Myth one
“Most of the time there are no right or wrong answers.”
We agree that when it comes to various scenarios that you may be given, there is a range of answers and there is nothing strictly correct or incorrect. However, it is more useful to think of answers as appropriate or inappropriate. Therefore in your preparation, you need to work out what are the underlying themes/ideas and therefore give the appropriate answer accordingly.
Myth two
“You can be given any question so what is the point of preparing in advance.”
We agree that there are hundreds of potential questions that can be asked however there will be certain common themes running through the various different questions. In addition, there are certain specific questions that get asked year after year such as: why do you want to become a dentist, tell me about your work experience and tell us a little bit about yourself. Also importantly is that the more you practice, the more you will feel comfortable when you are actually in the interview room.
Myth three
“I won’t get expert help but I will just read on the internet about interview techniques.”
Although we agree that you will get a lot out of reading interview techniques and questions on the internet or books, there is no substitute for an expert to go through realistic simulations and then giving you expert feedback so that you can improve. If you can get access to a professional then it would help you greatly to gain expertise knowledge that other candidates may not have.
Myth four
“You do not need a detailed extensive knowledge of Dentistry.”
Although we agree that universities do not require you to have an extensive detailed knowledge of dentistry, you must however know concepts that are central to dentistry such as the various dental diseases especially dental caries, tooth wear and periodontal disease, awareness of regulatory guidelines and current topics such as amalgam and fluoride. This will help you on your course, and give you an advantage as you already have a slight insight into the profession.
Myth five
“I’m naturally not good at interviews.”
Every person who goes for an interview will have a different experience. Some people are naturally more comfortable in interviews, they are relaxed when talking to people and can explain themselves and what they know through a conversation. However, some people don’t feel so comfortable talking to people they don’t know. Interviewers will know this and will typically be able to tell if you will be a good candidate from the information you give them. Just try your best to be confident and try to show the interviewer that you know what you’re talking about