Kansas City University Medical School Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Talk about a time when you motivated yourself to complete a task or assignment that was unappealing to you.
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to know that you are the type of person who will still get your work done even when you aren't excited about the task. Your response aims to show that you are a reliable student who will remain motivated while attending the College of Osteopathic Medicine program at Kansas City University.
To answer, tell the admissions team about a specific situation in which you completed something you didn't feel motivated to do. Outline the situation, describe your responsibility, and explain why you were not excited about it. Be sure to tell the interviewers that even though you were not enthusiastic about the task, you did it promptly and with care. Give as much detail as possible about your actions to reach the finish line. If your hard work made a measurable impact, be sure to discuss the accomplishment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"(Situation) I spend the summer months working in my mom's medical clinic. Recently, she asked me to clean out the clinic's huge supply closet. (Task) It was a daunting job. The room was very disorganized and had been a neglected task for some time. I knew it was up to me to put my whole heart into the task to make the lives of my co-workers so much better through the art of organization. (Action) Over the next four days, I came to work prepared with comfortable clothes and shoes and tackled the job. I created a pile for keep, one for recycling, one for donating, and one for the garbage. (Result) In the end, the supply room looked like an office supply store! Everyone appreciated my hard work, and I was glad that I chose to shift my mindset and find the motivation to get the job done with enthusiasm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Behavioral
2. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. When you work in the medical field, those setbacks can be amplified. Even more so when attending med school because your grades can significantly determine your career trajectory. Discuss with the KCU-COM admissions team how you typically cope with setbacks.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a project that I have put a lot of time and effort into. I understand that setbacks happen to everyone - despite their level of expertise or years of experience. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief internally, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a mentor. Then, I move on. Rather than dwell on my mistakes, I choose to learn from them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Career Goals
3. When you become a physician, how will you improve the profession?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University wants to see evidence that you plan on making a positive and lasting impact on the medical profession. Perhaps you desire to work with a particular population or community. Maybe your vow as a physician is to teach your patients that being diligent about a specific aspect of their health positively impacts their overall well-being. Discuss with passion and enthusiasm how you plan to improve the medical profession and use your skills for the greater good. To provide a memorable response, be as specific as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I have chosen to become a physician because of the broad impact I can make on my patients, their families, and my community as a whole. Being a General Practitioner is a career where I can impact others by getting to know my patients more closely than many other specialists and providers. As a GP, I will improve the profession by bringing whole-health knowledge and mindset to my patients. When my patients feel motivated and empowered to take their entire health into their hands, it will create a trickle-down effect on other aspects of their lives, including their family members' well-being. This ripple will help create greater respect for general health care, improving how the public views our profession and how often patients visit their GP for regular checkups."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Career Goals
4. As a physician, you can work in hospitals, public and private care facilities, or become an entrepreneur and open your own practice. What kind of work setting do you want to explore after graduating from med school?
How to Answer
As a medical school graduate, you can find work in various fields, including hospitals, public care facilities, private practices, and more. You could even take an entrepreneurial route and open your own clinic one day. There are many choices available to you as an aspiring medical professional. The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to know which option is most appealing to you at this point in your journey.
You certainly do not need to offer a definitive answer as though you have your career path entirely laid out already. Have a conversation with the admissions interviewer about your current interests. Remember - your goals will change. This question is not meant to push you into one type of work setting. Instead, it's a way for the admissions team to learn more about your interests and gauge the thoughtfulness and consideration you've put into your career journey as a medical professional.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"At this time, working in a hospital setting appeals to me the most. In addition to the variety of experiences I will face, I would have the opportunity to learn from a significant range of medical professionals across numerous specialties. I understand that once I have completed the COM program at KCU, I will have gained exposure to numerous work environments and opportunities, potentially leading me down another path of interest. I look forward to learning more about how I can positively impact others as a medical professional across a range of health care settings."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Common
5. Tell us about an area of weakness that you would like to improve on while attending Kansas City University.
How to Answer
Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for your success as a medical student. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan to improve this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe I could improve my written and verbal communication skills as I tend to be longer-winded than I would like to be at times. I enrolled in a week-long workshop this summer, intending to become a more eloquent communicator. I hope to gain skills in this workshop that I can continue to utilize during my university career."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Competency
6. Why do you believe that you will be an excellent medical professional?
How to Answer
Personal questions like this require reflection and the ability to speak about yourself in a way that showcases your strengths but still comes across as humble. Think about why you want to be a medical professional and what led you to this educational path. When you answer, be honest while connecting your top qualities, life experiences, and the core requirements of a successful medical professional.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I know I will be an excellent medical professional because I am naturally curious, empathetic, confident, and a strong problem solver. Having always known that I want to be in the medical field, taking care of others, I chose to pursue my interest by volunteering at our local hospital two days per week. My interest only grew as I saw physicians being able to help others live their best lives while reaching their own highest pursuits. I care about humanity and ensuring people are as healthy as possible. While pursuing my undergrad, this desire to help others only grew. Now, recently completing an internship under a general practitioner, I have grown my skills in empathy and gained a fuller understanding of the patient-centered approach. These combined skills, qualities, and experiences give me the confidence to succeed as a medical professional, especially after receiving top-notch education from Kansas City University's COM program."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Critical Thinking
7. Which is more important to you; changing behaviors to prevent disease or working harder to treat existing disease?
How to Answer
Whether it's behavior change or disease prevention, the admissions team at Kansas City University wants to see where you would choose to focus most of your efforts. Clearly express your preference for either changing behaviors to prevent disease or to work harder to treat existing disease. Be ready to support your reasoning.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"Behavior modification is incredibly challenging, and I believe that change is a process, not an event. In many medical studies, we see that change can take six months or more, as humans tend to contemplate change for much longer than is usually necessary. Once someone is aware of a problem in their health, it often takes a long time to commit to action and change. For that reason, I would choose to put most of my efforts into treating existing diseases and improving the lives of those suffering from illness while, at the same time, working in the background to create change over time. I could do this by educating the patients I treat and encouraging them to take small steps towards change. In the case of a smoker, for instance, they may be contemplating, 'If I quit smoking, I will reduce the risk of heart disease, but I will also gain weight.' Rather than fighting their thought process, I would encourage them to cut back over time, reducing their commitment to cigarettes just one cigarette at a time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Critical Thinking
8. Talk about one challenge the medical community is currently facing.
How to Answer
As an aspiring medical student, you must show a keen interest in the events and concerns the medical community faces today. Show the admissions team at KCU that you have a genuine interest, and you invest time to follow the challenges the medical industry faces. The interviewers want to see that your interest is deep and that you spend time learning and understanding the challenges you will face in your future career as a medical professional.
Discuss what you believe is a significant challenge the medical industry faces. This question presents an opportunity to start a very insightful conversation with your admissions interviewer. Be sure to include potential solutions so that your response feels well-rounded and hopeful versus only dropping a problem.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"One challenge I have been learning about is how cyber-security is lacking when protecting the new technology the medical industry has adapted. A lot of new healthcare technology now requires an internet connection, with results in potential issues around hacking and cyber-attacks. For example, the United States government issued a warning a few years ago that hackers would even be able to instruct infusion pumps to deliver lethal medication doses. If malicious programmers can infiltrate medical devices and hurt patients, steal research, or leak clinical trial data, this is a serious issue to be addressed immediately. To start, the medical industry needs to quickly adopt cyber protection acts similar to those that financial institutions adopt. These developments in health tech are amazing and often life-saving; however, organizations are now incurring added expenses to implement precautions against hacking. According to an IBM report, the average cost of healthcare data breaches rose to $7.1M in 2020. The FDA had some strong suggestions, such as encouraging manufacturers to limit equipment access to trusted users. Other IT experts suggest that medical organizations structure their proprietary networks with much more care."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Critical Thinking
9. If you were given the opportunity to change one thing about the healthcare system, what would you choose to do?
How to Answer
Another policy-based question, this query also looks for your professional perspective. The panel wants to see that you are knowledgeable about the healthcare system in your region, showing a keen understanding of the challenges you might face as a medical provider. It is easy to spend time picking apart the healthcare system; however, this question also urges you to take time for reflection and give your perspective and ideas on how to create positive change. Pick your topic of choice and be ready to provide a balanced view of what you would do to create change.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe the biggest opportunity for change with the US-based healthcare system is the unequal access to healthcare benefits. People who are not provided coverage through an employer, students, and new immigrants - many people cannot afford the hundreds of dollars per month that it can cost to purchase individual health insurance. This issue leaves many people in a healthcare crisis feeling lost and desperate. If I could make changes to repair this issue, I would begin by looking at other government structures where access to healthcare is much better. For instance, in the Netherlands, most people have easy access to primary care centers. Health insurance is mandatory; however, it is much more affordable and accessible than our choices here in the USA. If I could make a change, I would entertain an offering similar to that in the Netherlands or even Switzerland, which includes universal coverage through mandatory yet affordable private insurance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Critical Thinking
10. How would you like to see the delivery of healthcare evolve?
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU wants to understand where you feel healthcare could most evolve. Perhaps you feel that healthcare can best evolve through more patient-focused care. Maybe you think care coordination and synergy within the administration is the fastest way to improve healthcare. Whatever your answer, be sure to maintain a hopeful stance and complete your answer by describing how you feel healthcare is currently evolving.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I would like to see health-based organizations and facilities put more effort into putting their patients at the center of everything they do. This re-focus could mean cutting down wait times, improving hospitals' safety, and even engaging with the community more often, so there is a greater level of trust and comfort-ability. I believe that we are evolving fast, and I am happy to see how far this patient-centered attitude has come since I started my educational path within medicine."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Critical Thinking
11. How do you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, physician assisted suicide, and cloning?
How to Answer
Questions like this can be tricky, so note the question's wording. The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to see how you navigate controversial topics. They are not asking for your opinion on these topics. Discuss how you remain tactful when controversial topics arise.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"When it comes to controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, physician-assisted suicide, and cloning, I will give my opinions more freely in a social setting with friends versus in the workplace or around patients. If at work, I would try to keep my personal opinion to myself or at the very least remain diplomatic by expressing how each side has their right to an opinion."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Diligence
12. Kansas City University exercises strong discernment when accepting students. What will you do next if you are not accepted into our College of Osteopathic Medicine this cycle?
How to Answer
KCU-COM accepts only the best and brightest every year, with total medical enrolment under 1,800 students annually. To be admitted as a KCU-COM student, you must show a diversity of accomplishments, talents, interests, and backgrounds. The school also looks for students who demonstrate academic excellence. A bachelor's degree and the MCAT are required for admission. The admissions team at KCU-COM spends time carefully evaluating applicants on criteria ranging from educational records and test scores to their commitment to osteopathic medicine, service, and leadership.
Knowing the competition for entry, the admissions team wants to see that you have thought through all options and scenarios if you do not earn acceptance into KCU-COM. How you respond to this type of question should show the admissions team that your interest in a medical career runs deep and that you would not give up if you received a rejection on your first attempt.
If you are not accepted, show the admissions team that it will not be the end of your journey. Perhaps you would take the time to upgrade, apply to new schools, or entertain a different path in the medical field. Alternatively, you can let the admissions interviewers know that one rejection won't stop you. Talk about your plan to qualify better and reapply when ready. Whichever way you respond, show the admissions team that you have the confidence and drive to achieve your goals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that the role of admissions is challenging, and I appreciate the discernment that KCU-COM applies when deciding which students to accept into its program. My purpose in this life is to become a physician and use my qualifications, diverse background, and human-centered approach to serve my community. If I am not accepted this cycle, I will continue to improve the weaknesses in my application. Then, when I feel ready, I will re-apply."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Diligence
13. Walk us through your approach to studying for exams.
How to Answer
The greater your academic performance, the better it will reflect on Kansas City University and the College of Osteopathic Medicine. For this reason, the admissions team wants to choose students who will be diligent in their studies and perform well on exams.
Talk to the admissions team about your study approach, highlighting your diligence. Perhaps you create your own study aids. Maybe you prefer to prepare for exams in a group setting. Whatever your system, take the time to walk the interviewers through your study process with as much detail as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a well-organized student and have a study plan that works very well for me. When I prepare for a specific exam, I will map out the content I need to learn and divide that content over the number of days I have available to prepare. When creating a study calendar, I leave the final three days leading up to the exam to review the entire library of content. I am a big fan of study aids, as I believe they work much better than simply reading and re-reading the materials. Aids such as flashcards are also much more helpful than highlighting my notes. I also create practice problems and, when possible, will pair up with fellow students to test each other in written form or verbal lightning rounds. My approach has been successful, as reflected in my overall GPA."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Diligence
14. How to you plan to continue educating yourself on best practices and new therapies after completing medical school?
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to know that you're invested in your career path as a medical professional. This enthusiasm includes having a plan for continued career development and learning. As a practicing medical community member, you will need to continue your education and stay on top of new medical trends, news, breakthroughs, and treatments. Discuss how you plan to continue your education, and express your enthusiasm for continued growth and learning in your field.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"Keeping my education and training current and up-to-date is essential to my success as a medical professional. I plan to take at least two continuing education courses annually and keep up-to-date with journals like The New England Journal of Medicine and JAMA. I recently read an article focusing on the scarcity of medical professionals who can communicate with patients in sign language. This motivated me to take an American Sign Language class, which I greatly enjoyed. I believe it's critical to my success and the betterment of my patients that I keep myself in the know on emerging medical best practices and treatments."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Diligence
15. Which medical-related newspapers, journals, or publications do you read to stay in touch with new medical discoveries and current events?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University wants to see that you have a keen interest in continually learning your craft. The medical industry is ever-changing, so be prepared to talk about how you stay up to date on industry trends, breakthroughs, social concerns, and more.
List a couple of medical journals that you like to read and discuss how often you dive into medical-related news. Perhaps you subscribe to a particular magazine or blog or follow certain social media accounts.
It's also a great idea to ask the interviewers about their favorite ways to stay in touch on medical-related current events. Asking this question in return can make for great dialogue, and you never know what you will learn.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am sure to read PLOS Magazine and The Lancet regularly. I also subscribe to Kaiser Health News and The Wall Street Journal Health Blog. Diversifying where my news comes from is important, and I would love fresh suggestions. Are there any specific resources that KCU recommends to its medical program students?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Diligence
16. Before applying to the College of Osteopathic Medicine, what inquiries did you make on Kansas City University?
How to Answer
The admissions team wants to know which considerations you put in before sending your application to Kansas City University's College of Osteopathic Medicine. The interviewers do not want to hear that you randomly sent out a million applications, hoping something would stick. Talk to the admissions team about the careful consideration you put into your KCU-COM application.
Some methods of consideration could have been:
- Talking to/interviewing KCU-COM alumni
- Attending an open house at KCU
- Extensive online research
- Researching notable KCU-COM graduates
- Meeting with a career counselor and asking for recommendations
- Speaking with a current student at Kansas City University, specifically someone in your program of interest
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I started by researching Kansas City University's values and how the setup of the COM program. Then, I talked to KCU-COM alumni to find out what they enjoyed most about the program. I also asked them if there were any notable areas for improvement. What stood out to me is that KCU's vision is to be student-centered so that its graduates will be patient-centered. It's important to me that my education is from a notable school. Knowing that KCU is one of the original osteopathic medical schools in the United States makes me confident that I would receive unmatched education here. I was pleased to discover that KCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and that the College of Osteopathic Medicine is accredited by the AOA."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Direct
17. What other medical school options are you entertaining, and where does Kansas City University's College of Osteopathic Medicine rank on your list of options?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University would like to understand the types of schools you are interested in. Knowing where you are applying will help them understand better if Kansas City University meets your specific needs and educational desires or goals. You should be transparent when answering this question but avoid saying anything offensive, such as 'this school is my last choice.' Choose the number one reason you want to attend KCU and focus on that.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"KCU-COM is my top choice for medical school. I have also applied to Saint Louis University and the University of Kansas because they are close to my family and support system. I am drawn to KCU because of its location and the school's mission to be student-centered so that the graduates can be patient-entered. KCU's mission to train highly competent and compassionate physicians is a significant reason why this school ranks so high on my list of desirable schools."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Direct
18. What do you know about Kansas City University and the College of Osteopathic Medicine?
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU has seen hundreds of applicants, so a question like this is an opportunity for you to stand out from others. If you are lucky enough to land an interview at this esteemed school, make a considerable effort to research the school and its unique offerings. You don't need to be an expert on KCU-COM's entire history, but you must be knowledgeable about the programs and culture.
You should also be familiar with the recent accolades for which the school has received recognition. Search the KCU website and take note of any recent news articles, events, or contributions they have made to the community or student body. Identify the University's mission and values so that you can be clear on what they stand for and how it's a match for your education aspirations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I did considerable research on Kansas City University before applying to the College of Osteopathic Medicine. What captured my interest initially is that the school is a fully accredited, private, not-for-profit health sciences university. I also found it impressive that KCU has two avenues: the College of Biosciences and the College of Osteopathic Medicine. The College of Osteopathic Medicine is the eighth largest medical school in the US and still ranks as the tenth most affordable private medical college, which is an incredible accomplishment. Founded in 1916, KCU is the leading producer of physicians for the state of Missouri - a significant accolade. I appreciate that KCU offers multiple graduate degrees, including DO, PsyD, MA, and MS. Also, congratulations on the College of Dental Medicine scheduled for its first enrolment in 2023! I am eager to learn more about KCU, the medical programs, and the campus life."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Direct
19. Why should KCU-COM accept you over another med school applicant with the same qualifications?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University's College of Osteopathic Medicine wants to know which factors make you stand out from the other aspiring students vying for admission.
Think about factors that are unique to you, ensuring you give a response tailored to your achievements and best qualities. Some things that make you a stand-out applicant to KCU-COM could be:
- Skills such as speaking multiple languages
- An additional degree, diploma, or certification
- A memorable story of your personal struggle and triumph
- Avid volunteer work related to your interest in the medical field
- Proof that you continually focus on personal and professional development
When responding, be sure your answer exudes passion and interest in being awarded a spot at Kansas City University.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
1st Answer Example
"What sets me apart from other applicants with the same qualifications is my dedication to pursuing a medical career. Since the age of 16, I have set my sights on attending medical school, and I have never wavered on that goal. I did not switch majors or opt for an easier course schedule throughout my undergraduate studies. I consistently prepared myself by taking high-level coursework and setting high result standards in everything I do. My unwavering dedication will see me through medical school with levels of success that other applicants may not generate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Two main factors set me apart from other med school applicants. First, I have demonstrated outstanding dedication to this profession, as evidenced by my work inside and outside the classroom. Inside the classroom, my grades have been stellar and consistent. Outside the classroom, I dedicate time to serving others in numerous volunteer capacities. Second, I regularly seek out additional educational opportunities to continue gaining new knowledge related to medicine. For instance, during high school, I took online courses to prepare for my career in the medical field. In addition to my high school studies, I completed coursework like Anatomy & Physiology, Physical Science Physics, and Forensic Science."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Direct
20. What do you know about Kansas City University's Center for Medical Education Innovation?
How to Answer
In 2020, Kansas City University (KCU) opened its new Center for Medical Education Innovation (CMEI). This 54,000-square-foot teaching facility allows students hands-on learning experiences through the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. Students can experience real-world simulations. In addition to VR and AR tech, the center houses ICU simulation sites, medical robots, 22 standardized patient rooms, and a 70-bay lab for physical diagnosis and osteopathic manipulative medicine.
Show the admissions team that you are genuinely excited about the incredible opportunities its Center for Medical Education Innovation will offer you as a KCU-COM student.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"Before applying to Kansas City University, I performed a great deal of research on KCU and the Center for Medical Education Innovation. The CMEI is a large facility that opened in 2020 with a focus on bringing medical education transitions from imagination to reality. It's boasted as a one-of-a-kind teaching facility that allows students to learn by doing through the use of virtual reality and augmented reality technology. In addition to the VR and AR technology, the CMEI offers ICU simulation sites, medical robots, 22 standardized patient rooms, and a 70-bay lab for physical diagnosis and osteopathic manipulative medicine. This is a fascinating development to the already competitive offerings at KCU. No other medical school in the country has this extent of application-based technology under a single roof. I look forward to learning how to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients in repetition with real-world simulation and believe this experience will be an incredible advantage to me as a medical professional."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Discovery
21. Who in the medical field do you admire, and why?
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to know more about who inspires you in your career and path as a medical student. Take your time to discuss a person you admire, highlighting why you look up to them. Be as specific as you can regarding this person's influence on you, and let your admiration shine through.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"My mom has always inspired me to persevere through life's obstacles because these challenges are learning experiences and opportunities to build my character. There were times when some academic challenges felt impossible to overcome. Still, she reminded me of the tenacity and grit required to reach my goal of being accepted into medical school. Her wisdom shifted my mindset from 'unfair' to 'opportunity,' and I could never thank her enough for that gift."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Discovery
22. Earlier, you said that (X) is your favorite medical topic right now. Why is that so?
How to Answer
By understanding your most substantial areas of interest, the admissions team at KCU-COM can better predict which courses you will enjoy most and how you will fit into their student population and education culture. Take your time to talk about your strongest interests in the medical field, and be sure to include the 'why' behind your interests.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"At this point in my medical studies, I am most interested in brain injuries and their impact on our quality of life. I bring the compassion required to make a difference in this therapeutic area. I saw my brother's communication and physical abilities shift quite dramatically after sustaining a concussion from a hit during a football game. My parents took him to many doctors' appointments, physical therapy, and speech therapy sessions. After a few months of seeing a series of medical professionals, I was mesmerized by the change I saw in him. I am fascinated by neurological science and am eager to learn more while attending the COM program at Kansas City University."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Discovery
23. Kansas City University has two campus options, Kansas City Campus and Joplin Campus. Which campus would you like to join, and why?
How to Answer
Kansas City University offers two beautiful campus options. The admissions team at KCU would like to see that you've researched the school and its offerings. Show that you know the campus options available to you, and be honest about your preferences when you answer.
Kansas City Campus: Founded in 1916, this campus has upgraded buildings and technology. This campus offers 'state-of-the-art facilities, a welcoming environment, and the highest quality technology.' You have access to a social hub of dining, arts, and entertainment off-campus.
Joplin Campus: The university describes this campus as providing a 'midwest charm at a cultural crossroads.' The Joplin campus is ideal for nature lovers as it is close to scenic locations like the Chert Glades in Wildcat Glades Park or the Grand Falls on Shoal Creek. Joplin is becoming known as an excellent place for foodies! It also has an active art scene.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"It was challenging to decide which KCU campus was most enticing to me! I researched the respective cities and considered which one I could happily live in for the next few years. I found that Joplin's advantages were that it's a smaller, more intertwined town. Kansas City has other major medical institutions, so I wondered if I would feel 'lost in the crowd,' so to speak. Since the curriculum is the same in both locations, I would prefer the vibe of the Joplin campus. I am a big foodie, art enthusiast, and lover of the outdoors so I look forward to taking advantage of the scenery surrounding the Joplin campus."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Discovery
24. Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University would like to know you apart from what is written on your CV and school transcripts. You are certainly not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your relationship status, for instance. Stick with some interesting facts to show the interviewers at KCU that you are a real person, too.
Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! At the end of your response, remember to connect the factors you discuss and how they will ensure that you are a stellar med student and future physician.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last 3 years to compete in various races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. I believe my competitive nature will benefit me as a medical student and future physician. I will have a consistent drive to deliver my best work while showing an innate need to remain top-of-the-game as a provider."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Discovery
25. Medical school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at Kansas City University (KCU), and beyond?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University wants assurance that you can afford the tuition associated with attending its College of Osteopathic Medicine. When discussing financial matters, be honest yet avoid providing too much personal information. Your answer should be straightforward and sound confident. Let the admissions team know that you have given thought to this financial commitment and that you have a plan for your medical school funding.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have been making financial arrangements for the last three years to ensure that I can afford the commitment of medical school. I am proud to say that my finances are in good order."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I started planning my medical school finances last year and was very careful when determining how much loan assistance to request. I started by asking for and implementing sound financial advice from previous medical students to ensure that my financial plan was realistic. Overall, I am confident in my financial plan and am ready to commit to attending KCU-COM."
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Job Satisfaction
26. KCU-COM looks for students with a genuine passion for a career in medicine. What appeals to you most about becoming a member of the professional medical community?
How to Answer
The admissions team would like to understand what drives your pursuit of a career in the medical field. Your core passion will keep you going on the most challenging days while attending Kansas City University's COM program. This passion will also be what grounds you on the most difficult day at work.
Perhaps you are driven by excellent job prospects or the stability that a career in medicine could provide. Maybe it's your passion to be of service to others by nurturing their health. Whatever drives your interest, make sure the admissions team at KCU can feel your love for a career path in the medical field. If you feel comfortable doing so, share a personal story that ties into your passion for becoming a medical community member.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"If I had to pinpoint one main driver, I would say that improving the health of others is the most significant. I desire the opportunity to improve the health and lives of people in my care and my community. The most significant interactions have been when I am of service to others. As a medical professional, I will put all my efforts into bettering the lives of others. Everyone deserves great health care, and I plan to live that mantra by being the best at what I do, and giving my all to my patients, every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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Scenario Based
27. As a physician, you will be faced with death on a daily basis. How will you professionally cope with this reality?
How to Answer
The admissions team at KCU-COM wants to know that you understand that dealing with death and critical illness is a workplace reality for a medical professional. Assure the admissions interviewers that you can handle this reality that you will face after graduating from medical school.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I recently read a paper by Dr. Lea Baider and Dr. Simon Wein on the realities of physicians facing death regularly. The paper suggested that physicians who are successful in dealing with death at appropriate times do so by compartmentalizing their day's events. The paper went on to say that if a physician is to split the mechanics of the problem from the emotional side, the physician can continue to function without the emotions getting in the way. This is an excellent recommendation, but it is also important to choose an appropriate time to address those emotions. For me, this would perhaps mean having a mentor or even counselor whom I could visit regularly. Also, not internalizing a death or placing blame on myself for the event."
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Scenario Based
28. Talk to us about your experience and thoughts on handling blood and other bodily fluids. You will be subject to difficult scenarios in your role as a physician. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
The admissions team at Kansas City University wants to know that you can handle the difficult sights and experiences you will encounter in your career as a physician. You can keep your answer simple by discussing your ability to handle events involving blood and other bodily fluids.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I have never been a queasy individual, and I fully understand the types of cases I will see in my career as a physician. Currently, I work part-time at our local drop-in shelter and have seen a wide range of situations involving blood and such. I don't think about the gore but more about the fact that it's a human who needs my help. I believe this mentality will get me through any gruesome or undesirable situation."
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Trust
29. Are there any situations when a physician is justified in lying to a patient?
How to Answer
With this question, the admissions team is questioning your knowledge, character, and ethics at the same time. Prepare a well-versed answer for this question as it may come up many times during medical school and into your career. Research the concept of 'therapeutic privilege' and then create your response. Your answer should be straightforward and not convoluted.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that the only reason a physician should withhold information from a patient is under the premise of therapeutic privilege. This concept describes situations where a patient could be a threat to themselves if the physician fully disclosed the details of their medical situation. This concept generally refers to the patient being a psychological threat to themselves. Although there is support for this idea, I do not feel that it should be exercised unless the case is extreme. Physicians have a fiduciary duty to their patients, which must be taken seriously."
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Trust
30. If you discovered that a classmate was cheating, how would you react?
How to Answer
This challenging question is meant to reveal how you deal with ethically-challenging situations. The Admissions Committee at the University of Missouri is looking for evidence that you have the strong mind and personal character required to be a trusted medical professional.
Being a trusted medical professional may sometimes mean making uncomfortable decisions. Show the admissions team at KCU-COM that you value honesty above all else and that you would react to cheating in a way that shows leadership and integrity.
If you have found yourself in a situation like this, you can draw on this example when you respond by telling a brief story. Of course, be careful not to name anyone outright. Instead, focus on the way you reacted and helped resolve the situation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"The medical field should only support honorable people who do the right thing and vow to do no harm. If I encountered a classmate cheating, I would discreetly tell the administration, a professor, or a dean to ensure the situation was resolved quickly and with minimal disruption to others. An honorable person will do what is right even when nobody is looking, and a career in medicine must remain open only to those with integrity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 1st, 2022
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