Feeling anxious about the MMI medical interview preparation in 2023? You're not alone!
Getting into medical school was tough in 2022. Many applied (55,188) with lots of applications (990,790), but only 41% got accepted. It was harder due to more applying in fear after 2020. Just 22,712 succeeded.
The multiple mini interview (MMI) is a popular interview format used by many medical schools, and it can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can tackle it with confidence. Here are some tips for handling stress and anxiety during the MMI.
Practice with Mock Interviews
Great way to reduce stress and anxiety is to practice with mock interviews. Many medical schools offer MMI prep courses or mock interview sessions, which can help you get a feel for the interview format and build your confidence.You can also practice with a friend or mentor using sample MMI questions from websites like AcceptMed's MMI interview prep 2023 page.
Develop a Strategy
Having a strategy for the MMI can also help you manage stress and anxiety. Before the interview, take some time to review the school's website and learn about their mission, values, and curriculum. This will help you tailor your answers to fit the school's culture and show that you're a good fit for their program.
Stay Calm and Confident
On interview day, it's important to stay calm and confident. Remember that the interviewers are not trying to trick you or catch you off guard. They simply want to see how you handle different scenarios and how you communicate your thought process. It is important to stay calm and focused during the MMI, to help you with this you can practice some breathing techniques.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is a simple and effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. Here's how to do it:
- Sit comfortably and place one hand on your abdomen.
- Inhale deeply through your nose, feeling your abdomen rise as you breathe in.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your abdomen fall as you breathe out.
- Repeat for several breaths, focusing on the sensation of your breath moving in and out of your body.
Box Breathing
Box breathing is a technique used by many athletes and military personnel to stay focused under pressure. Here's how to do it:
- Sit comfortably and inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Repeat for several cycles, focusing on the rhythm of your breath.
Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate nostril breathing is a yoga technique that can help balance the body and calm the mind. Here's how to do it:
- Sit comfortably and place your left hand on your left knee.
- Use your right thumb to close your right nostril and inhale deeply through your left nostril.
- Use your right ring finger to close your left nostril and exhale slowly through your right nostril.
- Inhale deeply through your right nostril.
- Use your right thumb to close your right nostril and exhale slowly through your left nostril.
- Repeat for several cycles, focusing on the sensation of your breath moving in and out of your body.
By practicing the above breathing techniques before and during the MMI, you can reduce stress and anxiety and perform at your best.
Use Body Language
Finally, don't forget about the importance of body language during the MMI. Make eye contact with the interviewer, speak clearly and confidently, and use appropriate gestures when necessary. This will help you convey your message effectively and show that you're engaged in the conversation.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, getting ready for the MMI interview prep in 2023 might feel a bit scary, but don't worry. With the right attitude and getting prepared, you can totally handle this interview style without any worries. Just practice with pretend interviews, make a plan, stay calm and confident, try some breathing tricks, and use good body language. These things will help you handle stress and nervousness and do your very best on interview day. Don't forget to take care of your mind and body too. Good luck with your MMI prep!
