Why should our school accept you over another optometry student with the same qualifications?

How to Answer
Answer Example
Community Answers

The interviewers are looking for unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the other students wishing to attend their university.

Put yourself in their position. You are looking at multiple talented candidates, all have stellar grades, all have drive, and all have potential to be renowned alumni. What would be the primary reason to choose YOU over everyone else?

Some things that make you a stand out candidate:

- Recent volunteer work

- An existing connection to the faculty or facility

- A memorable and personal story of struggle and triumph

- An unusual skill such as speaking multiple languages, or knowing sign language

- An additional degree, diploma, or certification

- Proof that you continually focus on personal and professional development

"I believe I am the strongest student for your optometry program because I am incredibly dedicated to my professional and personal development. Since beginning my undergraduate program I have committed to taking a personal development workshop twice per year. The topics have included communication, person-ability, multi-tasking, organization, and even persuasive writing. I plan to take these skills and apply them to my graduate studies as well."

Anonymous Answer

"I cannot say whether others are better than me because I don't know them. But, what makes me unique is that I am hard-working and I have a never-give-up strategy. I have proved time and again that I never allow a failure to reoccur. For example, I have improved my grades each semester and I've been involved in community service."

Rachelle's Feedback

Your approach is gentle and humble while also being confident at the same time. I have offered some help below, where I believe you could expand your response and strengthen your case by 'showing' rather than just 'telling.'

"I cannot say that I am better than another applicant; however, I can share with you what makes me unique. I have overcome many challenges in life while maintaining a positive mindset. I live by a 'never give up' philosophy, and I have proved it time and again (give real-life examples of overcoming challenges). I learn from setbacks and never see failure as defeat (provide an example). I have shown dedication by improving my grades every semester while also being involved in community service efforts (describe these efforts). I will contribute to your schools' community by (what positive factors will you add to the school, should they choose you?"

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"I feel as though I have a strong application that portrays my desire to study Optometry. I am committed to this career, having undertaken work experience to not only develop my curiosity and understanding but appreciate the fast-paced environment that's always changing. I obtained a varied skill set, which includes; empathy, dextrous skills, and the ability to maintain focus for prolonged periods of time, which I believe will enable me to become a confident Optometrist."

Rachelle's Feedback

You sound confident, indeed! In addition to this, are there any academic accolades, volunteer experience, etc. that would set you apart?

Anonymous Answer

"While I can't say I'm better than any other candidate I can say that if I am accepted I will bring a range of desirable qualities to the profession. I am driven and hard-working with a desire to succeed, qualities I will use to excel at my studies. I am also patient, understanding, and caring, qualities I will bring to providing excellent patient care."

Marcie's Feedback

This interview question is the perfect opportunity to really sell yourself. Don't be bashful (in other words, avoid saying 'While I can't say I'm better than any other candidate'... instead, say, 'I'm confident that you should choose me over another student with the same qualifications because...'). You've included many great qualities, but don't forget to talk about the skills, education, and experience that you also bring to the table. Excellent job!