Medical School Interview WHAT TO WEAR
These are quotes we’ve all heard before and they’ll definitely be running through your mind the day before your medical school interview. But practically how does that translate to what outfit you should wear?
We’ve all been there before. Whether it’s before that big date or that random family event your mum told you about 3 months ago, it always boils down to the same question: “What do I wear?” The age-old conundrum effectively revolves around how you want to portray yourself for the occasion.
A FEW KEY TIPS TO HELP WITH YOUR MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW
After all, your outfit is a representation of your personality and as you walk into the room it’ll be the first thing the medical school interviewer will be able to judge you on. For many people, thinking about what to wear is just an unnecessary hassle at an already stressful time as medical school applicants. However, it doesn’t need to be like this and it’s actually pretty easy, as long as you follow our pretty simple formula.
– HERBERT HAROLD VREELAND
1. MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW WHAT TO WEAR - THE GUY'S GUIDE
- Dark coloured pant suits – navy or black
- Sober tie
- Light coloured shirt – preferably white or light blue
- Dark brown/black leather shoes
For the men amongst you, it is best to follow the advice of legendary fashion icon Barney Stinson and “Suit up”. A well-fitted suit goes a long way to show your intentions. Nothing too flashy but remember it’s not a funeral (even if it might feel like it). Avoid anything too eye catching, for example large pinstripes and bright colours. Simplicity is key to avoid colour clashes. A white or light blue shirt is always a good base to build upon and you can’t really go wrong with classic colours. The tie must be plain, simple, yet effective. A single colour – nothing too bright or distracting. Finally make sure your shoes are clean and well-polished.
Remember that a nice suit only goes with a clean well-ironed shirt! And don’t forget to iron your shirt even if you think that you will keep your jacket on. If you are stressed on the interview day, you might quickly get hot and will feel better if you can take off your jacket.
You might think this is a pretty constrictive guide, but worry not - if you really feel burdened by the lack of creativity on show, you can go wild with your socks. Who knows, they might even find your bright pink flamingo socks endearing. These are, however, suggestions but think about how you would feel in a suit and adapt accordingly if necessary. If a suit is too much for you, a clean and ironed shirt with a pair of simple trouser will do (avoid jeans at all costs).
2. MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW WHAT TO WEAR - GUY'S ACCESSORIES
When considering the rest of the outfit, it is important to consider the practicality of what you’re taking with you. A watch is a good idea to check the time. It seems like an obvious thing to say, but by wearing a watch, you reduce the temptation to check your phone as much. Constantly looking at your phone – even if it is just to check the time might give the wrong impression.
3. MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW WHAT TO WEAR - THE GIRL'S GUIDE
- Dark coloured suit – skirt or trousers
- Light coloured shirt or a top
- Dark, closed shoes
COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND TEAMWORK
Similar to the men’s choice, the preferred option for the ladies is a suit. This can be a skirt suit or a trouser suit, whichever takes your fancy. Dark colours such as navy, black or grey remain the order of the day. A simple white or light coloured shirt would be the best option to wear underneath. Please, please, please avoid low cut tops at all costs. There is no need to overdo anything with the shirt so avoid flamboyant designs – as with all formal interviews simplicity is key!
For the shoes, make sure they are dark coloured, closed-toe and low-heel. Wearing high heels all day will just be uncomfortable and you don’t need anything to distract you from the interview questions itself. Open-toe shoes are too casual and not professional enough for this environment. Again, if you don’t feel comfortable in a suit, a clean and ironed shirt with a nice skirt or a simple dress will do.
4. MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERVIEW WHAT TO WEAR - GIRL'S ACCESSORIES
The first thing to address is hair. Once again, simplicity will go a long way. It’s a medicine interview not a wedding. You don’t need to book a salon appointment before your interview day. Instead employ basic styles that ensure that your hair is out of your face.
Please do not go all out on the make-up either and stick to subtle colours only. Concealer and a touch of mascara may help you to look more alert. When using lipstick, gloss or eyeshadow, use neutral colours.
Jewelry is acceptable as long as it isn’t distracting. Again, keep it basic, such as small stud earrings – avoid big dangling pieces that come anything close to resembling some kind of fortune teller. The same goes for necklaces – a small necklace is fine, but nothing flamboyant.
Following these simple guidelines should go a long way to calming your nerves the day before your medicine interview. If it hasn’t been mentioned enough, there is one main message – keep it simple! Maintain good eye contact throughout, be friendly and professional, and your personality will flow through your answers and general demeanour. After this, you will be 100% ready to tackle whatever comes your way during the medical school interview admissions process!
We hope this guide on what to wear for your medical school interviews was helpful. If you have any further questions on the topic or any other questions relating to your medicine interviews, please contact us at [email protected]!
