What is MMI?

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Interviews can be stressful. There is pressure to look the right way, say the right thing, and showcase the very best version of yourself. Now, imagine going through a series of mini-interviews that test you on ethical decision-making, critical thinking, communication, and current healthcare and societal issues. Sound stressful? Well, it can be. However, this is exactly what the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) interview style does.

The Multiple Mini Interview is a type of interview process that is used to determine whether or not a medical school applicant will go on to become a good doctor. This type of interview style uses a number of stations that test the way applicants react to certain questions and situations. It helps to decide which applicants will be accepted into various medical schools. In fact, most Canadian universities are now using the MMI interview style as part of the admission process.

This type of interview style was developed at McMaster University in 2002. It has since become the standard interview process for Canadian medical schools. The intention of the Multiple Mini Interview is to reduce the issue of interview bias that can occur with more traditional one-on-one candidate interviews. This style allows a number of interviewers to observe the candidates in a variety of scenarios, rather than basing their decision on a question and answer interview.

In the Multiple Mini Interview, medical school candidates are tested in a number of categories. These categories can generally be broken up into four sections: ethical decision-making, critical thinking, communication skills, and current Canadian healthcare and societal issues. All of these directly relate to the future success of a healthcare worker.

Before each mini interview station, candidates are given a question or scenario. They are then allotted a couple of minutes to prepare an appropriate answer. From there, candidates move into an interview room, where they will speak to an interviewer, or assessor for eight minutes. At some stations, the interviewer will observe the candidate in a scenario with an actor in order to gauge their reaction. This process is repeated at several different stations, with the average MMI lasting for two hours.

The most obvious benefit of this type of interview style is that it allows interviewers to look beyond medical knowledge and high marks. It goes deeper than other interview formats. It explores other aspects that contribute to a solid medical professional - maturity, empathy, creativity, societal awareness, and quick thinking, among other things. The MMI truly looks at the qualities that make a successful doctor.

The Multiple Mini Interview can be an overwhelming concept for applicants. Since this interview style can create a lot of stress, it is important to prepare in advance. Start by doing practise MMI questions at home. This will give you a much better understanding of what will be expected of you at the interview stations. It is also a good idea to time your answers in order to learn about pacing your answers. The MMI may sound like a difficult and anxiety inducing process, but some preparation and quick thinking can lead to an unforgettable interview.

Find out more about MMI interview preparations along with our business and life coaching by calling: 647-680-6941. Our experienced Sigsoog coach will be able to help you find success in every aspect of your life.