Joel

In 2022, I undertook medical interviews for the first time. I was so nervous and fidgety in the UQ interview, the interviewer thought I was cheating, (of course, I was not cheating). When I got my offer from UQ, I screamed and ran around the house out of pure joy. Through talking about my medicine experience, I hope to show my experience with the whole interview process and my knowledge about it. I understand what the interviews are like, and how hard they are. I understand that to perform in the interview is a skill that needs to be developed, not responses that need to be rehearsed.

In 2023, I applied for UoN/UNE, feeling much more confident in myself. I prepared completely on my own, without the use of any tutoring or external help. I am proud to say I got my first preference offer of UNE. This endeavour helped me to refine my interview skills, to better understand what worked for me, and what the interviewers liked to hear. I gained better knowledge into the responses the interviewers were looking for, and how to respond effectively in a variety of different interview situations. I used many easily accessible and free resources, as well as made my own resources which I would be happy to share with you.

I would be very grateful to have the opportunity to share some of my experience with someone else. Whilst what worked for me may not work for you, I believe the process of finding out students’ own ways of excelling in interviews is an achievement in itself.