West Virginia Osteopathic Medicine Interview

Questions and Answers

If I called your best friend right now, what's one strength and one weakness they would tell me?

Strength: great work ethic; Weakness: taking too much responsibility/not knowing how to say no

What was a time when you had to work in a team and things didn't go well? How did you work through that?

During Relay for Life, the event got canceled because of COVID. I helped plan an event online, ensuring everyone's input and staying calm.

What are you least prepared for in medical school?

Moving to a new area where I won't know anyone and transitioning into the heavy course load.

What's something that isn't on your application that you would like to share?

I have more research experience involving DNA isolation and gold nanoparticles, and I've begun tutoring biology and chemistry courses. Signup and view all the answers

How do you study?

I look over notes first, seek help for unclear topics, do practice problems, and teach the material to others. Signup and view all the answers

Is compassion something you can teach?

I don't think you can teach someone compassion, as it comes from life experiences. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you want to be a physician?

I want to combine my love for science and people; it allows for problem solving and patient interaction. Signup and view all the answers

Why this path?

I don't see myself doing any other path and feel well-prepared by my involvement and classes. Signup and view all the answers

Why osteopathic medicine in a rural setting?

I understand rural life and want to help address the shortage of physicians in those areas. Signup and view all the answers

What would I do if I knew someone was cheating?

I would confront them and suggest they come forward, explaining it's my ethical duty to report it if they don't. Signup and view all the answers

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully graduating from medical school, in a top choice residency, and contributing to my community. Signup and view all the answers

Why WVSOM?

It's ranked highly for education and residency match rates, emphasizes primary and rural care, and has a beautiful location close to home. Signup and view all the answers

Why DO?

I believe in treating people as a whole and focusing on preventative medicine and education. Signup and view all the answers

Tell us about your journey to medicine OR When did you decide to become a doctor?

I fell in love with science at a young age, knew I wanted to work in healthcare, and majored in biochemistry. Signup and view all the answers

What led you to want to be a DO?

After shadowing a family friend, I loved the philosophy of DO and researched it further. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Interview Questions Overview

Strength identified: great work ethic, known for passion and dedication to work/study.
Recognized weakness: struggles with taking on too much responsibility and asking for help.

Teamwork Experience

Faced challenges during a Relay for Life event that was canceled due to COVID-19.
Transitioned from an in-person event to organizing a quick online event.
Facilitated communication among team members to reach feasible solutions while maintaining a calm atmosphere.

Medical School Preparedness

Concerned about adapting to a new environment and heavy coursework.
Confidence stems from established study habits and support from friends and family.

Additional Qualifications

Engaged in research involving DNA isolation and gold nanoparticles, presenting findings at a conference.
Tutored biology and chemistry courses, finding fulfillment in teaching and student connections.

Study Techniques

Initial review of notes to identify unclear topics.
Utilizes textbooks and professors for clarification and engages in practice problems.
Teaching others about the topic reinforces understanding and discourages last-minute studying.

Compassion in Medicine

Compassion defined but viewed as inherently experiential; not easily teachable.
Personal growth and life experiences shape one's understanding and expression of compassion.

Motivation for Medicine

Desire to merge a love for science and interaction with people.
Interest in diverse roles within medicine: patient care, research, education.
Commitment solidified through relevant volunteer and work experiences.

Commitment to Medicine Path

Clear vision of pursuing a medical career despite its challenges.
Preparation through various involvements and course selections deemed valuable.

Rural Osteopathic Medicine

Personal experience living in a rural area fuels commitment to address physician shortages.
Attending medical school in a rural context enhances understanding and contribution.

Ethical Standards

If witnessing cheating, intention to confront the individual and emphasize ethics.
Upholds moral obligation to report unethical behavior if not voluntarily disclosed.

Future Aspirations

Aiming for completion of medical school and acceptance into a preferred residency within 10 years.
Desire for a balanced personal life, including family and community involvement.

Choice of WVSOM

Recognized as a top-ranked osteopathic medical school with strong education and residency placement rates.
Appeals due to emphasis on primary care, rural health, and familiar, beautiful location.

Philosophy of Osteopathic Medicine

Focus on holistic treatment, considering patient well-being beyond symptoms.
Advocates for preventative medicine and patient education as fundamental aspects of care.

Journey to Medicine

Early fascination with science leading to a desire for a healthcare career.
Majored in biochemistry, gaining insights from medical-related coursework, physician shadowing, and nursing home work experience.

Pathway to Becoming a DO

Inspiration drawn from shadowing a DO, highlighting appealing philosophies associated with osteopathic medicine.
Engaged in research and discussions further reinforcing the decision to pursue the DO path.

Studying That Suits You

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Description

Prepare for your interview at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine with this set of flashcards. Each card presents key questions designed to help you articulate your strengths, weaknesses, and experiences effectively. Practice thoughtful responses to ensure you stand out during your interview.