicine?"
"Do you believe in chiropractors?"
"Why UConn"
"Tell me about your MCAT."
"Tell me about when you decided to be a doctor."
"What are your best and worst qualities?"
"Most of the questions were standard clarifications of my application."
"an example of your creativity?"
"Where do you see yourself in ten years?"
"What is your apps greatest strength/weakness?"
"Why did you change careers?"
"Did you use the Kaplan or Princeton Review prep Courses? "
"Considering your experiences in Africa (I studied abroad in Kenya), how will you apply what you learned there to your patient care in the US?"
"You volunteered in a geriatric ward....you mean you actually enjoyed that?"
"Tell me the most interesting non-science class that you took and why did you think it was interesting"
"What do you do to relieve stress? How are your time management skills?"
"How will you decide what medical school to go to?"
"What are you volunteer experiences?"
"What do you know about UCONN?"
"background is medicine"
"How would you reform the health care system?"
"What is the most difficult part of being in charge of _________ ? (a student group)"
"Why do 70% of patients who are prescribed medications fail to see improvements in their health?"
"Almost nothing was directly asked. I basically engaged in two separate, long conversations. To be honest, I don't even know if the interviews were supposed to be open or closed file! (Not sure whether this is a good or bad thing in retrospect)."
"asked about a specific part of my personal statement concerning my reasons for going into medicine."
"Tell me about...your life!"
"Tell me about your volunteer experiences."
"Why did you major in Sociology?"
"What is my best and worst features (as a person, not an applicant)"
"Tell me about your experience in Africa."
"Why UConn?"
"Why do you want to be a doctor? (both asked me this)"
"What is your most rewarding experience?"
"the faculty interviewer hadn't read my file..so we started from scratch...he asked me a lot of detailed questions on what I had experienced in my various internships..."
"Uhm...I don't really remember...he asked about my Phil major..the student asked a lot about my application..."
"seemed like all conversation. do you feel you work well with diversity?"
"Why do you want to be a doctor?"
"So tell me about yourself...."
"What is one of your strengths and weaknesses"
"Favorite Class and why"
"What specialties are you interested in?"
"What would be a downside to coming to UConn?"
"Why do you want to become a physician (and become a student at UConn)?"
"What do you like about teaching?"
"Why Medicine"
"What is one time when you made an error in judgement?"
"Based on your X experience, what do you think about the following situation?"
"If you could be any historical figure, who would you be?"
"Student interviewer asked me about my research experience"
"The student interviewer wanted me to expand on my volunteer experiences a lot, so be prepared to talk about them."
"Strengths and weaknesses"
"What sort of experiences have you had that have helped prepare you for a career in medicine?"
"Do you have any apprehensions about medical school?"
"Are you ready for medical school?"
"Are you apprehensive about any of the current health care reform proposals? If so, why? If not, why not? (was not phrased so formally...just wanted my thoughts on HCR)"
"Grade fluctuations."
"Faculty interviewer was curious about why I chose to major in Economics rather than a specific science. We talked about my educational background and the program I have been a part of since graduation."
"How would your friends describe you?"
"The rest was completely conversational. "
"Do you have any questions for me?"
"What are some of the future problems that the medical field will encounter?"
"Describe yourself in one word."
"Where do you see yourself in the future?"
"What books do you like to read? (was also asked about what scientific material I was reading as well)"
"Tell me about what books you like to read....(my weak point of my application was my verbal score)"
"Tell me about your major... (unorthodox pre-med major)"
"What research experience do you have?"
"Why would you want to move from X to Connecticut?"
"tell me about your family"
"What experiences have shaped who you are today?"
"what is your role within your family?"
"Tell me about yourself."
"If I had a blank check how would I spend it to prevent this case where a woman with lump is told by here PCP to go to the secretary to make an appointment with radiology but the secretary tells her she can't get through to radiology and to call later. The woman goes home and never calls back and ends up coming back 6 months later with metastatic cancer. Whose fault is it? And how could you prevent it from ever happening again? (and then there was further rebuttle against the answers I gave)"
"What do you do in your free time?"
"Do you like Quilting?"
"Tell me about this class?"
"why uconn"
"What do you know about UConn?"
"what do you like to do for fun?"
"Tell me about you siblings...parents...aunts/unclus..cousins..grandparents"
"Describe your research."
"What have I learned from the physicians that I work with now?"
"Why do you think UCONN is a good fit for you?"
"How do you compare medical schools?"
""Who's the #1 golfer right now?" Me: Tiger Woods. "Ok then who's the #1 female golfer right now?" Me: Uh... "Hmm, don't you thin it's a bit sexist of you to know the #1 male golfer but not the #1 female golfer?""
"Explain a particular grade in one of my undergrad courses"
"Describe your clinical experience"
"If patient is further cut in half, what will you do as a physician?"
"What do you intend to specialize in?"
"what motivates you?"
"What are potential obstacles you face as an individual, as well as obstacles for the healthcare community in general?"
"Biggest strength and weakness?"
"I don't remember exactly, but generally to explain past volunteer and healthcare experiences and what I do in my free time and such..."
"Tell me about your research experience"
"What is your favorite piece of music to play on the violin?"
"Medical school strips you down to your most basic needs....what will be left of you when that happens?"
"what other schools did you apply to (although the interviewer assured me that this would not affect/influence my interview)"
"Questions about the topics discussed in an ethics course I'd taken"
"what do you do for fun?"
"Pretend I am not a science person and explain your research to me so that I can understand."
"Tell me about your extensive travels."
"motivation for being doctor"
"Why Medicine?"
"What did you gain form your time abroad?"
"Why UConn? Where else did you apply, and how do you plan to make a decision?"
"Why did you choose to move to the West Coast after graduation?"
"Tell me about your study abroad experiences."
"UCONN or Yale?"
"(See questions above)"
"Would you be ok with the pass/fail grade system?"
"Why UConn?"
"What do you see as a problem medicine will have to face in the next few years (ethical or otherwise)."
"Do you think that the medical profession will be a "rosy & nice" in the future?"
"If you weren't going to be a physican, what would you be?"
"The student interviewer and I talked a lot about trips we had taken and my grades, my mcats...and all that good stuff"
"What did I learn from research?"
"why do you want to be a doctor?"
"How do you feel about current physician reimbursement strategies?"
"Explain how x activity taught you lessons that could apply to medicine"
"Out of everything on your application, what is the single most important aspect you want the admissions committee to know?"
"What are you doing now?"
"Lots of questions about my extensive EMS background."
"Asked me about growing up and what I have engaged in"
"What led you to consider medicine over other careers where you help people?"
"Do you work well in groups?"
"How will you handle mistakes?"
"In the group interview we were asked to share something about ourselves (interests, travel, etc)."
"What do you do for fun?"
"About a lower MCAT score"
"If you had to pick now, what field of medicine would you go into?"
"Why medicine and why UConn?"
"Tell me more about your research."
"Why UConn? What about UConn do you think you'd like?"
"Student interviewer conversation was very casual. We spoke again about the program that I have been a part of. We talked about healthcare policy in the country and specifically in CT. Student was very helpful with questions about school culture and climate."
"What was the most important lesson you took away from your experiences abroad?"
"Discussion about the US Healthcare System"
"Other standard interview questions - nothing too out there."
"Any additional info you want me to take back to the admissions committee that may not have come up in interview?"
"How would your friends describe you? What do you do to relax? "
"How would your friends describe you?"
"tell me about your mom/dad/sister/brother and your relationship with your family"
"How did you make the decision to go to (my college)?"
"Why medicine? (I think they ALL asked me this but in a different way each time so you better know the answer to this or you won't have fun)"
"(other questions that i can't remember, the questions served more as a springboard to a lot of very interesting discussions. definitely come prepared with good questions to ask! it's a great opportunity to see if the school is also a fit for you)"
"Give me the history of your interest in science and medicine."
"why medicine?"
"What are three things about yourself that you want me to take back to the committee?"
"Why UConn?"
"What are you going to do if you don't get into med school?"
"Tell me about your research?"
"what is your role in your family? what does your family come to you for?"
"Do you think it's important where you go to medical school?"
"what are your strengths/weaknesses?"
"Why did you apply here?"
"What would I do if I absolutely could not practice medicine?"
"Tell me about this activity."
"Who is running for governor in CT right now?"
"How do you cope with stresses in your life?"
"How would you summarize yourself in one sentence?"
"Talk about your research"
"Do you have any questions for me?"
"Tell me about yourself, what I can't tell from reading your application."
"Tell us a funny story."
"most difficult experience in your life"
"How do you see technology factoring into medicine in the future?"
"Where else did you apply?"
"Do you think you'll ever perform again? (I used to act and sing)"
"What is an ewe. (from my application essay)"
"What specialty are you interested in at this time?"
"Why did you take time off to travel?"
"How do you think you will deal with the pressures/stress from being in Med School. Why UConn?"
"Questions about exposure to medicine/associated health risks. "
"what did you think of your immunology class?"
"Has school always come easy to you? "
"Using me as your mouthpiece, what do you want to tell the admissions committee?"
"Where do you see yourself in 10 years?"
"The dilemma question above."
"Specific research questions requiring yes or no answers, or hard numbers instead of a description."
"Tell me one more detail you wish me to convey to the Committee which isn't already stated in your written application."
"Where else are you applying?"
"Why do yo ulike UCONN/what are you looking for in a school"
"What is there in addition to your application that you would like us to know about you?"
"Tell me about the road to deciding medicine."
"What do you want to tell me that you have done during your time off from school?"
"Where do you see yourself (in your career) in 10 years?"
"They're weren't any hard questions..like about health care or anything...just know the school...and the perks...and you're all set"
"is there anything you want us to mention before you leave?"
"Do you have any ideas about what you want to do in medicine? Note: this was very informal and was after the interview was kind of over, and we were chatting."
"What career would you choose if not something in the healthcare field"
"How can physicians best deal with their own unconscious bias towards certain patients?"
"What's fun about you?"
"What book did you recently read?"
"If you were a cookie, what kind would you be?"
"Do you have any regrets?"
"Something similar to "what type of cookie would you like to be?""
"How would you handle a situation where a parent refused the MMR vaccine because of a fear of causing autism?"
"Why do you want the responsibility of being a doctor?"
"Why did you get a B in this class?"
"What do you do in your spare time? What will you contribute to the school?"
"more like a discussion... but we talked about burn out in med students and doctors."
"The entire Connecticut history fact quiz (optional)."
"The questions about being "apprehensive" a/b HCR or not. I was interviewed by a person who coordinates the free clinic. We had a great conversation about the ethical need for reform, and the real concerns about going to far with reform. A great conversation!"
"What's one thing that bothers you about Doctors..or something you hope you can fix, and how would you fix it?"
"Why do you think [my undergrad institution] was initially reluctant to establish a medical school?"
"What do you think your patients would like most about you?"
"Nothing really."
"Nothing really too interesting"
"Mostly the standard questions....perhaps, ''tell me about yourself'' which led on to a casual conversation that covered the bulk of the interview."
"I actually didn't get asked anything very unusual. Mostly standard questions like ''why medicine'' and ''why uconn'' but also some more detailed questions about my background and application."
"Why do you not consider math a science?"
"Tell me about your family. What makes you you?"
"how do you think your having to assume adult responsibilities early in life affects your practice of medicine?"
"A question about being given a blank check to to use for fixing communication problems within a hospital"
"tell me about your parents"
"Nothing that I can recall"
"About my family"
"You were the head of a team, and everyone was assigned a job. Your close friend on the team did not complete their part. What do you do as the leader?"
"Do you think that a high level of education ( if become MD) will make you loose your connection with your friends ( who do not have college degree)?"
"tell me what led you to walk through the doors of UCONN?"
"none"
"Was it a conscious decision to leave your piercing in?"
"how do you view the importance of research for practicing physicians?"
"Tell me about your grandparents."
"What do you want me to write on your recommendation?"
"1. If I could be any animal what would I be? (just bizarre) 2. Any questions that the other interviewer asked that you wished you had answered differently?"
"Can't think of any."
"Why did you risk dropping out of a BS/MD program?"
"How do you think your parents' divorce negatively impacted you?"
"What do you honestly think about socialized healthcare?"
"Do you believe in chiropractors?"
"What would you like me to tell teh admissons committee about you that is not in your file"
"The dean of the medical school asked me if I wanted to tell him anything that he couldn't find in my file. It seemed almost like a last plea. "Let me in!""
"How could your previous work be used here?"
"What's a movie you would recommend I watch?"
"What compelled you to make X life decision? (This decision was NOT the one pursue medicine.)"
""Tell us a funny story." This was in a large group setting that felt somewhat like an interview, the interviewer was taking notes and had our files out as we spoke. "
"So many of them were very interesting and original. One was " How can you shoe me your creativity?""
"What role do you see technology playing in medicine in the future?"
"What are your feelings on the environment?"
"Why did you change careers? (Went from Media to Medicine)"
"I can't remember..."
"What do you plan to do once you have your MD?"
"Considering your experiences in Africa (I studied abroad in Kenya), how will you apply what you learned there to your future patient care in the US?"
"What would you do if you had to give up _______(extracurricular activity) due to your medical schedule?"
"My views on health care disparities "
"ethical/policy question dealing w/future shortage of physicians."
"What do you think about the issues surrounding medical ethics over the next forty years?"
"How would you motivate a fellow student who seems to have lost his love of medicine? How do you keep from feeling disillusioned in this field?"
"all conversational. Discussed evolution with bio prof."
"tell me about your extensive travels"
"You have dinner plans with your family but you also have an acutely ill patient. How would you handle this situation?"
"I was asked an extremely specific question about a research timepoint"
"Why do you think that when doctors prescribe medicine to patients, about 70% of patients actually improve?"
"Why would I possibly be interested in joining an ethics committee or IRB (an eventual goal of mine)?"
"Questions all seemed to be conversational...nothing out of the ordinary."
"how do you plan on balancing your career and your personal life, like a family? (the reason this did not offend me was because it was from an aweseome female ob/gyn)"
"How are you different now compared to when you first applied to medical school two years ago?"
"Tell me about this class you took that sounds interesting."
"What do you forsee as some of the worst things about being a doctor?"
"Do I have a girlfriend"
"What do you think about living in Farmington?"
"What was one of the weak points of my personality?"
"My faculty interviewer asked me about my age because I will only be 20 when I enter medical school"
"What do you do for fun?"
"What is the most difficult situation you've ever faced?"
"The student interviewer was picky...he asked me lots of questions on the various courses I had taken, the results of my summer research, even questions on why I chose to take certain gym classes..."
"Describe the process by which you ended up in this room (ie; the interviewer's room)...it was a nice change from "Why do you want to be a doctor"?"
"How will you be affected by having to tell someone they may die?"
"How I would feel about coming from a bigger city to a slower pace. I think this is a good question, showing they really want people who will be happy there."
"Questions regarding what areas of medicine I was interested in and why. Interesting conversation with faculty member about how he chose his specialty."
"What are you most proud of?"
"If you were dictator of the world, how would you improve access to care for poorer patients?"
"What would be a downside to coming to UConn?"
"Faculty interviewer kept asking me the same question phrased differently, which was basically: "You're old. How are you going to cope with the stress?" I was expecting to have to answer that question, but not five times. I don't know how many different ways I can re-word the same answer."
"A question about the healthcare system"
"What is the bravest decision you've had to make? or What is one time when you made an error in judgement?"
"An MMI-styled question based on my application."
"The MMR vaccine one"
"Why do you want the responsibility of being a doctor?"
"A specific question about one of my volunteer experiences."
"None were particularly difficult or unusual"
"so what are you feeling? (I had no idea what he meant at first, but asked and he meant with respect to starting medical school)"
"What is the most difficult thing you have experienced in your life?"
"None really. He did push me though. He would not have accepted answers like "I just want to help people." He wanted to know details about everything, which was fantastic! It was my favorite interview of the season."
"What would you like us to tell the interviewers/include in your evaluation letter that tells them something about you."
"Interesting or telling story about myself."
"What three outstanding qualities about you should I take back to the admissions committee?"
"Give me a small, detailed story about yourself (during orientation session, not really part of the interview)"
"What will be the most difficult thing you face in med school?"
"How would your friends describe you? (not that hard)"
"What three qualities about you would you like me to take back to the admissions committee?"
"Not many that where too hard.... what are your negative characteristics or what will be the hardest part of medical school."
"Tell me about how your interest in medicine evolved (a more detailed version of ''why medicine'' in which i tried to be coherent and represent my interests) ''Do you think you spent too much time doing extracurriculars...because I think you did.''"
"Nothing really, just one interviewer liked the very general questions like ''describe how certain events in your life shaped you as a person''"
"I was given a long scenario that the doctor interviewing me had experienced. I was asked: Who is at fault? Who would I sue? If I were a lawyer, would I take that case? If I were given a blank check, how would I use it to fix the problem?"
"Because it flowed more like a discussion, there weren't "difficult" questions that were asked for the sake of stumping me. But the interviewers certainly posed challenging issues for me to discuss, and were interested in how well I have thought out my decision. "
"Tell us something to help us get to know you that isn't on your application "
"nothing at all"
"Nothing, pretty standard questions, but be prepared to talk about yourself in the group intro and have a short story that shows something about your personality"
"Given a random case scenario from the interviewer's past and asked what I would do or what I think"
"My position on the state of the current healthcare system"
"What do you see as problems with medicien and healthcare today?"
"Did you concider another career before medicine, and what made you decide to switch to medicine...please do not mention that you want to help people."
"What one thing would you change about yourself?"
"what does your family come to you for"
"Give me an example of your humor? What was the worst thing that has ever happened to you?"
"what was the most important decision you had to make? "
"Any questions that the other interviewer asked that you wished you had answered differently?"
"What is your role in your family?"
"In one minute, summarize why you would be a good addition to UConn."
"He draws WAE on some paper... "What is this?" After 5 minutes of confusion, he circles the A..."Ok, what is this?" After another 5 min of confusion, "Ok, I'll give it to you. This is Afghanistan, West and East. Now draw and label the countries surrounding Afghanistan." "
"None really "
"Do you believe in chiropractors?"
"What ws your biggest dissapointment"
"What event would have to occur in the medical arena that would cause you to quit practicing medicine all together?"
"What are your negative attributes?"
"What do you think about ethical issues, like abortion and stem cell research?"
"How does your role in your family parallel to the role you will have as a physician?"
"Why did you chose postbac program A over postbac program B, which my two daughters attended?"
"Tell us a funny story. Is this why I applied to medical school? To be an entertainer?"
"What was the most difficult experience of your life so far?"
"Potential future obstacles as an individual and for the healthcare community in general?"
"Tell me about your research? How does that work? Where is that on the periodic table etc..."
"What is your biggest weakness? (MCAT)"
"nothing too difficult"
"Having to defend my interests and sincerity to someone who does not like his job. See specific questions."
"I see you too this class (a philosophy class) tell me about it"
"Nothing difficult"
"See question above."
"What is the population of Hartford, CT?"
"nothing too bad"
"Why are you applying for the postbac when you can go directy into medical school with these grades and scres?"
"Nothing"
"The mode of action of a specific drug we were discussing"
"see above, because I was not expecting that level of detail"
"see above"
"Nothing at all."
"How would you improve the PBL session (asked because I said I thought it could be more effective than it was)."
"nothing really"
"Same as the above."
"If you got accepted to Yale and UCONN where did you go?"
"Favorite Book and what I got out of it"
"What "
"No difficult questions were asked."
"Nothing difficult at all"
"Do you have a boyfriend? --This definitely caught me off-gaurd! "
"Would you go to UCONN over a top-rated private medical school?"
"Why UCONN...what does this school offer that no other school offers?"
"What do you think about Affirmative Action policies?"
"Why Connecticut?"
"How do I feel about capitation-type reimbursement/physician incentive plans."
"How much time do you expect to spend in class and studying? What do you forsee your daily schedule to be? Questions reagarding time management and balancing family and medical school."
"reviewed primary and secondary application"
"Read over my application and secondary answers, had a few beers, and a full 6 hours of sleep."
"UConn website, MSAR, current students"
"Practice 10+ hours of responding to interview questions so that I could connect each question to an experience listed on AMCAS"
"Re-read website, especially info on new curriculum. Skimmed a few older SDN school-specific threads. Read through SDN interview feedback page. Reviewed my PS and secondary app."
"Knew my application in and out and learned about the school via website"
"Had a mock interview through my university."
"Read on SDN threads and practiced talking in front of a mirror."
"Read their website, read over my applications, practiced some answers and read SDN."
"SDN, mock interviews at school and with friend"
"Practiced answers for standard interview questions and reviewed my application"
"Read my AMCAS, my secondary."
"Studied primary and secondary, interview feedback, and the school's website"
"Reviewing my secondary application, Studentdoctor.net, school's website"
"researching their site, this site, and talking with current students."
"SDN, New England Journal of Medicine, Review AMCAS, review thesis and research I've done, talk to other docs and med students about their experience interviewing"
"They sent out an email w/ information to review. I also downloaded the pdf admissions booklet from the admission website... that was very helpful"
"This site...."
"Read over term papers I wrote in college. Read about schools curriculum. Prepared for some of the "traditional" questions. (Why this school, why medicine...)"
"talked to current students i knew, SDN and undergrad interview reports"
"SDN, School Website, School newsletters, reviewed application, contacted current and former students"
"SND, reviewed PS, secondary"
"SDN, reread AMCAS application, UConn secondary"
"SDN, thought about answers for some generic interview questions, reread all application materials"
"SDN, uconn website, reviewed amcas and secondary answers"
"SDN, read about the program online, reviewed all of my application materials"
"SDN, school website, made list of questions and answeres for typical questions and read them aloud once I was done, read over AMCAS and secondary app."
"re-read AMCAS, background about the school on their website, practiced informally with a friend about typical questions. "
"AMCAS application, supplementary essays, school website"
"SDN, AMCAs and secondary application, school website, medical school books"
"SDN, practiced answering questions with a good friend and then someone who i didn't know as well. (because of the open-ended nature of the discussion format, it would be very helpful to practice answering questions and discuss your reasons for wanting to go into medicine with someone beforehand)"
"Reread my supplemental app, SDN"
"amcas, read through secondary essays, website, mock interviews"
"Looked at AMCAS, SDN, secondary appl."
"SDN, website, viewbooks"
"Nothing"
"Reviewed application materials."
"secondaries, sd, Uconn webpage.."
"SDN"
"sdn, reread secondaries"
"Reviewed AMCAS application and UConn secondary, SDN interview feedback."
"Looked over UConn's website and the material they emailed me"
"read uconn's website, reread my AMCAS and secondaries."
"SDN, website, read over application"
"SDN, abstracts of recent papers from my interviewers"
"reviewed AMCAS and secondary application; explored UConn's website and review my publications and research experience"
"Reread my application essays; school website and brochure"
"sdn, amcas, secondary, brochure"
"SDN, UConn website"
"Read up about the school on the website, SDN, reviewed my amcas and secondary application, rested well the night before"
"SDN, school's website, read my secondary essays"
"SDN, school website, AMCAS and secondary application"
"Student doctor; school website; talking to current med students"
"SDN, mock interviews, reread application, UCONN website"
"studentdoctor.net, reread amcas and secondary app, read the news, made sure I was comfortable in my suit"
"Re-read essay, read about school"
"SDN, of course! And a half hour chat with a current student."
"Read up on the school."
"AMCAS stuff, reading secondary essays, read about current topics"
"Re-read application, school website, SDN, read a few articles, etc."
"Review app. Read health care news. SDN."
"Web site, reviewed my application essays, researched current hot medical topics (stem cell, genome project)"
"sdn, read over application, school's website, other interviews right beforehand..."
"SDN, reading my AMCAS and supplemental app and going through the school's website"
"reviewed my secondary, AMCAS app, SDN, and talked to a close friend who is in 3rd year at UConn"
"Re-read applications, school brochures, typical interview questions, read recent health care legislation initiatives."
"read SDN, school website"
"Read SDN (very helpful), looked over AMCAS and Secondary "
"Review AMCAS app, secondary, sdn, school web site, mock interviews w/family members"
"read the school catalog, interviewed there last year, reviewed the AMCAS and secondary application for this school."
"Re-read secondary."
"read my essays, took a shower, and put on my suit."
"SDN. school website"
"sdn, reviewed apps, MSAR"
"School website, read over my AMCAS and secondary, SDN"
"read the website, read a book about classic cases in medical ethics and a book called "Understanding Health Policy" "
"Going over my submissions, SDN, UConn website"
"Spoke to current students, MSAR, school's website"
"This website, UConn website, previous interview experiences."
"Reviewed by AMCAS and secondary materials, looked through school website and SDN"
"read over application, sdn, looked at site"
"Reviewed my application, read about school extensively from catalog/website, browsed SDN."
"UConn website, read my file, SDN"
"Read questions from here...."
"sdn, UCONN website, advice from Dad with interview skills (dont underestimate the insight of your parents)"
"SDN, undergrad pre-med interview files, website"
"Reviewed SDN, looked over school's programs, reviewed application"
"sdn, preprofessional health committee info, web"
"Read my application & info about UCONN & talked to friends who already interviewed there."
"Reviewed my application and the UCONN website"
"Read their website, talked to faculty and students"
"Studentdoctor.net; read my application; talked to a UCONN student; read the material the school gave me"
"Sadly...I didn't do anything. But that wasn't a bad thing. They tell you lots about the school, so there's plenty to ask about. And I knew my application well. "
"Feedback, sample questions"
"I read the website and mailings."
"Read their website and talked to current students."
"The overall interview day was fairly short (10am-3pm with an hour break in between)."
"Very kind Dean"
"The immense support systems in place and overwhelming feeling of collaboration and comradery between staff members and students alike."
"Dr. Regan speaking, TBL practice"
"It was clear the admissions office had carefully prepared for interview day. They did a great job at making me feel at home. There were plenty of opportunities to see what the school has to offer."
"Curriculum, welcoming atmosphere, seems like a supportive community."
"Team-based learning"
"The energy of everyone we spoke to, the new facilities, the really nice looking TBL area and classrooms."
"Really laid back atmosphere. Dean was really cool."
"The community atmosphere of the school. Everyone is "in it together"."
"Facilities are amazing. Community seemed strong"
"The students were really supportive of each other and seemed very happy. There's a simulation lab which was really awesome."
"The sense of community and pride amongst faculty and students"
"early clinical exposure, amount of community service, sense of community among the students"
"The campus is gorgeous! It is on a hill so when you look out you see beautiful trees and an elegant community. The administrators are friendly and very available. They make you feel comfortable. There is also a true P/F system and the curriculum is awesome. If you are truly interested in community service and receiving clinical exposure, this is the place to be!"
"Everything. Specifically: the curriculum and the people. Everyone was happy and the school works sooooo hard to make everyone as happy as possible during med school. The SCP program sounds AWESOME."
"Pass/Fail system. Working with the dental students."
"Tuition, atmosphere, facilities."
"curriculum, clinical opportunities, cheap for in-state!"
"The Dean and Assistant Dean were very encouraging and impressive individuals. The students I met with were great. The program is really fantastic."
"Friendly atmosphere, depth of clinical experience...."
"The curriculum, student enthusiasm"
"1. Early clinical exposure 2. Small class size 3. Pass/Fail 4. Strong support of the faculty"
"Students are happy, my host was great, people study together and are happy. The tuition is nice, in-state after the 1st year if out of state. Nice anatomy lab."
"Student enthusiasm, size of the class (about 80 people), early clinical exposure"
"The relaxed atmosphere. Very little stress. everyone was "
"How excited the students were about their school. The people I spoke with all emphasized that it's still early in the cycle and we were selected as early interviewers (despite the SDN general impression) because of our character and backgrounds and our grades and MCAT were less important at this stage. "
"The students were very receptive, everyone was incredibly friendly, I really liked the emphasis on clinical training from the beginning of the first year, they are revamping their facilities as well"
"The intensity of the clinical exposure that begins in the first year. Lots of current medical students came into the admissions office during the day to visit with the staff and stayed to chat with the applicants and were all very friendly and welcoming."
"honesty of my faculty and student interviewers. it seemed that they were both genuinely interested in my well being."
"You can get in-state tuition your 2nd year, friendly students, ''smart'' boards, lots of patient contact from year 1 on, extended anatomy course, are currently redoing the classrooms--will be read next year"
"faculty, facilities, organization"
"Day was nicely organized, everyone we met was very friendly, and the anatomy labs had great ventilation"
"the students' enthusiasm about their school and faculty"
"Cirriculum, students seemed happy"
"The facilities"
"interviewers were very friendly.. could talk about sport, quilting, or dreams for 25 minutes. Seemed to evaluate mostly your conversation skills. Very nice and new facilities..."
"Faculty and students are very friendly"
"nice buildings and they put together a well-organized day that sheds a positive light upon the school"
"Although the hospital looks stark from the outside, the facilities inside were amazing. The anatomy lab was very well lit and somehow did not smell at all. The students were very friendly and normal. There were almost 25 students enthusiastic enough about their school to volunteer to interview and lead tours on a Saturday."
"the students seem to love it; the willingness of professors to help outside of class"
"UConn has a very well integrated pre-clinical curriculum. You get early patient contact, learn to perform physical exams and history taking right away, and work with one physician for three years helping take care of his patients. also, since they have a small class, there's definitely a strong sense of family."
"sense of community, students seem very happy"
"they have incredible clinical skills practice facilities"
"The program's organization is ideal for me because emphasizes early patient contact, which I think is very important (and obviously works out well considering that 100% of their students pass the clinical skills portion of step 2 the first time). I also really liked the small size of the class. The Dean of Students was really great and seems to know the majority of the students on a personal level. The schools just seems to be very close knit."
"Learning about the continuity clinical experience of working with the same physician one-on-one for three to four years and being able to develop relationships with patients"
"Since there is no medical school "community," they try to make up for it by hosting lots of student activities."
"Nothing"
"I stayed with hosts, they were really cool and friendly and had a very positive attitude about the school"
"The facilities for a public school, the students and the staff, the location is nice as well."
"school's curriculum and facilities"
"The lunch"
"almost everything-- the educational philosophy of the school, the facilities, the enthusiasm of the students and interviewers"
"friendly atmosphere, new-ness of facilities, the day is really nicely structured so you're never sitting around waiting for a long time"
"Their desire to establish community and their desire to look at the student as a person"
"The students were enthusiastic and friendly, and the facilities/technology were top of the line."
"One of my interviewers founded the medical school, and he was a nice decent guy."
"I really enjoyed talking to the students: those are the happiest I have seen in the process: I would definitely recommend spending the night with a student host. The program is also very well organized I thought."
"Just about everything...facilities, curriculum, admissions staff, extremely happy, down to Earth students...the list goes on..."
"Happy students and faculty, beautiful environment, diverse group, exit interview with Dean. Seems like they know each applicant well."
"Curriculum setup - 8am-12pm everyday, and two afternoons either in Clinical class or in field at doctor's office. Also, split between lecture and hands on, problem based learning. Integration and openness to Alternative Medicine a big plus."
"The people (students and faculty) were all so nice and enthusiastic and seemed like they really genuinely cared about everyone who comes through the school - just a very warm, friendly, laidback atmosphere. Also, the curriculum."
"Every student was excited about what they were doing and seemed genuinely happy"
"how happy the students were, how caring and involved the faculty seemed, the awesome clinical exposure and training, particularly during the first two years"
"Camaraderie of students, faculty interest in helping students, student's ability to have a social life."
"the staff, students, everyone seemed geniunely nice, interested and happy to be there. They also seemed pretty pleased with the cost- after a year the student qualifies for in-state tuition, the PBL is definitely a plus"
"The students were very enthusiastic about the school and gave valid reasons for it (versus just stating that "it's a really good school"). The organization of the curriculum and supportive atmosphere were also impressiive."
"The clinical experience at UConn seems amazing. Maybe more integration than any other school."
"The people were extremely friendly and the interviewees as a group get to go through a problem based learning session."
"Students are actually pretty smart and fun to be around. Student interviewer was very cool. PBL session was interesting. The cafeteria isn't that bad!"
"Students seem nice, facility is pretty modern, price is good"
"the people"
"the extent of student involvement in the community, and their enthusiasm about the school"
"The atmosphere of the school is SO friendly, the gross labs are very well ventilated and you get to meet with two Deans while you're there! The school just really seems to be very concerned with what students think, even before you're a student!"
"The facilities and area were beautiful, I learned that Yale sends students to UConn for clinical training, and the Assistant Dean took the time to meet with each applicant to make sure that we had expressed what we wanted the comittee to know"
"How friendly everybody was. They seemed excited that you were considering their school. Their laboratory facilities are excellent"
"This was the best interview session I've been to. The morning is very relaxed and organized. The students, faculty, and administration are truly laid back and happy to be there. From that, you feel very comfortable. "
"Quite a bit. Systems-based curriculum, PBL, minimal lecture time (and the PBL session on the tour, while rudimentary, was still cool). The facilities surprised me by how nice they are, particulary since it's a state school. Better-than-expected avg board score (220 for Step 1), students seem fairly competitive for resident match. "
"The human anatomy lab didn't stink (cadavers were covered when we were there). Everyone was friendly and helpful. Very low stress atmosphere."
"wonderful students who truly seem happy. nice facilities. the area is really cute, although a small town. my interviewers seemed like they spent a lot of time reading my file. the physician who interviewed me told me a lot about her experience through med school, etc. which was realistic yet positive. "
"How everyone was very frank, open, friendly, helpful, and that the students seemed very happy with their life at UConn."
"Their clinical training it AMAZING. For first 3 years students go once a week to same primary care facility and work with a doctor. Also GREAT volunteer opportunities that all the students are interested in."
"She really new my file and asked some detailed questions. "
"Students were happy, instate tuition"
"The cordiality with which all the interviewers conducted themselves... very low stress. Even the other interviewees were really nice- there is a feeling of zero competition at the school."
"Everyone was very warm and receiving, and faculty did seem to truly know the students. They allotted time for you to meet and interact with other students interviewing."
"The students really seemed to love it there and expressed that many times. The faculty are so involved with the students too. Oh and the Dean knows all of the students by name."
"The friendliness of both the students & faculty. All the students were extremely honest & seemed completely down to earth. My student interviewer was great to talk to - she seemed like a friend I had known for years. "
"The school is active in the community and works with 4 very large hospitals so it has a diverse patient base. The students all help each other because of the pass/fail system."
"The students seemed to like the school..."
"The dean of students and his very sincere declaration that it was his job to care about us. The students are excellent - they are wonderful people and it's clear that they enjoy their school."
"The amount of community service and ethics that are integrated into UConn's curriculum. Also, how happy the students are."
"the school itself, the health sciences center is impressive. ^The problem based learning session gives you a good idea of the school philosophy and teaching techniques "
"The center. It's beautiful. Also the friendliness. This was my last interview, and there was a sense of friendliness and comaraderie not seen elsewhere among students."
"Friendliness of the staff and students."
"My student interviewer got cut short"
"Absolutely nothing. This school seems too perfect."
"Tour - discombobulated"
"Nothing, great school"
"Nothing, really."
"The tour was a little unorganized and didn't show much but I didn't think it was a big deal."
"Nothing really"
"parking situation... but I already knew about that."
"Nothing really."
"Really not much... the pamphlets they handed out could have used a bit more thought, but even they were fine. I will be matriculating, so I am prob biased. (I got into several schools though...I just really loved UConn)."
"The town the school is in."
"only two weeks to study for step I?!, isolated location - suburban and completely separate from the main UConn campus, small class around 65-70% female"
"N/A"
"Location could be a little more interesting"
"Parking situation, the necessity of a car"
"They don't have any on campus gym or other recreational activities "
"Facilities are not amazing. Lecture halls are undergoing construction though. When we asked what students didn't like about the school, they said the teaching - some lecturers aren't good, they said. A couple people said the teaching isn't great, which concerned me."
"Nothing, although there is no gym and you need a car since it is a pretty rural environment without any public transportation. "
"NO GYM...lol, but overall impressed."
"I somewhat felt like the people were trying to ''sell'' it a little too hard (especially since I'd LOVE to go there). "
"No gym, it's in the middle of no where"
"The tour guides were unenthusiastic and unprepared."
"like many others, i got a really good feeling about the school. "
"Hospital is not exactly new, no gym"
"tour guides"
"The way one of the interviews was conducted"
"location"
"The people and atmosphere. The interview day started late. As you walked through the halls, no one greeted each other. Seemed like we were an imposition on them."
"Because of the holidays, it may take up to 6 weeks before having an answer. Also, they will only start the waiting list in March.. a lot of waiting.."
"the area"
"nothing."
"Is clearly a primary care school yet they keep stressing research even though everyone knows they aren't a research institution; no campus -- people live 30 min from school, many close or with their parents"
"farmington feels pretty bland but hartford is right next, and NY and Boston are only 2 hrs away.. so it's not too bad."
"must have a car, rural location"
"while the students seemed happy at UConn, they weren't very enthusiastic like, "
"The facility is kind of drab and everything is ine one location. However, they do have plans to update the lectures halls and such in the very near future."
"No real campus; over stressing research yet also claiming to be the best school to learn how to take a patient history and do a physical exam"
"no gym, library closes early"
"You mean other than the fact that my interviewer was the DEVIL himself? My tourguide got wasted on a school night--then proceeded to skip class to sleep it off. "
"The small student body...I think it is a little too small for my liking."
"location location location - on a huge hill away from civilization"
"The two faculty interviews gave me a bad impression because most of their focus was on the MCAT. "
"the location"
"nothing...it was a great visit"
"location - perched up on a big hill, very isolated"
"Academic rigor didn't seem to be a priority, the students were pretty homogeneous, and the area is a bit remote -- but all to be expected from a state school!"
"Everyone seemed exhausted and pale. More so than at other more competitive schools."
"The facilities, the location. I was disappointed."
"Nothing comes to mind..."
"Insecurity about other programs (yale, harvard etc...) There is no need to be."
"No windows in classrooms and lecture halls. I like to see the outdoors, and feel cramped without them."
"lack of: athletic facilities, campus, parking availability"
"Size of the labs"
"not too much going on in farmington, no gym"
"Physician interviewer was an egomaniac whose MO still eludes me.."
"that parking was a little far from the entrance (or maybe it was just because I got lost). Also there is no gym & housing"
"Although there are places to go around town, the school is somewhat isolated. No campus life per se."
"no campus housing, so no medical student community outside of the schoo/hospital. Also, you have to commute. person leading the PBL session was too low key, made it drag on a bit."
"While in the gross anatomy lab, a professor came in and yelled at the tour guides, saying we shouldn't be in there, that it was a place of respect and not a zoo. It was nuts. But, to UCONN's credit, the guides spoke to the Dean of Students and he spoke to us and to the professor afterwards. We were permitted in there and it was strange she went nuts on us. I was impressed the Dean took the time to fix this. Went to a second year class... it was a little boring. Facilities aren't great but not bad, either."
"no campus per se, "
"the cafeteria"
"It's location. Far removed from everything. A city on the hill"
"The cafeteria kind of sucks and the tour guides told us the John Dempsey hospital only has 80 beds! Not sure if this is accurate though because it's not what the brochure we got says."
"The medical center is rather isolated (good and bad, I guess), and every student is a "commuter" student"
"Public transportation seems to stop aroung 7pm so if you go to school there, you will need to get a car."
"Eat a big breakfast. You don't get lunch until 1pm (after your two interviews). "
"Nothing I can think of right now... Farmington isn't the most happening place I guess."
"Cafeteria food. "
"The tour was cut short because everyone went over-time in their interviews."
"The building is kind of old and ugly, plus it stands alone with no hospital or campus aruond it."
"The students who gave the tour were not interested in what they were doing. It seemed like they felt they had better things to do."
"midle of nowhere, but that might be good since there will be few/no distractions"
"Neither my student nor my faculty interviewer showed up. It didn't bother me too much, because I was then interviewed by some of the deans, which was wonderful. Farmington isn't exactly the hottest spot in the country either."
"Connecticut doesn't know how to take care of snow."
"Nothing at this point."
"Farmington, CT is BORING but it's not too far from Hartford, New Haven, or NYC."
"Nothins"
"The med school is part of the health center, which is in a different town from the main campus."
"Honestly? Nothing. It's a really great place."
"seemed all positive"
"The location and lack of fitness facility."
"Nothing"
"Many repeat questions between student interview and faculty"
"I had all the info I needed."
"Lunch is pretty late, eat a good breakfast and brings snacks if you'd like."
"Lunch is later in the day so bring food if you get hungry"
"That it would be so conversational! Everyone was very friendly and it was low pressure."
"Nothing really"
"I was pretty prepared after reading through the advice here."
"I knew this ahead of time, but lunch isn't until 1p and the day starts at 9:30a, so bring a light snack and drink if you tend to get hungry."
"I felt very prepared."
"Just how relaxed the interviews are."
"To bring a little extra cash for lunch. You are given a complementary meal ticket but it may not cover as much as you would like. Bring some cash and then don't worry about having to add up your meal before you check out."
"I was happy I knew about the PBL ahead of time, make sure you read up on PBLs, understand how cases are strutured, objectives, etc. The case isn't hard, but you need to be able to discuss it with other interviewees. Also, you will have to introduce yourself in the group session and discuss healthcare issues (hint: reread your secondary)"
"People are so nice. The hopsital is huge!"
"How friendly everyone was going to be! It lessened my stress level. It was nice knowing about the information session with Dr. Sanford, where you have to introduce yourself and participate in a Problem-Based Learning session, ahead of time from this site. "
"bring a bottle of water perhaps. it would have made me more comfortable during the interview. "
"I was just a little nervous and hopefully didn't leave things out that are important to my interest in medicine and a career as a physician when I was answering questions. "
"Nothing, just be prepared at the very beginning of the day to talk about a medical case. It's nothing difficult, it's very intuitive and very basic, they just want to see how u interact in a group setting."
"Farmington requires a car, and it can be challenging even to get from your hotel to the school without one."
"They put you on the spot a bit to do analyze a medical case--nothing too bad, though"
"Realized that when SDN said three interviewers one on one that it meant three back to back interviews"
"There would be a lot of waiting."
"Have to make a presentation of yourself in front of the other candidate."
"that we'd have to say something interstinng about ourselves that was not on our amcas to all the other applicants and the dean"
"They do not provide housing to their students."
"That the day would be so long."
"that the hospital is too small to rotate all the med students"
"If you stay with a host, bring you own towels."
"the pride UCONN takes in its unique curriculum"
"They have a very strong sense of community"
"Nothing, it was quite friendly."
"That the interview would last all day! It was exhausting and a lot of banalities and repetition."
"How their curriculum is unique and the early patient contact."
"Classes with dental students the first two years(probably a good thing), and their exam format"
"Tell a story about yourself on the spot to group."
"I felt well prepared."
"........"
"That my genuine interests in science and medicine would be doubted by the interviewer."
"nothing, my friend had done a program there so I sort of knew a lot about the school/program"
"how informal the faculty interview would be."
"Med and dent students are in class together."
"That I would have to think up an interesting story about myself that's not in my application on the spot for the 'orientation' at the beginning of the day!"
"Lunch is late, bring a snack! "
"Lunch is served at 1pm, so be prepared."
"I've interviewed at quite a few places, and UConn is at the top of my list. I'm not really sure why this school doesn't get more respect (good curriculum, good facilities, MSTP-funded) because it seems like a great place to attend school."
"We didn't have a break to eat until 1PM. If you tend to need food every few hours, carry a small snack or eat just before you enter the building."
"that uconn is trying to expand its out-of-state acceptance percentage- good for me. also,there is a mock-pbl session with a faculty member and a student. this does not count towards your interview and it's pretty fun. "
"Their great clinical training program-apparently Yale sends their students to UConn's standardized pt program b/c they don't have one and Uconn's is really good."
"Pass/Fail curriculum. Small MD/MPH program"
"Know stufff about their curriculum... its systems based and very well laid-out. Also, there is a program that places you at an MD's office in the community one afternoon per week for your first 3 years... I thought that is really cool."
"That the A/C worked so well in the building. I froze to death. Almost."
"Nothing"
"I pretty much was aware of it all b/c friends had just interviewed. Definitely be aware that you all meet for about an hour in the beginning to discuss topics in general."
"All students are requried to volunteer in the community. The grading system is entirely pass/fail."
"there is a get to know you session in the begining...its very informal..so don't stress...some think its a group interview...nooo such thing! Just questions like..where are you from, what school do you go to, your extraciriculars, and a fun fact about yourself."
"I wish I had known about that Q/A session. Here's something helpful: If you have part of your interview at the Exchange (like someone in my group did), call x2143 for a shuttle. ALSO....eat breakfast. You won't eat till 1:30pm....I got hungry during my second interview"
"get to know you session, and a mock problem based learning session to simulate a class pbl session"
"Maybe the "get-to-know-you" session prior to the interview. Some people freaked."
"Always bring an extra pair of pantyhose. I forgot and got a snag getting out of my car. Fortunately the hospital gift shop carries them."
"There were 15 people interviewing alongside me - it seemed clear that every person had CT residency, and attended either (1) UConn or (2) an Ivy League school for undergraduate. Based on what I saw in MSAR, I would advise OOS students to be careful applying here unless you have specific ties to CT. For context, I might be biased, because I interviewed here early on in the cycle and may be n the "first batch" of interview offerings."
"My interview experience here was excellent and this immediately became my top choice even after 14 other interviews."
"After interview day, UConn became my top choice."
"Great experience, left the day incredibly excited about the school."
"I was pleasantly surprised by what UConn had to offer–I am in their combined program in medicine, but I was thinking I would almost certainly go somewhere else. Now, UConn has moved well up my list."
"Great school, would def attend if admitted."
"Very, very relaxed interview day. UConn makes a clear effort to ensure the students are relaxed for their interview."
"Seems like a supportive environment. Hope I get in!"
"Very impressed by the school after the interview experience"
"really research the school. They take pride in their physician-scientist approach, clinical experience, and community service."
"The students have a lot of school spirit in addition to the faculty. It was a long day, but well worth it because meeting everyone was a pleasure."
"Love UConn. The people are fantastic, the sense of community was palpable. Just relax and be yourself. They apparently try to get people that will be comfortable in their tight nit community, so pay attention for those types of things."
"The interview day is such a low stress activity that it is difficult to self-assess how the day went. I did not have to "conquer" a tough question or admit that I was clueless. Hence when the day ended I had no concrete idea of how I may stand in the minds of the interviewers."
"UConn can be a good financial deal for in-state students but I did get a sense that you "get what you pay for" in terms of resources and opportunities."
"Great!"
"2 of the interviews were one-on-one. 1 interview was a group session"
"UConn has a wonderful program. The interview day was a little different than normal (I'm a reapplicant) in that the admissions office was a bit disorganized due to remodeling. Arrived in the morning and was shown to a classroom with all the other applicants. Went around the room and had to introduce ourselves, talk about oyr education background, and had to share a little story. Thinking of a "good one" was the most stressful part of the day! Dr. Sanford gave an overview of the program. Half of the group then left for their faculty interviews and teh rest of stayed. Dr. Sanford asked us to discuss the problems we addressed in our applications. Was low key. Then had a faculty interview and a student interview. Then had a tour and lunch with 2 first years. Day ended earlier than usual. "
"I was impressed by the school, they have a really wonderful program..."
"Arrived in the morning and was shuffled to a conference room where the Dean gave us a presentation of the school and did a small PBL exercise. It was fun and a good taste of PBL, not difficult. Then we get put in a room and have interviews with people (little disorganized). Lunch and tour with students, then Q&A with the Dean of student affairs at the end. Not a bad day, tour was nice. People are friendly. "
"My interview experience was good. I had 3 different interviews, 2 with faculty members and 1 with a student. all the interviews were about 30 minutes long. They were relaxed and very conversational. "
"overall good. It seemed the major goal was to acquaint the applicant with the school. Interviewers just wanted to talk over the important points of the application and get to know you. Make sure your not a creep and all."
"Went into the office and waited, some lady came to get us and bring us to a converence room where we met with Dr. Sanford. He gave us an overview of the school, then gave us a case study and had us discuss what was wrong with the patient step by step and our hypotheses on what could be wrong (not bad at ALL don't worry). Then we waited for our interviewers to pick us up and you went to each one at a time (two faculty and one student interviewer). Then there were two medical students that picked us up and took us to lunch and on a tour of the facilities. They had no bearing whatsoever on the selection process so def ask them lots of questions if you have them. Then we met with the Dean of Students and he also wanted to get our input, feedback and questions because he also didn't have a say in the selection process. Then you're free to go....9:30am-3pm, it def goes the whole day. But it was not stressful, it was my first interview and im glad it was because it put me at ease and made me feel confident in myself."
"An hour session where the assistant dean of admissions talks about the school and does a problem-based learning exercise with the medical students. 3 half-hour interviews. Lunch with the tour guides in the hospital cafeteria and a tour of the medical school. Half hour group session with the dean of the school (or maybe of admissions...I forget which), where he gave us the opportunity to ask more questions and learn more about the school. He said he didn't have any say in the admissions process so it was ''safe'' to ask him any questions."
"i was interviewing for post-bacc, which I understand is basically structured like an actual med school interview. I just didn't get the complete tour, and perhaps the questions weren't as specific when it concerned medicine. but overall, it's very low stress. definitely prepare and take it seriously, but enjoy the ride, because they will try to make you feel very comfortable."
"Very conversational, just making sure you have a personality "
"great day, love the school, very affordable, three interview were not bad at all, really just wanted to get to know me, nice students"
"I had an awesome experience. The interviews were very conversational and pleasant, and it wasn't stressful at all. I love this school's program: early patient contact, incorporation of PBL, extended anatomy course so you are dissecting what you are learning about in the other classes, etc. Out of staters also have the benefit of paying resident tuition after the first year; I don't know of any other public schools that do that. So relax, be yourself, and enjoy the day."
"One interview was stressful because I was asked about things I did not know the answer to mostly non-medically related and very very loosely based on my application. There is a student interview that is open file and more relacxed. And the assistant dean takes the time to interview also, which is good. "
"It was laid back and generally the interviews weren't stressful"
"Arrived at 9:30. Orientation. Three interviews. Lunch and tour. Meet with the dean of school. Exit briefing."
"Everyone was really nice. The school offers a lot of other opportunities if you get into their program, such as research fellowship during the summer, abroad clinicals, MBA's, and 5th year enrichment program..."
"The interview was very relaxing and the students were very friendly. "
"meet with dean and other applicants for introductions, speech and sample PBL. three interviews then tour and lunch and then meet with the head of admisisons for a few minuted, remeet with the dean individually and the go home"
"I had a Saturday interview (the first time UConn ever held interviews on the weekend). the interviews (2 faculty, 1 student) were very laid-back and informal. Admissions staff were helpful and very welcoming."
"Sat. morning interview, was exhausted by the end. The first interviewer was more hardcore -- he had a list of questions and seemed to disapprove a lot. He was really in to research. The second interviewer didn't really have many questions for me and we just chatted for a while."
"This is their first time with Saturday interviews. Personally, I thought it was a great idea. The day started off with an orientation where everybody introduced himself/herself to the group (probably the most intimidating part of the day). Dean Sanford talked about the school's curriculum and other aspects in detail. Dr. Sanford is an extremely nice guy, and I was very appreciative of how comfortable he made us feel throughout the day. My interviews were fairly laid back and stress-free. Then we toured the school a little bit. The anatomy labs have good ventilation (haha) and doesn't feel damped. I really liked the fact that UConn stretches out the anatomy course for a year so that basic science courses correlate to dissections in the anatomy lab. They have plans to renovate the facilities soon, and already have some neat gadgets/resources for the students. All in all, the day was great!"
"The interview day was not stressful at all. The initial meeting with Dean Sanford was probably the most intimidating part, but he was very nice and excited to hear about us. I really liked the school and the sense of community."
"relaxing, not too hard. It was very busy, though. "
"Overall I have no idea how my interviews went. The first guy I interviewed with was a PA (not an MD) who constantly "changed gears" throughout the interview. We starting out talking about my current work in research and then changed gears to delve into my family history - and I mean DELVE. He wanted specifics on where everyone went to school, what they were doing now, how long each of my grandparents have been dead...it was really alarming and I kept thinking "can he really be asking all this" and "why does he want to know all this". And then he proceeded to ask me what I though my role in my family was and why and weird stuff like that. And then we changed gears several more times, but not once did we talk about anything I had done in college - he said that was all covered in my application and he wanted to know about me before college and about my current work. So that interview was weird. The second interview was with an older lady and once again we barely discussed anything in my application other than how I improved my MCAT score and what research I was doing. The rest of the time was spent talking about random other stuff including my family once again, except this time it was more general/basic info unlike the first guy. We talked about photography for a while because I said my younger brother is studying it in school. The weirdest part of this interview was when she asked me if I knew the definition of 'mesmerized' since I had used it in one of my essays. The third interview is with a student and my student interview was fine. She asked questions about my application as well as giving me her impression of the school and stuff like that. At the end of the day I enjoyed interacting with the students during lunch and the student interview, but my interaction with the two faculty members as well as with the deans left me with a negative vibe about the school in general."
"My schedule of interviews was pretty long. They don't provide breakfast so have a good one before coming. As has been said before, you have to tell a story about yourself in the introductory meeting with Dean Sanford."
"HORRIBLE. I got into every other school I interviewed at. Apparently a guy from my college had the same interviewer and was waitlisted as an in-stater. He called to get a re-do interrview, and then got in immediately. Bottom Line: If you get a gyn onc old man interviewer, run out the door before you waste your time."
"Very positive. They made the day as laid back and stress free as possible. The interviewers were friendly. First we were greeted by the dean, asked to give a short summary of our life's activities and a funny fact. Then you go to your interviews, 2 faculty, one student. Then a tour done by med students. "
"Very long but very informative as well. The staff is so supportive and seems to know the student body very well. They seem to be very receptive to students as well."
"Positive. Very informative. Extremely long. In theory it was 3 interviews but in reality there was a fourth because you meet wit hteh dean one on one after the three interviews"
"Overall, it was cool and everyone "seemed" nice. The area is simply too bland for me."
"Orientation and introduction to the school's history/curriculum, three interviews (two doctors, one student), lunch and tour, mock problem-based learning session, meeting with dean of students, exit briefing with dean of admissions"
"overall, very good. 2 faculty interviewers - one was very kind and conversational, the other a little more tough. the third interview was with a student, and a little more informal."
"Very low stress, just relax and be yourself"
"Overall, I found the whole experience to be quite warm and fuzzy -- almost TOO warm and fuzzy!"
"Really enjoyed it besides the location and the facilities. This was my favorite interview so far: very interesting, low stress but at the same my interviewer was able to ask quite a few questions to get to know me."
"It was a wonderful experience and exceeded my expectations. They format the interview day very well, forcing you to break the ice at the start so you get to know everyone immediately. I couldn't tell how "open file" the interview was, my interviewer had my secondary in front of him, but didn't ask any specific questions about my past, so who knows...Schedule: Meet with Dean Sanford, laid-back interviews, lunch, tour, mock PBL session, then exit interviews with Dean Sanford as well...great experience, great school. "
"PBL session. 2 interviews. Tour and lunch. Exit interview with Dean Dr. Sanford."
"Interviewees meet with Dean of Admissions in conference room and share basic information about ourselves with the group. Be prepared to talk about clinical interests, personal interests, and a short story describing who you are. Then we have a faculty interview followed by a student interview. They say both are weighed equally - very unique. These followed by lunch and tour of school. Then problem-based learning session (not evaluated, just for fun)."
"I really got a great impression of the school. I also thought it was really cool that they had us do a sample PBL session during the day."
"Pretty good"
"introduced ourselves to the group, interviewed with a faculty member and then a student, lunch, tour and exit interview with Dean Sanford - a great day!!"
"Overall the school seems like a good environment to learn in. People for the most part were great. Unfortunately, I had a really bad interviewer. He had a huge ego, and recognized that I did not. He scrutinized my record (which is actually pretty strong) and accused me of not being genuinely interested in medicine. Questioned (and almost ridiculed) my sincere desire to help people, explaining that medical school will strip all of that idealism away from me. Ironically, I sensed that he was actually the one with a lack of interest in medicine."
"It was low stress, very laid-back and focused on the interviees. Oh and most of the questions are drawn from the application so it's important that you remember everything that you wrote including the classes you took, programs you were involved in... etc"
"Interviews were very relaxed. Interviewers knew my application almost better than I did, and asked a lot about it. If you've gotten this far in the process you can relax and be yourself. They just want to know if you and the school are a good fit."
"admissions office, meet with dean and other interviewees, introduce yourself (name, where from?, some extra-curric's, tell story about self that explains who you are), meet with faculty interviewer, meet with student interviewer, tour (with lunch), PBL session, option to speak with dean's, fin. really laid back day...definitely don't need to stress, but it did help to prepare."
"It went well. In the beginning as a group you will meet with the dean (Keat Sanford) and have to say a little about yourself and tell a short story that says something about who you are. Then you will have you 2 interviews (1 faculty, 1 student) then go on the tour and eat lunch. Then (as a group) you will participate in a pbl. At the end of the day you will meet with Keat Sanford again to discuss any issues you may have had during the day or to have him answer any lingering questions you may have."
"Hung around the admissions office, taken to a small room and met with the Dean. Asked to introduce myself (name, town, major, research, interesting fact, etc.), taken to interviews (doctor and student), lunch in cafeteria, tour, PBL session, met with Dean of Students. No exit interview my day."
"showed up, met with dean and five other applicants. Discussed ourselves briefly with him. Faculty interview, student interview, lunch with tour guides, tour, 30 minute meeting with dean of med school. fin."
"These are some of the nicest people you will ever meet."
"The day started at 9:30. As an URM, I first met with the HCOP office. At 10 am there was an orientation with the dean of admissions. A brief financial presentation. Then there were two 45 min interviews, one student, one faculty. My interviewers were very laid back, and it felt more like a conversation. After the interviews we had lunch. After lunch was the tour. I was impressed by the newly renovated library. The tour guides were fun to be around. They are first-year students, and they empasized that in med school you still have time for a social life. After the tour, we had a PBL session which was fun. Trying to figure the solution to the problem presented made me feel like I was an up and coming physician. The day ended with an exit briefing with the dean of admissions and a talk with the new dean of students."
"A very positive experience. As a result of this interview, UConn has jumped way up on my list! My interviewers were great, very conversational. We met with the Deans of Admission and Students at separate times, and they really made us feel comfortable. The school even lets you establish residency after your first year if you're out of state so you can pay the much lower in-state tuition."
"UConn seems like an excellent school for both primary care and specialty care. The admissions staff were extremely helpful and the students were very happy. "
"This was my first interview and I was so relaxed. It is hard to think about anything bad because it seemed as if I had long conversations instead of interviews."
"UConn had a great interview session. The admissions staff helped the small group of interviewers relax and break the ice amongst each other. Then the interviews were take care of. In the afternoon, everybody has lunch with the tour guides, a tour, then a problem-based learning session. Everybody was truly relaxed and didn't try to sell the school. "
"I really liked this school (see comments below). I think it would be a great place to study medicine, for a variety of reasons. Connecticut residents are lucky this is their state school."
"This was my first interview. Glad it wasn't stressful! There were 6 other applicants that I met in the morning during a short "getting to know you" session with the dean. We all went our separate ways for two one-on-one 45 min. interviews (1 faculty, 1 student), but we were together again for the tour/lunch/PBL session (doesn't count as part of interview). I was impressed by the attention the Dean and Asst. Dean of Student Affairs gave to everyone as an individual. One woman in our group had a short (10 min.) interview with a faculty member because a pipe burst. The Dean met with her in the afternoon and interviewed her to make sure she got everything across that she wanted to."
"initially i was hesitant to fly out to CT, because i didn't think i had a huge chance as an out-of-stater and thought it would be a waste of money. but according to the admin people, they are trying to increase that number. i just got a good vibe from the students and faculty i met, and am soooo glad i went out there. from the many students i met, i can see myself being friends with all of them. one student and one faculty/physician interviewer. "
"Overall an immensely enjoyable experience. Definitely try to take advantage of the student host program!"
"Pretty low stress for me since it was my second interview. 1 student and 1 faculty interviewer. They have a great program that doesnt get a lot of recognition, however I don't if I could live in Farmington."
"Nice talk with a professor. I felt older than the other interviewees which made me a little nervous. But in general we were all headed for the same goal, so it felt good to talk to people going through the same process."
"A little nervewracking (my finrst interview), but definately positive overall... great school if you dont mind not being in a city and are from CT. Everyone is very friendly and helpful and Dr. Sanford (dean) lets you know when you should hear back with a decision."
"There is a group aspect of the interview-- where you do a PBL (problem based learning session) with the other interviewees. "
"Overall I felt very welcome at UConn and was impressed by attitudes held by faculty and students. Wished I could have had some actual interviews, but they definitely did their best to work things out."
"Overall my experience was really good. My student interviewer never showed up so the dean of admissions interviewed me instead. The people seem extremely supportive and the environment was positive."
"Compared to my other interviews - this one was completely different. I was not even nervous for one minute. Everyone seemed really interested in you & wanted to answer any question that you had."
"We started with a student interview which was extremely low key. The student was very honest about the positive and negative aspects of the school. The physician interview was not quite as relaxed but still pretty conversational. There were not difficult questions."
"Overall, I enjoyed my experience. Although I think its weird that they interview the minority students first...they school is definetely interested in minority students..."
"Excellent, but quirky. My student interviewer wore boots and jeans, and interviewed me on one of the lounge chairs in the lobby/hallway. My faculty interviewer ate a fajita while he interviewed me. He had not looked at my file beforehand; most of his questions were very general (tell me about yourself etc.) My student interviewer had and asked very specific questions. Both interviewers asked me to ask them questions. My faculty interviewer was very honest about the school's shortcomings and made me feel like they wanted me."
"It started out with an information session about UConn..then the student interview (or faculty...but usually student)...then the faculty interview...then lunch and a tour with students...then a PBL session...then an exit interview with Dr. Sanford. It was a great experience. UConn's a very caring place!"
"arrive, greeted by several faculty and staff members. interviews, lunch, tour, pbl session, exit interview with dean"
"This was a great interview experience. You get one student interview and one with a doc/faculty member. It was very laid back. When asked the toughest question, I was honest and said I didn't know what the reimbursement system currently was. It was fine; he explained it to me, and I then answered. We then spoke about New York (where I am from) and food and stuff. Very friendly. The doc was very nice and let me talk when he asked me a question (you will see some do not). Overall, great...low stress."
"Very friendly and laid back. I was interviewing for the Post-Bacc Program. Interviews were with the Dean of Admissions, a faculty member, and a student. Conversational style interview, very low stress. Given a meal ticket for cafeteria, on your own or with other interviewees for lunch. Direct admission medical school intetrview is basically the same format."
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Student | 94 |
| Faculty member | 1 |
| Admissions staff | 3 |
| Other | 1 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Enthusiastic | 58 |
| Neutral | 10 |
| Discouraging | 0 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.17 | 69 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| In state | 40 |
| Out of state | 24 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 0-1 hour | 31 |
| 2-3 hours | 22 |
| 4-6 hours | 9 |
| 7+ hours | 4 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Airplane | 14 |
| Automobile | 49 |
| Train or subway | 1 |
| Other | 3 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| < $100 | 34 |
| $101-$200 | 5 |
| $201-$300 | 4 |
| $301-$400 | 3 |
| $401-$500 | 1 |
| $501+ | 2 |
Detroit
Bradley International
Boston
jfk
BDL
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| At school facility | 0 |
| With students at the school | 9 |
| Friends or family | 18 |
| Hotel | 9 |
| Home | 10 |
| Other | 0 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.17 | 71 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 5.47 | 72 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 5.19 | 72 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.08 | 36 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.86 | 37 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 6.29 | 35 |
"Keep doing what you're doing."
"The interview was great!"
"I would love to have had an online applicant portal to confirm receipt, check status, and upload updates throughout the application cycle."
"Nothing! It was great as is!"
"Have an online site for students to check their application status. Also, give that site the ability to accept secondaries online. I was so nervous that they didn't receive my secondary for some reason because it took a while to respond."
"Nothing. The admissions office is very friendly and responds quickly. Keep doing what you are doing!"
"I actually like how we send in the secondary application in the mail & schedule interviews over the phone. Makes it more personal. However, I think the packet handed out to applicants at the interview could be nicer and more in line with what other schools give out."
We help students become doctors. TM
What is one of the specific questions they asked you (question 1)?