My biggest advice is to really think about your experiences and reflect on who you are and what you’ve done over the years. It sounds simple, but it’s actually difficult. During my first interview, I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to say, so I didn’t practice. Once I started answering questions, I realized that knowing what to say is very different from knowing how to say it. It isn’t just about telling the truth – it’s about presenting your experiences in a way that highlights your strengths and shows how you’ve overcome challenges.

I spent time practicing with my wife. She would ask me common interview questions so I could think about my answers, organize my thoughts, and practice communicating them clearly. Even small things like transitioning between topics or enunciating certain words became important.

My first interview was difficult because I was underprepared, but every interview after that became easier. I realized the interviewers already knew my academic background from my application. What they really wanted was to know me as a person – how I work with others, how I communicate, and how I handle stressful situations. I tried to highlight experiences that showed I was a good teammate, someone who communicates well under pressure, and someone people enjoy working with.

One final piece of advice is to be yourself. Programs don’t want to see someone who only talks about medicine. They want to know your hobbies, interests, and the things that make you who you are. I shared what I enjoy doing outside of medicine, and I think that helped them see me as a real person rather than just another applicant.