MMI Preparation for Year 13 Aspiring Medics

End the end of last term, staff and our alumnus, Dr Rob Conway, hosted an evening of MMI preparation for a group of our Year 13s. MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews) are the current type of interviews used by most medical and dental schools in the UK. Applicants complete a series of short interviews, each usually lasting somewhere between five and ten minutes, designed to focus attention on how the applicant performs in a series of standardised situations. They test the candidates aptitude at a number of essential attributes, such as empathy and ethics.

The evening gave our students the chance to experience and practise this format, as well as to receive verbal and written feedback in order to build confidence and focus their preparation in advance of the real interviews. Our thanks to Dr Rob Conway and all the staff, who gave their time to provide this importance opportunity for our medics. We asked students Sofia and Vaibavi about how they fared:

“The MMI session was set up by Mr Owen, with the help of some amazing teachers at the school, as well as Dr Conway. We went through eight different stations, which could come up at the interview. It was great to have the chance to practice under timed conditions and receive feedback on where our weaknesses may be. We have also had the opportunity to speak to and ask questions of two doctors. It was hugely helpful to all applicants, especially those of us who may have been unable to get as much work experience. Everyone in the Sixth Form team has been extremely helpful with our applications – whether that was help with personal statements, references or UCAT preparation. It would have been quite overwhelming without help or guidance from school.”

Sofia Hickmore (13C1)

 

“As a dental applicant, it is helpful that throughout Years 12-13 I have had work experience opportunities such as the West Berkshire hospital medical work experience day and the dental work experience day at Briar’s dental practice. These opportunities have helped to strengthen my application and provide me with a better insight into a career in healthcare. For all healthcare courses, interviews play a vital role in the application process. The mock MMI session provided me with good practice and constructive feedback, which ensured that I was prepared for my interviews. The Sixth Form team have been incredibly approachable and supported me throughout my application process.”

Vaibavi Lakshmi Narayanan (13P2)