Happy interview season! So intimidating, yet so exciting. Although I didn’t go through the traditional dental school interview process, I attended one back in Spring 2020 as the last step to secure my guaranteed seat at Pitt Dental. I was with a group of around ten other students, and we each talked to two faculty members for 10-15 minutes each. One of my interviewers was a professor, and one was a resident. Like most people, I was incredibly nervous. But surprisingly, both my interviewers were way more casual and relaxed than I expected. I had to quickly adjust to a new mindset, but in the end they both went well! I have also attended several mock interviews and job interviews, so I’m happy to share some tips with you all!
What to Wear
Usually business casual or business professional attire
Business casual includes collared button-downs and khaki pants for men, modest skirts/dresses, and nicer shirts and blouses with sweaters, cardigans, or blazers for women. This is appropriate for an informal work environment, such as the food industry, retail, a start-up, an on-campus job, or a summer job.
Business professional consists of dark colors, modest clothing, matching two-piece suits, formal shirts and blouses, and closed-toed shoes. This is standard for internships, college and graduate school interviews, and most other industries, such as business and healthcare.
Natural makeup and light jewelry, if any
These accessories should be subtle and not distracting to the interviewer
Neat hair and nails
My favorite place to look for hairstyles is Pinterest!
I would wear a subtle or nude shade of nail polish, or remove any chipped polish.
Purse or pocket for phone
It feels awkward holding your phone during an important interview, so make sure you have somewhere to conceal it.
How to Prepare
Research specific questions in advance
Do a Google search for “X dental school interview questions”. There are several forums on Student Doctor Network or Reddit with sample questions and stories about interview day from students who have interviewed there in the past. Or visit the link here: Interview Feedback https://www.studentdoctor.net/schools/
For other jobs, do an online search for potential questions and answers for your specific role/industry
In both cases, reach out to people you know who may have interviewed at the same school or for the same industry/position
Practice out loud to yourself
And not just in your head. You can catch mistakes and it helps build your confidence and public speaking skills in general!
It’s better to have some basic answers or ideas ready, than being flabbergasted when you don’t have an answer.
Practice answering with a timer
Be mindful of your pace. You don’t want to keep repeating yourself and spend five minutes on one topic, or have a super short answer to any question either.
Have someone mock interview you
Do Q&A with yourself, friends, family members, or mentors using questions you have collected.
How to Present Yourself
Take a folder with your resume and any other relevant documents
This may include your application, recommendation letters, or references
Take a pen to write notes!
Although we’re in a modern era, it doesn’t look professional to take notes on your phone. Make sure to have a piece of paper and a pen handy!
Act professionally from the moment you walk in the door to when you leave
You never know who is watching! Sometimes student ambassadors or administrative
assistants are keeping an eye on how you interact with them or other interviewees.
Prepare questions for the interviewer
“What does a typical day for this role/a student here look like?”
“What are the next steps I should take in this process?”
“What advice would you give incoming students?”
Look at the interviewer's forehead to maintain "eye contact"
I learned this tip at one of my mock interviews in college and it helps ease the awkwardness of staring right into someone’s eyes!
Tips to Calm Your Nerves
Unclench your fingers, toes, and shoulders
Release all the tension and relax your muscles. This helps regulate your breathing (and sweating) when you’re nervous.
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and practical shoes to walk in
Use the 4-7-8 breathing technique
Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold it in for 7, and release it for 8 seconds.This helps slow your heart rate and breathing as well.
See details here: https://www.healthline.com/health/4-7-8-breathing#How-to-do-it-
Be confident!
Landing an interview means you're already halfway to your goal!
I hope you find some of these tips helpful for your next interview! Whether you’re applying to college, grad school, an internship, or a new job, you will do absolutely AMAZING as long as you are confident in yourself. I would love to hear how it goes or if you have any questions, just reach out to me on IG @life.with.ankita!
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