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Cracking the AKU Interview - A Step-by-Step Guide

Well, well, well! The top 300, huh? Congratulations, my friend! You have made it from a whopping pool of 7000 candidates, and that is no small feat. So go ahead and give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back because you absolutely earned it!

Now, we are on the verge of taking that all-important step to crack the top 100, securing your spot in the new batch at AKU. And guess who is here to lend a helping hand? That's right, it's me, Aqsa Amjad, a second-year student at The Aga Khan University and Dahir Ashfaq, a first-year student, ready to be your trusty guide.

This blog is your go-to source for some nifty general guidelines and a sprinkle of our experiences. Consider it your crash course to getting a sneak peek into the interview process. Let's get this adventure started!

Once you receive that precious letter saying you have aced the AKU Admission Test, get ready to strut your stuff in not one, but two fabulous interviews! Picture this: You, the star of the show, seated in the hot seat, with one dazzling interviewer in each round. These interviews are like glam events, lasting anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Rarely does the spotlight shine beyond the one-hour mark.

Now, let's talk about the two acts of this star-studded show. Act one is your time to shine and prepare. It is like rehearsing your lines for a blockbuster movie. You will face some common questions and maybe even a few white lies. So, practice your script and make it flawless.

But here is where the plot thickens – Act Two. This is the wild card, the unpredictable twist in the tale. The interviewer might throw any topic your way, like a surprise plot twist. So you better be ready for anything, but don't worry, it is not a horror story!

Now, the ultimate advice, and this one is a showstopper: Just be yourself! Imagine you're the leading role in your own blockbuster, and authenticity is your superpower. So, break a leg, rock those interviews, and steal the show as the incredible you!

Crucial rehearsal:

Maintaining a sharp mental presence throughout your interview is absolutely crucial. We often go in with a plan to share a treasure trove of details about ourselves, but those pesky nerves can lead to forgetfulness. So, let us make sure you walk out without a hint of regret!

Now, let's talk about attire – your interview armor. For the gentlemen, a well-fitted suit and a snazzy tie are your best pals. Ladies, a shalwar kameez with a professional twist or a well fitted suit is a solid choice. But, here's the kicker: it is all about those little details. Polish those shoes, slip on a watch (just don't keep glancing at it like you are in a hurry), and make sure your outfit's color scheme is on point. Oh, and personal grooming? Absolutely crucial!

But wait, there is more to maximize your odds of acing this interview. It's vital to become well-acquainted with general interview guidance, including the nuances of suitable body language and those crafty non-verbal cues. Remember, it is not only the content of your words that matters; it is also the manner in which you convey them and the image you project. So, stand tall, exude self-assurance, and ensure that your first impression is a showstopper.

Specifics of the AKU admission interviews:

The AKU admission interviews comprise two back-to-back interviews conducted by separate individuals on the same day. The date and time of your interviews will be assigned by AKU. Arriving early is crucial, and being physically prepared is equally important as well.

These interviews typically last 35-40 minutes but can significantly vary in duration. Throughout the interviews everything about you is under constant scrutiny. Upon entering the interview room, greet the interviewer and, if the gender allows, initiate a handshake. Memorize their names, as the second interviewer may inquire about the first interview, and being aware of details like their name can make a favorable impression.

The conversation almost invariably begins with the classic question, "Tell me about yourself." This question is a comprehensive opener, and the interviewers expect detailed responses. You can start with your family background, including parents, grandparents, and their professions. You may then go on to talk about pyour educational journey, favorite subjects, and the various roles you’ve played in any notable extracurricular activities. Highlight hobbies, sports, and the various other ways that you typically utilize your free time. Remember that this question paves the way for you to shape the conversation according to your strengths and interests.

During the interview, you should try to confidently narrate your life's journey, providing insightful details about your upbringing, educational experiences, and the activities that have shaped you into the individual you currently are. Emphasize how your participation in various activities, such as science competitions or MUNs, has honed your teamworking skills, an essential quality for future medical collaboration.

Apart from the introductory question, the interview typically transitions to discussing your motivations for pursuing medicine, your specific interest in AKU, and what you believe makes you a suitable candidate. It is crucial to link your life experiences to medicine, highlighting how each event has prepared you for a medical career.

What sets AKU interviews apart is the interviewers' active engagement in the conversation. They do not merely nod or shake their heads; instead, they often provide comments or remarks, testing your ability to respond calmly. This is where your composure and confidence come into play. If they intentionally challenge your statements, stand your ground with confidence and offer logical justifications, demonstrating your ability to handle adversity.

Additionally, be cautious about honesty during the interviews. Lying can be detrimental if you get caught. Interviewers may cross-check information between the two interviews, so consistency is crucial.

As the interview concludes, interviewers typically ask if you have any questions for them. Prepare thoughtful queries regarding AKU, its programs, and their experiences to demonstrate your genuine interest.

In addition to your personal presentation, it is imperative to have a sound understanding of various aspects related to Pakistan and the medical field. Brush up on Pakistan's recent major events and the roles of key figures like the President, Prime Minister, Health Minister, and Education Minister. Familiarize yourself with healthcare policies and budgets, as this knowledge showcases your awareness of the healthcare landscape in Pakistan. Demonstrating your understanding of the nation's health structure and statistics, along with social and economic issues, can be a valuable point of conversation.

Medical ethics is a recurring theme in AKU interviews, so invest time in understanding these principles thoroughly. Additionally, prepare to discuss ethical dilemmas such as abortion, euthanasia, and animal testing. Being well-versed in these matters reflects your commitment to upholding ethical standards in the medical profession.

Your readiness to assume a leadership role is another topic that may arise. Express your preference for leadership, emphasizing your eagerness to guide and inspire others, especially in a country like Pakistan where role models are needed. Clarify that you are not referring to politics but rather doctors as leaders who educate, raise awareness, and promote public health.

Familiarize yourself with AKU, its programs, and its mission. Explore the university's website to gather detailed information about its educational offerings, global presence, and affiliations. Understand the role of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and its global impact. Knowledge about AKU's MBBS curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, advanced facilities, hostels, sports centers, and the new CIME building can bolster your interview. Highlight AKU's commitment to community health sciences ,its role in uplifting less privileged communities and how it aligns with your passion for making a meaningful impact on society.

Be ready to discuss AKU's associations with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), both in Pakistan and internationally. Illustrate how you align with AKU's vision of producing globally conscious citizens dedicated to social development.

Knowledge about current healthcare issues and trends, as well as your awareness of health policies and budget allocations, can set you apart. Mention Pakistan's health budget allocation and contrast it with other nations to demonstrate your grasp of the field.

Throughout the interview, be prepared for potential curveball questions and scenarios. For instance, you might be asked about your reaction to working in an organization with rules you disagree with. In such cases, suggest a diplomatic approach, such as discussing the issue with management for clarification, while acknowledging that rules aim to benefit the staff's overall well-being.

To further demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying updated, mention your habit of reading about medical advancements. Share instances of coming across intriguing information online and how it piqued your curiosity.

Remember that while this comprehensive guide equips you with valuable insights and scenarios for the AKU admission interviews, it is essential to adapt your responses to your unique experiences and beliefs. Practice with peers or mentors to refine your interview skills, and remain genuine, confident, and well-informed throughout the process. Your journey towards becoming a medical professional at AKU begins with thorough preparation, self-assurance, and a genuine passion for the field of medicine.

Author: Dahir Ashfaq & Aqsa Amjad

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