DPT  Know

Little Things You Can Do Before And After Your Interview

 

 

 

 

This is going to be one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do! You’ll have butterflies and be really nervous -that’s totally normal! Keep in mind, you got the interview and that is the first part you did all the work you had to do up until that point. Now it is time to shine and be yourself! Programs invite you to interviews to get to know what type of person you are, and how well you will fit in with their school. They also invite you so you can find out if the school is a good fit for you.  One other reason, is to see what type of professional you are from how you are dressed, how you communicate and articulate things, and how you interact with others. I had one University spokesperson tell me that they rarely do Skype interviews/phone interviews because they can’t see you in person. They wanted to see all of you, especially with Skype you may only be dressed professionally from the waist up. I never realized all the small details they looked at!

 

Make sure you’ve done your research on the program

What this means is that you should look up their curriculum, mission statement, pass rates on the NPTE, what kind of trips and activities the DPT class participates in, clinical rotations, the area in which you are applying to, GA/TA postions, tuition waivers, onsite student run clinics, research opportunities for students etc. Ask about these! 

Before I go to any interview or even apply to a school I look at all of these things. For example if there is a class that I noticed they have they really stood out to me I’ll ask about it. this is a small detail, but shows you really are interested and did your homework.  I have had several schools ask me about the mission statements and how I interpret them, so I always try to come up with my own answer. Having questions about the program shows you are extremely interested , also that these are highlights of the program that intrigued you.

Bring a resume

I got this advice from an admissions liaison before an interview. It was one of the best pieces of advice I have ever been given. Every interviewer I have given my resume to is impressed. I even use a cover folder (clear plastic on top and bind on the side) to put it in. It gives them a little more insight to who you are. It also scores tons of brownie points, because it shows your professionalism. In addition it strikes up a conversation, sometimes, where they can get to know you on a personal level. Oh and printing it on resume paper helps too :) If not computer paper is just as good.

Thank you email and cards

I have done this after every interview. I usually send a thank you email to the professor who interviewed me for their time, and also to the program for the interview offer. This also shows professionalism, and that you valued the interview. This is not to say that if you do not do these things that you won’t get accepted, its just a nice gesture. I’m huge on thank you cards for any job interview, or if anyone does me a favor. It is the thought that counts

I hope these small tips help!

Look out for my other" Interview Advice" posts! I will be doing one for : How to prep BEFORE the interview and Interview Questions!