It's not that I believe nursing is less important being a doctor but I know that doctors have a greater decision making capacity which is something I want to have one practicing medicine so I can make it's not that I believe nursing is less important than medicine or being a doctor but I know that doctors have a greater decision making capacity which is something I would like.
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(To see updates to this post, scroll down towards the end. I'm adding the word "Update" with a date to indicate when I edited this post last so you can be sure you haven't missed any addition.)
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Greetings everyone!
I hope that everyone is enjoying the summers and that those of you who put in the right effort and determination were able to pass the test. It is time to give you guys something you can work with for the interview that is to come next.
As always, my first reference is going to be the guide I wrote, which actually contains all that I have to say and all the advice I have for you based on my own experience last year. Here is the link: https://goo.gl/Q4e8Wg
I'm sure you've come across this at some point, but now I want you to go through it specifically with reference to the section on the Stage II Information Form and then the one on my interview experience.
Speaking of the Stage II Information Form, I won't go into details regarding how to fill it in a blog post, however, specific questions are welcome below in the comments and my email (akuhelp@outlook.com) in case you face any issues or confusion, as I personally remember that it can be a tedious task and having passed the test and knowing that you do have a shot at the admission, you don't want to make any silly errors.
Alright so let's come to the interview. The point of this post is to not only highlight what I deem important but also relay what some of my own batchmates and seniors have to say to you. so I'll be compiling all of that in this one single post for your ease. Any updates will be added here too, includng tips from more people + I'll try my best to answer questions in the comments below, so do revisit this page once daily.
I hope this helps! Good luck! :D
Last Moment Advice I Have To Give
Outside of the guide I wrote, if I have to give you a set of pointers, they would be the following (not in any order of importance, just off the top of my head):
- You've passed the test, so keep your hopes and confidence up. If you weren't taking it too seriously before, now is the time to focus on that admission letter. You're part of the small pool of students that passed the test so that does mean you have the potential to get into AKU. Just being aware of this and truly appreciating this fact is going to be give you the confidence boost you need to ace the interview.
- I'm not so sure about mock interviews, but what I'd suggest is mentally rehearsing your interview. Look into the types of questions they ask and try to play the scene out in your head. This is what I did months before the AKU test all the way till the interview itself. It really helps to know how you would respond to potential questions they throw at you. This is especially helpful for the basic ones like, "Tell me about yourself." You need to be clear on that and know exactly how much and what about yourself are you willing to convey to them. Do note that this doesn't mean coming up with untruthful answers, but it's a practice to help you get your thought process working.
- Honesty and sincerity are key. The profession you are entering is one that requires you to be genuine towards it and to fellow human beings. Understand this great responsibility. This is medicine. A career of nobility. Yes, ground realities will differ. But we will cross that bridge when we get to it. Right now, it's absolutely necessary to approach the interview with sincerity. That authenticity is going to reflect in your body language and the words you say.
- More important than being honest, I personally feel based on my experience and upon what I've heard from others, is how you present yourself. You should be confident with what you are saying. Maintain eye contact. Sit with your back straight; don't slouch. Don't spend the interview with your arms folded, giving off the impression that you are defensive and don't want to communicate. Make it known that this interview really means something to you. What's going on in your head/heart doesn't matter if you're unable to get it across to the interviewer. Bring your best out with a smile that adorns your face as you speak. Speak politely and succintly; don't rush. Own yourself. If they ask, go ahead and let them know that this is your first interview and that you're a little nervous, but that you look forward to it and are managing yourself well, that you're enjoying this experience. If you feel that the interviwer has somehow misunderstood what you've said, go ahead and clarify that in a respectful manner. Take your time to think before speaking if you have to, to formulate your thoughts or words, so as to avoid saying anything you'd regret (this is why the first point is helpful). No point in saying the truth about not doing drugs or not cheating in any exams if you're hesitating and shaking with nervousness; even the truth is going to seem like a lie at that point, and somebody who is great at lying might just able to slither through. The point is to present yourself as a confident, well-mannered, balanced person, and trust me, you won't be able to do that unless you truly are that way and in that frame of mind before the interview. That does not mean that you're supposed to be perfect. A person who is self-confident knows their weaknesses and is able to talk about them in terms of areas that need improvement and areas that they're working on. I hope you get what I'm trying to convey.
- This is your interview, and beyond the basic set of questions they ask you, the conversation will depend majorly on your input and things you say. They can drag a conversation if they want regarding anything you've said, so be sure to know what you're talking about and don't talk about something if you won't be able to carry on a conversation about it.
- Be mentally present and don't let the situation overwhelm you. We plan on telling lots of things about ourselves but somehow things slip our mind when we're in that situation. So don't let that happen to you; ensure that you don't have any regrets at the end of the interview.
- Have a nice breakfast but don't overeat. Make sure you use the restroom before your leave your house, for obvious reasons. Anxiety is going to mess around with your gut anyway, so no need to aggravate that.
- Dress well. Guys can wear a suit and tie. (Girls, ask your seniors and see if you can find anything in this post or the other posts on this blog, which I'll share at the end.) Make sure your shoes are polished. Wear a watch too if you have one, but don't be that person who's frequently looking at the time; it gives off the wrong impression. Make sure the color scheme flows well from your shoes to your belt and to the rest of the suit. Put on some perfume and brush your teeth before you go. Get a nice haircut (unless you plan on keeping long hair, in which case wear that look with pride, but make sure they're nice and tidy) a couple of days before the interview so it sets in. Same goes for your facial hair. If you bite your nails, please, stop just for a week. I know this is a time when you're most likely to do it, but avoid it. Let your hands look as nice as possible.
- Google around for general advice when it comes to interviews and how your body language etc. should be.
- It's not that scary.
Interview Guide by Umer Arif Esbhani, Class of 2021
Hi, I’m Umer Arif Esbhani, AKU batch of 2021. You can call me Esbi. I’m gonna help you ace the interview.
Straightforward intro over, ahem.
Okay so first off, you will have not one but two interviews, taken by two separate people, back to back on the same day. The exact date and time will be assigned to you by AKU. Show up early and physically prepared, i.e have a good breakfast, take a shower, smell good, and all that stuff. Your clothing should be formal, eg: suits (or formal shirt + dress pants) for guys and shalwar kameez for girls. Nothing too fancy though. Some people may say clothing doesn’t matter but I think it if I were taking an interview I’d want the student to be in professional attire? :)
On to the interview itself. They will be approximately 35-40 minutes long, but can go up to an hour at times or be as short as 30 minutes too. Everything about you should be confident the moment you stop through the door, includes eye contact, posture, clear speech, etc. Greet the interviewer and shake hands if you are the same gender as them (if you’re thinking of gender jokes in your head right now, stop that thank you). Ask (and memorize) their name. Your second interviewer might ask you took your first interview and you don’t wanna be like “uhh idk”.
The conversation will always begin with “tell me about yourself”. Have a long answer prepared for this because they will literally want to know everything. Your past, where you’ve lived, where you have studied, details about your parents and siblings, including the addresses of your home, school, parents’ workplace, siblings’ school or workplace. You can’t lie about anything. If they ask whether you can drive and you say yes, they might ask you for directions to any of these places. A few very important aspects they almost always ask are:
2) Have you ever cheated? (You must say no, always, period)
3) What are your hobbies? (Be prepared to talk about this a lot – you want to lead the interview YOUR way and shape the conversation the way you want it – they will cross question you too to make sure everything you’re saying is legit)
After this intro they’ll move on to the uni talk. The three main things you need to cover are: 1) Why medicine? 2) Why AKU specifically? 3) Why should they take you?
While answering these questions, it is very important to link everything that has happened in your life to medicine. Like everything. You’re supposed to sell yourself a bit during this part and talk about how you’ve volunteered or interned, learned stuff, developed empathy, cared for the less fortunate, etc. If you’ve taken part in a science competition for example, tell them how the teamwork during those competitions will help you in your medical practice when you’ll have to team up with other doctors and nurses. This is what I mean by linking things to medicine.
The difference between an AKU interview and a normal interview is that they won’t just listen to you and nod if they’re happy or shake their head if they aren’t impressed. Instead they will comment or make a remark and then test your reaction to it. This is where your composure and confidence is tested: the ability to withhold your ground and stay true to yourself throughout the interview.
At times they will deliberately mislead you, or try to piss you off, or undermine you, or find a bad thing in something that you thought was good. It doesn’t mean they don’t appreciate it. They’re just testing to see what you’ll say/do. Eg: if you say you’re the headboy, they’ll test to see if you’re arrogant; or if you say you help poor communities, they’ll say “but those people illegally steal electricity” etc. You will be positively credited if you hold your position and justify it rather than giving in and saying “oh yes sorry” etc. The moment they see that you believe in your statements truly and weren’t just saying cool-sounding fluff, they’ll stop poking you about it and move on.
Please try not to lie in the interviews. If you get caught, you’re screwed :). Many times they will cross check between the two interviews, ask the same questions again, etc. Your answer must be the same.
Despite all this, once the conversation starts to flow, time will pass pretty fast. It sounds daunting but once you’re there and once you manage to establish control and a firm ground, you’ll lose all nervousness. They KNOW it’s a big thing for you and they KNOW you will be nervous at the start. So it is okay to feel that way. You just have to show them that you won’t let it get the better of you.
When concluding the interview, they will always ask you whether you have any questions for them. Do keep a few in mind.
Now, a few general questions they might ask or things you should generally know about:
1) Know about Pakistan and the problems faced by people. Major events that have happened recently or this year. Who the president, prime minister, health minister, education minister etc is. Know about health policies, health budget, education budget, etc. They won’t really ask you this stuff but having a general idea about it helps a lot. Imagine if you’re having a conversation about some poor community and problems they face. You can casually slip in the fact about Pakistan’s low budget allocation for healthcare while the interviewer nods and smiles impressed.
2) PLEASE READ UP ON MEDICAL ETHICS. They ask about this a lot. Google it and understand them properly. Also do ethical dilemmas like abortion, euthanasia, animal testing etc.
3) Would you rather be a leader or a follower? Your answer should be leader and you should talk about how you value leadership, especially in a country like Pakistan where people need someone to look up to. You should appear willing to take that responsibility (and confidently too). I don’t mean politics, I mean doctors as leaders. Who actually teach people and spread awareness and promote public health rather than just having their own private money making practice.
4) READ UP ON AKU. Go through the website and learn all the details there about its educational programs, in which parts of the world it’s established, etc. Know what AKDN is and what it is doing in the world right now. You should know about AKU’s MBBS curriculum and societies too, eg: HASS, FALAH, has good faculty, has good research opportunities, state of the art equipment and labs, hostel facilities, sports center facilities (they will love if you mention this). Also let them know that you’re aware of the new CIME building. It’s beautiful and they spent a lot on it. Make them happy.
That’s about it, fellas. Hope this helps, and best of luck!
Advice by Maaha Ayub, Class of 2022
Hey! I don't know if this has already been said but a lot of people tell students that the interviews are something scary but honestly they're not. Idk about non karachiites but for us the interviews were so chill and more like a one on one conversation. I went in my first interview pretty nervous because of which I stuttered a bit at the start but then unless one's extremely unlucky, the interviewed are mostly friendly and there's absolutely nothing to worry about in there. As long as one's confident, they can tackle any question thrown at them. Also one thing I learnt was that one should never present their achievements as something small. I know that kind of goes against the rules of modesty and all but a lot of people told me to make even my small achievements sound as if they're something huge, and honestly it's not as much about what one says as it is about how one says it so one needs to be smart with their choice of words when talking about themselves.
Also there are those typical why do you wanna be a doctor question so the students should really come up with answers to these from within themselves and not take an answer someone else like a mentor or whoever offers them because then the interviewers can really probe into the answer and ask them further questions regarding their answer so as long as the why do you wanna be a doctor answer is an honest one coming from within themselves, they'll be able to answer any questions regarding it
Advice by Muhammad Daiem, Class of 2022
1) Know about Pakistan and the problems faced by people. Major events that have happened recently or this year. Who the president, prime minister, health minister, education minister etc is. Know about health policies, health budget, education budget, etc. They won’t really ask you this stuff but having a general idea about it helps a lot. Imagine if you’re having a conversation about some poor community and problems they face. You can casually slip in the fact about Pakistan’s low budget allocation for healthcare while the interviewer nods and smiles impressed.
2) PLEASE READ UP ON MEDICAL ETHICS. They ask about this a lot. Google it and understand them properly. Also do ethical dilemmas like abortion, euthanasia, animal testing etc.
3) Would you rather be a leader or a follower? Your answer should be leader and you should talk about how you value leadership, especially in a country like Pakistan where people need someone to look up to. You should appear willing to take that responsibility (and confidently too). I don’t mean politics, I mean doctors as leaders. Who actually teach people and spread awareness and promote public health rather than just having their own private money making practice.
4) READ UP ON AKU. Go through the website and learn all the details there about its educational programs, in which parts of the world it’s established, etc. Know what AKDN is and what it is doing in the world right now. You should know about AKU’s MBBS curriculum and societies too, eg: HASS, FALAH, has good faculty, has good research opportunities, state of the art equipment and labs, hostel facilities, sports center facilities (they will love if you mention this). Also let them know that you’re aware of the new CIME building. It’s beautiful and they spent a lot on it. Make them happy.
That’s about it, fellas. Hope this helps, and best of luck!
Hey! I don't know if this has already been said but a lot of people tell students that the interviews are something scary but honestly they're not. Idk about non karachiites but for us the interviews were so chill and more like a one on one conversation. I went in my first interview pretty nervous because of which I stuttered a bit at the start but then unless one's extremely unlucky, the interviewed are mostly friendly and there's absolutely nothing to worry about in there. As long as one's confident, they can tackle any question thrown at them. Also one thing I learnt was that one should never present their achievements as something small. I know that kind of goes against the rules of modesty and all but a lot of people told me to make even my small achievements sound as if they're something huge, and honestly it's not as much about what one says as it is about how one says it so one needs to be smart with their choice of words when talking about themselves.
Also there are those typical why do you wanna be a doctor question so the students should really come up with answers to these from within themselves and not take an answer someone else like a mentor or whoever offers them because then the interviewers can really probe into the answer and ask them further questions regarding their answer so as long as the why do you wanna be a doctor answer is an honest one coming from within themselves, they'll be able to answer any questions regarding it
Advice by Muhammad Daiem, Class of 2022
One thing I remember was that i was told by a senior to ask the first interviewer his name and the second one usually asks the name of the first interviewer. So basically ask their names and remember them
They also tend to make mistakes on purpose to see if you call them out. Like my first one wrote KIBS instead of KIPS on his paper. And the second said that tuberculosis was a waterborne disease even tho it's air borne when we were discussing communicable diseases in Pakistan
Usually people say k you won't be asked any science stuff lekin i was randomly asked about the theory of evolution. Darwin waghera bus,
Was asked about communicable diseases in Pakistan
Advice by Baqir Jafry, Class of 2022
There are some key points that you need to remember for the interview:
Extracurriculars count a lot. Aku wants to grab well-rounded individuals. It'll be great if you have one extracurricular in which you absolutely stand out( for eg you have a national representation in that). However, having a bunch of small extracurriculars (eg being part of school debate team , participation in school sport activities, internships , volunteerships etc) is also good.
YOU lead your own interview. So think carefully before you speak.
Your experience is what truly makes your interview unique. So for common questions eg why aku, why medicine etc, try to use YOUR own experience to elucidate your answer.
The values, you adhere to, are very important. The interviewer might even ask questions relevant to those values. Foreg, have you ever practised independence, what would you do if your friend tries to cheat in exam etc. In such questions, always stick to your values and show that you won't put them at stake in ANY circumstance.
Don't ever try to speak about controversies. If the interviewer asks a controversial question(eg a religious question) start your answer by saying " in my opinion" and be as precise as possible. Don't go into an elaborative discussion regarding that.
MY INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE
1ST INTERVIEW:
For common questions like , why aku, I was already prepared. Prior to my interview, I had searched regarding some facilities like Pbls, HASS, research work etc that makes aku unique among all medical institutions in pakistan. So I elaborated on them. For "why doctor" question, I used my experience in NICH internship and AKUH volunteership to answer.
The interviewer asked how independent I am and whether I have lived away from home at any point in my life. I had an experience in NSTC Olympiad so I gave a brief description regarding that.
I was asked whether I applied to universities other than aku. Also, if I don't get into Aku , then what would I do. I stumbled a bit in the second question likin khair itna masla nahi hua.
Overall, the experience was ok. I compensated for this by doing well in my second interview. The questions were more or less, same. The difference was just that the second interviewer was a bit lenient.
SOME TIPS
Have a good body language.
Be respectful in all circumstances.
Don't give up in your interview just because your test score isn't that good
Be honest.
Try to be calm and confident. Even if the interviewer challenges your views, dont panic.
Take interview as a discussion where you are simply sharing your own life story.
Advice by Hassan Raja, Class of 2022
Why AKU?
This was a question, I was asked in my actual and my practice interviews. Both my Biology teachers had told me that I should say something like that if I don’t get accepted, I’ll apply again next year and even the year after, and right now I’m completely committed to AKU in the sense that I’ve applied to NOWHERE ELSE. Both of them were pretty insistent on the fact that you have to convince the interviewer that you REALLY want to go to AKU. I know someone who joined AKU in 1st year after dropping out of 3rd year, from another medical college, while that kind of dedication is admirable but for me it’s something I’d never do. I thought that the answer that my teachers told me was over the top and frankly quite ridiculous. Instead I told the interviewer the truth. I told him that while AKU was my first choice, and I would be disappointed if I was rejected I would most certainly not wait a whole year to apply again. In fact I probably wouldn’t apply again. I’d move on and probably pursue medicine from Army Medical College, Shifa or Rawalpindi Medical College. I also mentioned the answer that my teachers ‘expected’ of me and the interviewer laughed and said that he too found that answer absurd.
Have you thought about what you want to specialise in?
This question is open ended. Just tell the truth and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t thought about it because it is very premature to think about specialization even before gaining admission to a medical college.
Problems facing the healthcare sector in Pakistan
Ø Under funding (low healthcare budget and no priority on govt agenda)
Ø Lack of facilities especially in govt. hospitals
Ø Lack of qualified, trained staff due to brain drain
Ø Lack of awareness
Ø Lack of sanitation, clean water.
Ø Security situation hampering vaccination drives
Ø Too many MBBS doctors
Ø No healthcare structure (for eg. Primary, secondary, tertiary healthcare)
Ø Expensive, unaffordable treatments in private hospitals
Ø Regulations/Guidelines not properly enforced.
General Tips
Arrive early
Miscellaneous Advice From AKU Students/Seniors
The following Tips are random, please use only the tips that are relevant to you:
Show up early and physically prepared, i.e have a good breakfast, take a shower, smell good, and all that stuff.
formal shirt + dress pants + tie
For the "tell me about yourself” question, have a long answer prepared because they will literally want to know everything. Start from your family, then parents and grandparents, their professions, then past education, favorite subjects, extra curriculars where you had a leadership position, hobbies, sports, how you spend your free time.
Also mention how you use your free time to destress by watching movies, reading books, learning new skills like music editing and practicing photoshop.
If you say you read fiction, they'll ask the authors and what the book is about. They may ask you the addresses of your home, school, parents’ workplace. You can’t lie about anything. If they ask whether you can drive and you say yes, they might ask you for directions to any of these places. For everything there must be solid backing so they know you aren't lying.
Take your photoshop/design work with you. Emphasise on how you like to design, as well as edit pictures.
You should know who is the Minister of National Health Services, who is the Finance Minister, etc.
Know about Social problems include illiteracy, corruption, lack of women's rights, child labour, as well as Economic problems include inflation, unemployment, poverty etc.
Health structure of Pakistan?
What's the health budget of Pakistan?
What about AKU appeals to you? What if you don't get admitted?
1) What are 3 of your strengths and weaknesses? I used to be a pushover and would sacrifice a lot of my time and energy to please others, but i have learnt to cut down on that, because i realised i cannot always please everyone. I had a habit of being hard on myself for any fall backs or failures but i understand now that i must work my hardest and to the best of my ability, everything else will fall into place. I tend to overprepare for things, which results in my being slow to progress at first but i eventually catch up and due to my overpreparedness i feel i do better at things. In terms of strengths, I believe myself to be an effective leader because i have been in a leadership role on many occasions, and love to work in a team, motivating my peers, cooperating and coordinating with them, discussing different insights to tackle a particular task or project from different angles, and delegating tasks according to the strengths of each of the individuals in my team. I have a strong work ethic and love to work, im very passionate for it, especially because good quality progress gives me great satisfaction. I work well under stress, because ive learnt to perceive it in a positive light, because there are 2 types of stress: eustress and distress, and i can identify and replace distress through various activities.
2) Have you ever cheated? (You must say no, always, period)
3) What are your hobbies? (Be prepared to talk about this a lot – you want to lead the interview YOUR way and shape the conversation the way you want it – they will cross question you too to make sure everything you’re saying is legit)
After this intro they’ll move on to the uni talk. The three main things you need to cover are: 1) Why medicine? 2) Why AKU specifically? 3) Why should they take you?
While answering these questions, it is very important to link everything that has happened in your life to medicine. Like everything. You’re supposed to sell yourself a bit during this part and talk about how you’ve volunteered or interned, learned stuff, developed empathy, cared for the less fortunate, etc. If you’ve taken part in a science competition for example, tell them how the teamwork during those competitions will help you in your medical practice when you’ll have to team up with other doctors and nurses. This is what I mean by linking things to medicine.
According to your answers, they will comment or make a remark and then test your reaction to it. This is where your composure and confidence is tested: the ability to withhold your ground and stay true to yourself throughout the interview.
Would you rather be a leader or a follower? Your answer should be leader and you should talk about how you value leadership, especially in a country like Pakistan where people need someone to look up to. You should appear willing to take that responsibility (and confidently too). I don’t mean politics, I mean doctors as leaders. Who actually teach people and spread awareness and promote public health rather than just having their own private money making practice.
Do keep a few questions in mind to ask the interviewer.
READ UP ON AKU. https://www.aku.edu/about/at-a-glance/Pages/our-vision.aspx
Go through the website and learn all the details there about its educational programs, in which parts of the world it’s established, etc. Know what AKDN is and what it is doing in the world right now. You should know about AKU’s MBBS curriculum and societies too, eg: HASS, FALAH, has good faculty, has good research opportunities, state of the art equipment and labs, hostel facilities, sports center facilities. Also mention the new CIME building.
Know statistics about the pakistani health sector and health in general.
Show you are genuinely interested in helping people by bringing up community services and talk about AKU's Community Health sciences program (Do some research on it).
Show that you are a broad thinking open minded tolerant individual.
AKU is associated with NGOs in Pakistan, but does it have networks formed with international NGOs like the MSF or WHO?
What sports opportunities are offered here?
I heard about AKU developing a Social and Human sciences division here, is that true? When is it expected to be completed?
Can you tell me about your education and career path? What was your journey like until you made it as the medical professional you are today?
Can you tell me about the sports facilities/HASS/Falah
Wear a watch, carry a pen. But Never Ever look at the time.
Know what other program's they're offering.
> 9 What are social problems of Pakistan
> 10 What are health issues in Pakistan
> 11 Languages you speak at home and with friends
> 12 Which newspaper do you read? English or Urdu
> 13 What do you know about aku?
> 33 What programmes does AKU offer besides MBBS
AKU prospectus info
> 1. Aku seal- the circle represents the internationality of aku. Centre is star or sun—universal symbol for enlightenment and symbolic of divine light (nur). Sun has 49 rays to commemorate 49th imam Sir aga khan. Quranic ayat 3:103.
> 2. Many believe world going through Knowledge Society phase—where the source of influence would be through info, intelligence, insight rather than power or natural resources. Priority setting will be most imp-today ppl lost in gainig too much info—lost wisdom and knowledge that lies within—said by sir aga khan
> (this is very rep of what aku wants not only above 59% in test or alevels but an individual well rounded in academic and extra curriculars alike. Wants to produce not cogs in the machine.)
> 3. Key to progress duznt lie in any single source of teaching but in the openness to new expressions and fresh insights. (sir aga khan)
> 4. Development of truly global citizens that are able to cope and excel with diversity.
> 5. Aku campuses in Nairobi , khi, darusalam, arusha.
> 6. Stimulating experience and personal growth.—firoz rasul (prez)
> 7. First private uni pak—27 yrs old
> 8. Faculty of arts and sciences—for liberal arts edu
> 9. Committed to enhance position of women strengthened nursing+ teaching institutions
> 10. Strong position in AKDN by committing to social development via developing higher edu + research relevant to probs in pak+ muslims+ developing nations
> 11. Aku comprises of faculty of health sciences as med college n nursing school in akuh, AKU-IED edu develop institute in khi and Islamic civilizations institute in London.
> 12. 2002 est AKU-examination board
> 13. Uni launched training n teaching sites in Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya , Syria , Egypt, uk----also aims to develop AKU HEALTH N FAS IN Uganda kanya and Tanzania
> 14. Chancellor= aga kahn---chairman trustees= saidullah khan dehelvi
> 15. Harvard,mcgill,mcmaster contributed to faculty and curriculum,,,waterloo UBC partnerships enable higher training and research opportunities not available in Pakistan.
> 16. Only 3rd teaching hospital in world to get JCIA accreditation, and now also ISO certified
> 17. Patients behbud society donates zakat to akuh
> 18. Student activities include sports, art, culture and publications
> 19. Potential for leadership
> 20. MBBS curriculum renewed oct 2002—has evidence based medi edu, problem based learning and opp to work in clinical teams both in karaachi and on a national/ community in urban/ rural areas
> 21. AKU-MC conforms to the req of pak med and dental council—registering body in Pakistan
I had read anything about medical advancements, so I would suggest reading a few medical magazines online, it's always good to tell them that oh I found this new thing online and it was so very interesting.
why you don't want to go abroad? I said well I had the opportunity but I realised that for me the best decision would be to study medicine here
Go on the aku site, read their mission statement. Read whatever the hell you can and pick what all looks impressive. Aku is one of the best medical schools worldwide, it is in the city you live in, it has adopted the pbl and module system which is brilliant, and you feel that the environment aku supports is one you could very easily fit into and an environment which promotes learning. Let me tell you about the pbl and module system. Basically, in the old days medicine was taught subject wise, like anatomy then histology then pathology and so on. The module system is basically an integrated teaching approach, you have modules like blood, inflammation, gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system. So what happens is that you learn all the anatomy physio histo patho etc about blood, then about inflammation then about git then about cvs and so on. So after every module you have a rounded full understanding about the system you have studied. Which makes it very easy to learn. Pbl stands for problem based learning. At aku the class of 100 is divided into 10 or so groups with 10 or so people. Twice a week you have pbl sessions. In these sessions we get cases related to the module you are studying, from the cases you make learning objectives because in the first two years of med school your objective is to learn what is going on and what goes wrong to make a certain symptom or disease happen. The case represents a patient who came to the doctor and so so and so has happened to him or her. You then make a learning objective (LO) about abnormal and normal functions of whatever is the related case. We have pbls twice a week, on mondays and thursdays. It works like this, monday you get a case, thursday you discuss the case, thursday you get a new case, monday you discuss that case and get a new case and so on. So what's happening is that you're constantly studying, and that is only going to help you with your exam later because if you studied well in your pbl then come exam time when you're studying again it's going to be like revision. You don't have to mention all of this I'm just telling you what I like about it and what I think you should understand about it, days of pbl change every year so that's not important for you obvs. Also, say that you have friends at aku and they praise the system of learning a lot and well you'd just love to be in such a place.
read up on the health system of Pakistan, primary secondary tertiary and quarternary care (pak doesn't really have quarternary care much) just read up on it just in case.
-If you are working in an organization and you don’t agree with their rules, what would you do? (V tricky question – I said that I would possibly speak with the management to get clarity on the issue reason being that rules are made keeping the general well-being of the staff in mind so they cannot possibly be wrong)
She also asked me if there was something that I disliked about AKU? And she did NOT want to hear that it’s amazing and perfect so be prepared for such questions.
I simply told her that its very expensive and not easily affordable by even middle class at times but that was understandable since it’s a private hospital. I made it sound positive by saying that I liked the fact that they set up a special financial aid bank for less privileged people in recent years and are trying to improve upon the issue.
Talk about the research opportunities at aku, organisations such as Falah and its branches and about the university's international reputation.
Link leadership to doctors being leaders, and emphasise the importance of medical profession being a team based field.
connections to foreign NGOs like MSF and WHO
Older Posts On This Blog Related To The AKU Interview
http://theakuchallenge.blogspot.com/2013/11/aku-interview-guidelines.html
Advice by Baqir Jafry, Class of 2022
There are some key points that you need to remember for the interview:
Extracurriculars count a lot. Aku wants to grab well-rounded individuals. It'll be great if you have one extracurricular in which you absolutely stand out( for eg you have a national representation in that). However, having a bunch of small extracurriculars (eg being part of school debate team , participation in school sport activities, internships , volunteerships etc) is also good.
YOU lead your own interview. So think carefully before you speak.
Your experience is what truly makes your interview unique. So for common questions eg why aku, why medicine etc, try to use YOUR own experience to elucidate your answer.
The values, you adhere to, are very important. The interviewer might even ask questions relevant to those values. Foreg, have you ever practised independence, what would you do if your friend tries to cheat in exam etc. In such questions, always stick to your values and show that you won't put them at stake in ANY circumstance.
Don't ever try to speak about controversies. If the interviewer asks a controversial question(eg a religious question) start your answer by saying " in my opinion" and be as precise as possible. Don't go into an elaborative discussion regarding that.
MY INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE
1ST INTERVIEW:
For common questions like , why aku, I was already prepared. Prior to my interview, I had searched regarding some facilities like Pbls, HASS, research work etc that makes aku unique among all medical institutions in pakistan. So I elaborated on them. For "why doctor" question, I used my experience in NICH internship and AKUH volunteership to answer.
The interviewer asked how independent I am and whether I have lived away from home at any point in my life. I had an experience in NSTC Olympiad so I gave a brief description regarding that.
I was asked whether I applied to universities other than aku. Also, if I don't get into Aku , then what would I do. I stumbled a bit in the second question likin khair itna masla nahi hua.
Overall, the experience was ok. I compensated for this by doing well in my second interview. The questions were more or less, same. The difference was just that the second interviewer was a bit lenient.
SOME TIPS
Have a good body language.
Be respectful in all circumstances.
Don't give up in your interview just because your test score isn't that good
Be honest.
Try to be calm and confident. Even if the interviewer challenges your views, dont panic.
Take interview as a discussion where you are simply sharing your own life story.
Advice by Hassan Raja, Class of 2022
After you have passed the entry test, you’ll
receive a pack from AKU, which will contain documents which will need to be
sent to AKU, along with a letter detailing your entry test score and a formal
invitation to the interview. The
documents that need to be sent are related to your extra-curriculars,
internships, hobbies and academic achievements. They are able to give the
admissions committee an insight to the kind of person you are.
When I received the pack, I was so intimidated by all the requirements that it crossed my mind that I should never have applied. While I was pleased with my entry test score, the thought of filling out the other forms was daunting to say the least, especially for someone who’s not the most involved person! Nevertheless I filled out the forms and sent them, along with the required attested documents and verification details. Keep in mind that the admissions committee will verify everything that you’ve written down. So you can’t just blatantly lie about everything, because that will surely get you disqualified.
Now onto the interview. I’m sure you’ve probably read countless people giving their take on the interview, so I’ll try my best to keep it succinct.
You’ll be subject to two interviews, held on the same day by 2 different interviewers. All the interviews are one to one and all the interviewers are in some way related to AKU. They may be faculty at AKU, working in AKUH, or even an AKU graduate. Something to keep in mind is that the interview itself is NOT as intimidating as you expect. It’s just a general conversation, and you can often steer it in the direction you want. But remember DO NOT LIE. That’s extremely important. If you do fabricate something, somehow, someway, the interviewer will catch onto it and grill you further, and THAT my friend is not a pleasant experience.
Before the actual interview, I had a few practice interviews. One was held by the Biology teachers in my school, another was conducted by my parents (since they both teach in Shifa, and conduct interviews at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, they had a fairly good idea what would be asked). I also arranged an interview with an AKU graduate and talked over the interview with another doctor who had taken part as an interviewer the previous year. This helped me prepare myself and understand what’s expected. The thing with me is that while I have everything in my mind and often come up with great answers to theoretical questions, when I come to saying them out loud, I get tongue-tied and never end up saying what I want. So these ‘mock’ interviews helped me practice my communication skills and improve my confidence. While not a requirement (many people don’t even need to practice), for anyone who’s nervous it’s helpful to practice the answers to a few standard questions or arrange a mock interview with someone.
My interview was scheduled at 9:00 am on a Saturday in August, so I reached the venue (Pearl Continental Rawalpindi) at 8:30. As always, it’s good to be early. The interviews are held in a formal setting, so formal attire is expected. Though, while speaking to an interviewer, he said none of the interviewers really mind what you wear and some people just turn up wearing jeans or shorts! But again it’s best to just go with the trend and not be an exception.
Now this is the place I’ll be honest... let’s just say my interviews weren’t the best😶. I mean they were okay, but they could have gone better in a lot of places. The thing that I was worried about the most was the fact that, unlike the norm my interviews were very short. The first one was 15 minutes and the second one barely lasted 10 minutes. Considering most people had interview times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour, I bet you can tell what I was thinking.
My first interview was conducted by a consultant nephrologist at AKUH. After some small talk and basic details (name, family, grades, entry test score etc.), he asked me about my extra-curriculars. I mentioned Peer Teaching, but gauging his facial expression, I could tell he wasn’t really impressed, I then mentioned my internships, but he cut me half-way and said that they didn’t really count as extra-curriculars. I moved on to saying I cycle, play tennis sometimes and also do a bit of origami, however once again he (correctly) pointed out that these things were leaning towards hobbies rather than extra-curriculars (which I agreed with). I think at that point I kind of gave up and said that I didn’t have that many then. The interviewer smiled and moved on.
Somewhere down the line I had mentioned that I’m quite sheltered, in the sense that I’m very grateful to have everything provided for by my parents, he caught onto that and this is how it went.
Interviewer: So have you ever lived in a hostel?
Me: No
Interviewer: Have you ever been to Karachi?
Me: No (I could sense where this was going)
Interviewer (stone faced): Then how do you expect you’ll be able to survive in a hostel, alone, 1000 miles away from your family, in a foreign city?
Me: Yes, I anticipated that question. Umm, well I’ve thought about it and honestly right now I recognise that it is a difficulty, but that’s something I’m willing to overcome. When I was in Year 8, I moved 5000 miles, from my perceived notion of home (referring to my move from the UK to Pakistan). Despite the massive cultural shift, I’ve adapted well and adjusted to the challenges and very different lifestyle here. I even learnt a new language from scratch (Urdu is a second language for me) and within 2 ½ years managed to get an A* in the subject at O Levels. Being adaptable is something I pride myself over. When I was 12, the challenge was moving to Pakistan, 6 years down the line, the challenge is different, but once more I’m willing to adapt again.
Interviewer: Yes, that’s all very well and good, but at times hostel life is very difficult. What will you do if you’re sick, alone in your room? You’re parents certainly won’t be there to dote over you and make you soup!
Me:اب ایسی بھی بات نہیں ہے۔ (It isn’t really like that). Both my parents are working parents and even when I am sick, I’m usually home alone, so I can mange on my own. Yes, I realize that hostel life is a big step from living at home with family. But if not now, then when? I’d much rather address my weaknesses now, head on, than shying away from them and later being troubled by them in my twenties unable to take care of myself. I know if I’m accepted, the first few months will be rough, but Insha’Allah after five years I’ll emerge the person I want to be.
Interviewer: I understand, but do you really know what you’re signing yourself up for?
Me: Sir, while at this moment in time I cannot give you any guarantee. What I can say is that I’ll try my utmost best to adjust to hostel life. That’s as much as I can do right now.
Thankfully, after this he moved on. He then probed me about my knowledge of AKU, the programmes and degrees it offers, it’s campuses worldwide etc. For this it’s important to read the Programme Information booklet and make a mental note of important facts (date of inception etc.). Also skimming through the website also helps to get some general information.
After this the interviewer asked me about my connection to my twin sister and various scenarios if one of us or both of us were accepted. I can’t really remember the rest but I do remember it came to a rather abrupt end.
My second interview was very rushed. The interviewer, an elderly professor at AKU, seemed like he had a checklist and he was simply running through it. All the questions were rapid fire, he wouldn’t let me finish my answers and he very rarely made eye contact, rather he kept scribbling or ticking on his sheet of paper. I hardly remember anything here apart from this and that he asked very basic, standard questions that my first interviewer had already asked. However two or three other people who were interviewed by the same person had the same experience, so I guess that was just his style. An important thing to remember is that the second interviewer will most likely ask who your first interviewer was, hence it’s important you ask your first interviewer(if they have not already told you) their name and what they do.
At the end of each interview, the interviewers asked me whether I had any question. I asked them how working/teaching/studying at Aga Khan has impacted their careers and what difference has Aga Khan made to them professionally. I wanted to ask this, because I wanted to judge how studying at Aga Khan would impact me and what sort of doctor I would become. After they answered, I shook their hands and left.
Below I’ve highlighted some general questions, which no matter your circumstances, the interviewers are bound to ask.
Standard Questions
When I received the pack, I was so intimidated by all the requirements that it crossed my mind that I should never have applied. While I was pleased with my entry test score, the thought of filling out the other forms was daunting to say the least, especially for someone who’s not the most involved person! Nevertheless I filled out the forms and sent them, along with the required attested documents and verification details. Keep in mind that the admissions committee will verify everything that you’ve written down. So you can’t just blatantly lie about everything, because that will surely get you disqualified.
Now onto the interview. I’m sure you’ve probably read countless people giving their take on the interview, so I’ll try my best to keep it succinct.
You’ll be subject to two interviews, held on the same day by 2 different interviewers. All the interviews are one to one and all the interviewers are in some way related to AKU. They may be faculty at AKU, working in AKUH, or even an AKU graduate. Something to keep in mind is that the interview itself is NOT as intimidating as you expect. It’s just a general conversation, and you can often steer it in the direction you want. But remember DO NOT LIE. That’s extremely important. If you do fabricate something, somehow, someway, the interviewer will catch onto it and grill you further, and THAT my friend is not a pleasant experience.
Before the actual interview, I had a few practice interviews. One was held by the Biology teachers in my school, another was conducted by my parents (since they both teach in Shifa, and conduct interviews at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, they had a fairly good idea what would be asked). I also arranged an interview with an AKU graduate and talked over the interview with another doctor who had taken part as an interviewer the previous year. This helped me prepare myself and understand what’s expected. The thing with me is that while I have everything in my mind and often come up with great answers to theoretical questions, when I come to saying them out loud, I get tongue-tied and never end up saying what I want. So these ‘mock’ interviews helped me practice my communication skills and improve my confidence. While not a requirement (many people don’t even need to practice), for anyone who’s nervous it’s helpful to practice the answers to a few standard questions or arrange a mock interview with someone.
My interview was scheduled at 9:00 am on a Saturday in August, so I reached the venue (Pearl Continental Rawalpindi) at 8:30. As always, it’s good to be early. The interviews are held in a formal setting, so formal attire is expected. Though, while speaking to an interviewer, he said none of the interviewers really mind what you wear and some people just turn up wearing jeans or shorts! But again it’s best to just go with the trend and not be an exception.
Now this is the place I’ll be honest... let’s just say my interviews weren’t the best😶. I mean they were okay, but they could have gone better in a lot of places. The thing that I was worried about the most was the fact that, unlike the norm my interviews were very short. The first one was 15 minutes and the second one barely lasted 10 minutes. Considering most people had interview times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour, I bet you can tell what I was thinking.
My first interview was conducted by a consultant nephrologist at AKUH. After some small talk and basic details (name, family, grades, entry test score etc.), he asked me about my extra-curriculars. I mentioned Peer Teaching, but gauging his facial expression, I could tell he wasn’t really impressed, I then mentioned my internships, but he cut me half-way and said that they didn’t really count as extra-curriculars. I moved on to saying I cycle, play tennis sometimes and also do a bit of origami, however once again he (correctly) pointed out that these things were leaning towards hobbies rather than extra-curriculars (which I agreed with). I think at that point I kind of gave up and said that I didn’t have that many then. The interviewer smiled and moved on.
Somewhere down the line I had mentioned that I’m quite sheltered, in the sense that I’m very grateful to have everything provided for by my parents, he caught onto that and this is how it went.
Interviewer: So have you ever lived in a hostel?
Me: No
Interviewer: Have you ever been to Karachi?
Me: No (I could sense where this was going)
Interviewer (stone faced): Then how do you expect you’ll be able to survive in a hostel, alone, 1000 miles away from your family, in a foreign city?
Me: Yes, I anticipated that question. Umm, well I’ve thought about it and honestly right now I recognise that it is a difficulty, but that’s something I’m willing to overcome. When I was in Year 8, I moved 5000 miles, from my perceived notion of home (referring to my move from the UK to Pakistan). Despite the massive cultural shift, I’ve adapted well and adjusted to the challenges and very different lifestyle here. I even learnt a new language from scratch (Urdu is a second language for me) and within 2 ½ years managed to get an A* in the subject at O Levels. Being adaptable is something I pride myself over. When I was 12, the challenge was moving to Pakistan, 6 years down the line, the challenge is different, but once more I’m willing to adapt again.
Interviewer: Yes, that’s all very well and good, but at times hostel life is very difficult. What will you do if you’re sick, alone in your room? You’re parents certainly won’t be there to dote over you and make you soup!
Me:اب ایسی بھی بات نہیں ہے۔ (It isn’t really like that). Both my parents are working parents and even when I am sick, I’m usually home alone, so I can mange on my own. Yes, I realize that hostel life is a big step from living at home with family. But if not now, then when? I’d much rather address my weaknesses now, head on, than shying away from them and later being troubled by them in my twenties unable to take care of myself. I know if I’m accepted, the first few months will be rough, but Insha’Allah after five years I’ll emerge the person I want to be.
Interviewer: I understand, but do you really know what you’re signing yourself up for?
Me: Sir, while at this moment in time I cannot give you any guarantee. What I can say is that I’ll try my utmost best to adjust to hostel life. That’s as much as I can do right now.
Thankfully, after this he moved on. He then probed me about my knowledge of AKU, the programmes and degrees it offers, it’s campuses worldwide etc. For this it’s important to read the Programme Information booklet and make a mental note of important facts (date of inception etc.). Also skimming through the website also helps to get some general information.
After this the interviewer asked me about my connection to my twin sister and various scenarios if one of us or both of us were accepted. I can’t really remember the rest but I do remember it came to a rather abrupt end.
My second interview was very rushed. The interviewer, an elderly professor at AKU, seemed like he had a checklist and he was simply running through it. All the questions were rapid fire, he wouldn’t let me finish my answers and he very rarely made eye contact, rather he kept scribbling or ticking on his sheet of paper. I hardly remember anything here apart from this and that he asked very basic, standard questions that my first interviewer had already asked. However two or three other people who were interviewed by the same person had the same experience, so I guess that was just his style. An important thing to remember is that the second interviewer will most likely ask who your first interviewer was, hence it’s important you ask your first interviewer(if they have not already told you) their name and what they do.
At the end of each interview, the interviewers asked me whether I had any question. I asked them how working/teaching/studying at Aga Khan has impacted their careers and what difference has Aga Khan made to them professionally. I wanted to ask this, because I wanted to judge how studying at Aga Khan would impact me and what sort of doctor I would become. After they answered, I shook their hands and left.
Below I’ve highlighted some general questions, which no matter your circumstances, the interviewers are bound to ask.
Standard Questions
Why AKU?
Its best not to mention some clichéd
answer, such as AKU is the best medical college in Pakistan. Yes, everyone
knows that, but is that why YOU really want to go to AKU, status aside? I talked
about the potential opportunities the university may provide me (unparalleled
research facilities, a springboard for my postgraduate career, the fact that
until recently it was the only JCIA approved hospital and medical college in
Pakistan etc.), the chance for me to be a better more well-rounded, independent
person by living alone. I also mentioned the teaching methodologies in AKU
(PBLs etc.) that will suit my method of learning rather than rote memorisation.
Do you plan to do USMLE/PLAB? If so why should AKU invest in you if you’ll leave the country?
Although I wasn’t asked this question, I know a few people who were. If I was asked this question, my response would be along the lines that while I do plan to do USMLE/PLAB, because I want to do my post-graduate training abroad, by no means does that mean I’m a wasted investment. AKU has educated many great doctors, who are now practising abroad. In fact recently the 20th reunion party of AKUites was held in Orlando, Florida. I saw a video on Dr Faiz Bohra (an AKU alumnus) who is a leading surgeon in New York, specializing in the use of robotics in surgery. Today he is one of the leaders in his field, because of the opportunities that had been provided to him, while training abroad. Would you say that AKU wasted its money on him? No, most certainly not. Where I end up practising, should be of no concern, because I’m dedicated to the profession. Also I’d mention (even though it’d sound clichéd) that I do have the intention of returning once I’ve gained my training. Whether that’s permanently or for a few months a year is something I’ll decide later.
Why do you want to become a doctor?
I’ll highlight this at the end.
Have you ever cheated?
I was quite emphatic about this. In fact a bit over the top. But this stems from the fact that I really don’t like the ‘cheating’ culture that is prevalent in educational institutions here in Pakistan. Call me a prick, if you want, but I don’t cheat off anyone nor do I directly help someone during the paper. If worst comes to worst the person behind me might sneak a glance of my paper without me knowing. I told the interviewer this and he said that by doing this I was indirectly promoting the very act. At that point I said that I can’t change people perceptions and a whole culture single-handedly, the important thing is that I myself don’t cheat and I can’t help if other people do . I will not be disturbed by a random person in the middle of the paper, by trying to uncomfortably and unsuccessfully hide my paper. If they’re cheating, it’s their loss not mine.
What if you don’t get into AKU?
Do you plan to do USMLE/PLAB? If so why should AKU invest in you if you’ll leave the country?
Although I wasn’t asked this question, I know a few people who were. If I was asked this question, my response would be along the lines that while I do plan to do USMLE/PLAB, because I want to do my post-graduate training abroad, by no means does that mean I’m a wasted investment. AKU has educated many great doctors, who are now practising abroad. In fact recently the 20th reunion party of AKUites was held in Orlando, Florida. I saw a video on Dr Faiz Bohra (an AKU alumnus) who is a leading surgeon in New York, specializing in the use of robotics in surgery. Today he is one of the leaders in his field, because of the opportunities that had been provided to him, while training abroad. Would you say that AKU wasted its money on him? No, most certainly not. Where I end up practising, should be of no concern, because I’m dedicated to the profession. Also I’d mention (even though it’d sound clichéd) that I do have the intention of returning once I’ve gained my training. Whether that’s permanently or for a few months a year is something I’ll decide later.
Why do you want to become a doctor?
I’ll highlight this at the end.
Have you ever cheated?
I was quite emphatic about this. In fact a bit over the top. But this stems from the fact that I really don’t like the ‘cheating’ culture that is prevalent in educational institutions here in Pakistan. Call me a prick, if you want, but I don’t cheat off anyone nor do I directly help someone during the paper. If worst comes to worst the person behind me might sneak a glance of my paper without me knowing. I told the interviewer this and he said that by doing this I was indirectly promoting the very act. At that point I said that I can’t change people perceptions and a whole culture single-handedly, the important thing is that I myself don’t cheat and I can’t help if other people do . I will not be disturbed by a random person in the middle of the paper, by trying to uncomfortably and unsuccessfully hide my paper. If they’re cheating, it’s their loss not mine.
What if you don’t get into AKU?
This was a question, I was asked in my actual and my practice interviews. Both my Biology teachers had told me that I should say something like that if I don’t get accepted, I’ll apply again next year and even the year after, and right now I’m completely committed to AKU in the sense that I’ve applied to NOWHERE ELSE. Both of them were pretty insistent on the fact that you have to convince the interviewer that you REALLY want to go to AKU. I know someone who joined AKU in 1st year after dropping out of 3rd year, from another medical college, while that kind of dedication is admirable but for me it’s something I’d never do. I thought that the answer that my teachers told me was over the top and frankly quite ridiculous. Instead I told the interviewer the truth. I told him that while AKU was my first choice, and I would be disappointed if I was rejected I would most certainly not wait a whole year to apply again. In fact I probably wouldn’t apply again. I’d move on and probably pursue medicine from Army Medical College, Shifa or Rawalpindi Medical College. I also mentioned the answer that my teachers ‘expected’ of me and the interviewer laughed and said that he too found that answer absurd.
Have you thought about what you want to specialise in?
This question is open ended. Just tell the truth and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t thought about it because it is very premature to think about specialization even before gaining admission to a medical college.
Problems facing the healthcare sector in Pakistan
Ø Under funding (low healthcare budget and no priority on govt agenda)
Ø Lack of facilities especially in govt. hospitals
Ø Lack of qualified, trained staff due to brain drain
Ø Lack of awareness
Ø Lack of sanitation, clean water.
Ø Security situation hampering vaccination drives
Ø Too many MBBS doctors
Ø No healthcare structure (for eg. Primary, secondary, tertiary healthcare)
Ø Expensive, unaffordable treatments in private hospitals
Ø Regulations/Guidelines not properly enforced.
General Tips
Arrive early
Dress smart
Practice a bit, if nervous
Don’t worry about how long your interviews are.
Treat the interview as a general conversation
Don’t stress, and relax. Even if you are nervous, maintain a calm, confident, composed attitude (easier said than done!)
Practice a bit, if nervous
Don’t worry about how long your interviews are.
Treat the interview as a general conversation
Don’t stress, and relax. Even if you are nervous, maintain a calm, confident, composed attitude (easier said than done!)
And above all, as mentioned
before, DON’T LIE.
-----------------------------------------------
Why Medicine?
I think for any doctor/doctor-to-be the answer
to this question does not rely on a single factor, rather it depends on a
series of factors, all of which culminate in choosing this profession.
Despite both my parents being doctors I was
neither pressured by them nor did I feel I was ever forced to choose this
field. I took Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Maths during my A Levels, and I
absolutely loved Maths. With Maths nothing was too difficult, everything just
seemed natural. But with Biology I always struggled. I had to put the extra
effort in and I found those damn CIE past papers hell (the mark schemes were
always out to kill you😤). However
despite the difficulties I faced I was always interested in Biology. I don’t
know why but something about the human body has always fascinated me. I
remember when we did the homeostasis chapter, I read somewhere that there are 1
MILLION nephrons in each kidney. I mean let that sink in... 1 million nephrons
(a number so large that our mind can barely comprehend its magnitude) crammed
into a tiny space, all performing the same function, seemingly effortlessly,
continuously 24/7. We, as humans, are still not able to replicate this, even
the most advanced dialysis machines are mammoth sized compared to a kidney and
are, at best, a temporary measure, they are most definitely NOT a replacement
for the kidney. And this is just one instance. Throughout my course I was
constantly amazed the human's body intricacies, its complexities and its hidden
mysteries. And there are so many things left to uncover, and so many things
that we yet just don't know enough about, take cancer as an example. Everything
about this field piques my childlike curiosity, in a way that engineering,
accounting, finance or any other profession just simply don't.
I've also done a fair bit of peer teaching,
and I can't really describe the feeling I used to get when I successfully
conveyed a concept to someone. It was this warm, fuzzy, satisfying feeling. And
that left me with a drive to help others. That drive and that kick is what I
hope I can get with a career in medicine. I mean what can be better than a
career whose roots are entwined with the very concept of service to humanity?
Going off on a religious tangent, we're all sinners to some extent, so as
selfish as this sounds, if I can gain some sort of redemption by dedicating my
life in a service to others, then it'll be worth it.
I moved to Pakistan, from the UK, around 6
years ago. Honestly the first few years, I hated it here. Everything was so
different and foreign to me. But over the years I've grown to quietly admire
this great nation. This country has enabled me to reconnect with my culture,
language (though admittedly my Urdu is shamefully terrible😁), people but most of all it has given me an identity. I wouldn't be
the person I am now today, if I had stayed back yesterday. And yes, while I
have had massive downs and challenges to face, they've made me someone I'm
proud to be. In my small way I'd like to give back, to make a difference to the
place that gave me so much.
Unlike other fields, medicine is not stagnant,
rather quite the opposite. It is dynamic and constantly evolving. Techniques
that were prevalent a mere 20 years ago are redundant today, and diseases that
were incurable are now simple to treat. Research, plays a huge role in the
advancement of medicine. And I want to play a part in that. I’ve always enjoyed
working in a lab, so being a scientist is something I’ve considered, however,
for me, it has one big drawback...and that is a lack of human interaction. The
human interaction factor is something that makes medicine unique in the
scientific field, and directly links doctors to their patients. But, nowadays,
doctors who are at the forefront of the specialties not only practice but also
carry out research on international levels. In doing so they are able to
directly see the effect of their efforts. Hence for me, I feel that medicine is
the best of both worlds.
Medicine is hard, and by hard I mean extremely
difficult. Worldwide, medicine is consistently one of the most competitive
fields out there. Doctors are expected to have unbelievable amounts of
knowledge on their fingertips, are expected to make life-changing decisions
often in a short time span and are expected to thrive in stressful,
pressurising environments. As standards and the scrutiny on doctors rises it is
only going to become more difficult. I have seen firsthand how doctors are
expected to be know-it-all robots that simply cannot make an error. While, in
my opinion, this kind of attitude is blatantly wrong, it is a reality of the
world we live in. Knowing these challenges and the hard grafting I have ahead
of me, I'm becoming a doctor, not for the money, not because I have been forced
to, not for the respect in society, but for the lives and stories I can impact
and make a difference to.
Miscellaneous Advice From AKU Students/Seniors
The following Tips are random, please use only the tips that are relevant to you:
Show up early and physically prepared, i.e have a good breakfast, take a shower, smell good, and all that stuff.
formal shirt + dress pants + tie
For the "tell me about yourself” question, have a long answer prepared because they will literally want to know everything. Start from your family, then parents and grandparents, their professions, then past education, favorite subjects, extra curriculars where you had a leadership position, hobbies, sports, how you spend your free time.
Also mention how you use your free time to destress by watching movies, reading books, learning new skills like music editing and practicing photoshop.
If you say you read fiction, they'll ask the authors and what the book is about. They may ask you the addresses of your home, school, parents’ workplace. You can’t lie about anything. If they ask whether you can drive and you say yes, they might ask you for directions to any of these places. For everything there must be solid backing so they know you aren't lying.
Take your photoshop/design work with you. Emphasise on how you like to design, as well as edit pictures.
You should know who is the Minister of National Health Services, who is the Finance Minister, etc.
Know about Social problems include illiteracy, corruption, lack of women's rights, child labour, as well as Economic problems include inflation, unemployment, poverty etc.
Health structure of Pakistan?
What's the health budget of Pakistan?
What about AKU appeals to you? What if you don't get admitted?
1) What are 3 of your strengths and weaknesses? I used to be a pushover and would sacrifice a lot of my time and energy to please others, but i have learnt to cut down on that, because i realised i cannot always please everyone. I had a habit of being hard on myself for any fall backs or failures but i understand now that i must work my hardest and to the best of my ability, everything else will fall into place. I tend to overprepare for things, which results in my being slow to progress at first but i eventually catch up and due to my overpreparedness i feel i do better at things. In terms of strengths, I believe myself to be an effective leader because i have been in a leadership role on many occasions, and love to work in a team, motivating my peers, cooperating and coordinating with them, discussing different insights to tackle a particular task or project from different angles, and delegating tasks according to the strengths of each of the individuals in my team. I have a strong work ethic and love to work, im very passionate for it, especially because good quality progress gives me great satisfaction. I work well under stress, because ive learnt to perceive it in a positive light, because there are 2 types of stress: eustress and distress, and i can identify and replace distress through various activities.
2) Have you ever cheated? (You must say no, always, period)
3) What are your hobbies? (Be prepared to talk about this a lot – you want to lead the interview YOUR way and shape the conversation the way you want it – they will cross question you too to make sure everything you’re saying is legit)
After this intro they’ll move on to the uni talk. The three main things you need to cover are: 1) Why medicine? 2) Why AKU specifically? 3) Why should they take you?
While answering these questions, it is very important to link everything that has happened in your life to medicine. Like everything. You’re supposed to sell yourself a bit during this part and talk about how you’ve volunteered or interned, learned stuff, developed empathy, cared for the less fortunate, etc. If you’ve taken part in a science competition for example, tell them how the teamwork during those competitions will help you in your medical practice when you’ll have to team up with other doctors and nurses. This is what I mean by linking things to medicine.
According to your answers, they will comment or make a remark and then test your reaction to it. This is where your composure and confidence is tested: the ability to withhold your ground and stay true to yourself throughout the interview.
Would you rather be a leader or a follower? Your answer should be leader and you should talk about how you value leadership, especially in a country like Pakistan where people need someone to look up to. You should appear willing to take that responsibility (and confidently too). I don’t mean politics, I mean doctors as leaders. Who actually teach people and spread awareness and promote public health rather than just having their own private money making practice.
Do keep a few questions in mind to ask the interviewer.
READ UP ON AKU. https://www.aku.edu/about/at-a-glance/Pages/our-vision.aspx
Go through the website and learn all the details there about its educational programs, in which parts of the world it’s established, etc. Know what AKDN is and what it is doing in the world right now. You should know about AKU’s MBBS curriculum and societies too, eg: HASS, FALAH, has good faculty, has good research opportunities, state of the art equipment and labs, hostel facilities, sports center facilities. Also mention the new CIME building.
Know statistics about the pakistani health sector and health in general.
Show you are genuinely interested in helping people by bringing up community services and talk about AKU's Community Health sciences program (Do some research on it).
Show that you are a broad thinking open minded tolerant individual.
AKU is associated with NGOs in Pakistan, but does it have networks formed with international NGOs like the MSF or WHO?
What sports opportunities are offered here?
I heard about AKU developing a Social and Human sciences division here, is that true? When is it expected to be completed?
Can you tell me about your education and career path? What was your journey like until you made it as the medical professional you are today?
Can you tell me about the sports facilities/HASS/Falah
Wear a watch, carry a pen. But Never Ever look at the time.
Know what other program's they're offering.
> 9 What are social problems of Pakistan
> 10 What are health issues in Pakistan
> 11 Languages you speak at home and with friends
> 12 Which newspaper do you read? English or Urdu
> 13 What do you know about aku?
> 33 What programmes does AKU offer besides MBBS
AKU prospectus info
> 1. Aku seal- the circle represents the internationality of aku. Centre is star or sun—universal symbol for enlightenment and symbolic of divine light (nur). Sun has 49 rays to commemorate 49th imam Sir aga khan. Quranic ayat 3:103.
> 2. Many believe world going through Knowledge Society phase—where the source of influence would be through info, intelligence, insight rather than power or natural resources. Priority setting will be most imp-today ppl lost in gainig too much info—lost wisdom and knowledge that lies within—said by sir aga khan
> (this is very rep of what aku wants not only above 59% in test or alevels but an individual well rounded in academic and extra curriculars alike. Wants to produce not cogs in the machine.)
> 3. Key to progress duznt lie in any single source of teaching but in the openness to new expressions and fresh insights. (sir aga khan)
> 4. Development of truly global citizens that are able to cope and excel with diversity.
> 5. Aku campuses in Nairobi , khi, darusalam, arusha.
> 6. Stimulating experience and personal growth.—firoz rasul (prez)
> 7. First private uni pak—27 yrs old
> 8. Faculty of arts and sciences—for liberal arts edu
> 9. Committed to enhance position of women strengthened nursing+ teaching institutions
> 10. Strong position in AKDN by committing to social development via developing higher edu + research relevant to probs in pak+ muslims+ developing nations
> 11. Aku comprises of faculty of health sciences as med college n nursing school in akuh, AKU-IED edu develop institute in khi and Islamic civilizations institute in London.
> 12. 2002 est AKU-examination board
> 13. Uni launched training n teaching sites in Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya , Syria , Egypt, uk----also aims to develop AKU HEALTH N FAS IN Uganda kanya and Tanzania
> 14. Chancellor= aga kahn---chairman trustees= saidullah khan dehelvi
> 15. Harvard,mcgill,mcmaster contributed to faculty and curriculum,,,waterloo UBC partnerships enable higher training and research opportunities not available in Pakistan.
> 16. Only 3rd teaching hospital in world to get JCIA accreditation, and now also ISO certified
> 17. Patients behbud society donates zakat to akuh
> 18. Student activities include sports, art, culture and publications
> 19. Potential for leadership
> 20. MBBS curriculum renewed oct 2002—has evidence based medi edu, problem based learning and opp to work in clinical teams both in karaachi and on a national/ community in urban/ rural areas
> 21. AKU-MC conforms to the req of pak med and dental council—registering body in Pakistan
I had read anything about medical advancements, so I would suggest reading a few medical magazines online, it's always good to tell them that oh I found this new thing online and it was so very interesting.
why you don't want to go abroad? I said well I had the opportunity but I realised that for me the best decision would be to study medicine here
Go on the aku site, read their mission statement. Read whatever the hell you can and pick what all looks impressive. Aku is one of the best medical schools worldwide, it is in the city you live in, it has adopted the pbl and module system which is brilliant, and you feel that the environment aku supports is one you could very easily fit into and an environment which promotes learning. Let me tell you about the pbl and module system. Basically, in the old days medicine was taught subject wise, like anatomy then histology then pathology and so on. The module system is basically an integrated teaching approach, you have modules like blood, inflammation, gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system. So what happens is that you learn all the anatomy physio histo patho etc about blood, then about inflammation then about git then about cvs and so on. So after every module you have a rounded full understanding about the system you have studied. Which makes it very easy to learn. Pbl stands for problem based learning. At aku the class of 100 is divided into 10 or so groups with 10 or so people. Twice a week you have pbl sessions. In these sessions we get cases related to the module you are studying, from the cases you make learning objectives because in the first two years of med school your objective is to learn what is going on and what goes wrong to make a certain symptom or disease happen. The case represents a patient who came to the doctor and so so and so has happened to him or her. You then make a learning objective (LO) about abnormal and normal functions of whatever is the related case. We have pbls twice a week, on mondays and thursdays. It works like this, monday you get a case, thursday you discuss the case, thursday you get a new case, monday you discuss that case and get a new case and so on. So what's happening is that you're constantly studying, and that is only going to help you with your exam later because if you studied well in your pbl then come exam time when you're studying again it's going to be like revision. You don't have to mention all of this I'm just telling you what I like about it and what I think you should understand about it, days of pbl change every year so that's not important for you obvs. Also, say that you have friends at aku and they praise the system of learning a lot and well you'd just love to be in such a place.
read up on the health system of Pakistan, primary secondary tertiary and quarternary care (pak doesn't really have quarternary care much) just read up on it just in case.
-If you are working in an organization and you don’t agree with their rules, what would you do? (V tricky question – I said that I would possibly speak with the management to get clarity on the issue reason being that rules are made keeping the general well-being of the staff in mind so they cannot possibly be wrong)
She also asked me if there was something that I disliked about AKU? And she did NOT want to hear that it’s amazing and perfect so be prepared for such questions.
I simply told her that its very expensive and not easily affordable by even middle class at times but that was understandable since it’s a private hospital. I made it sound positive by saying that I liked the fact that they set up a special financial aid bank for less privileged people in recent years and are trying to improve upon the issue.
Talk about the research opportunities at aku, organisations such as Falah and its branches and about the university's international reputation.
Link leadership to doctors being leaders, and emphasise the importance of medical profession being a team based field.
connections to foreign NGOs like MSF and WHO
Older Posts On This Blog Related To The AKU Interview
http://theakuchallenge.blogspot.com/2013/11/aku-interview-guidelines.html
http://theakuchallenge.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-interview-situation.html
Update 9/25/2018: Tips for AKU Interviews by Manzar Abbas, Class of 2022 (Video)
https://youtu.be/LHvjdKc7KnE
Update 9/26/2018: Advice by Omaima Bhatti, Class of 2022
So heres some advice for the aku interview. Its okay to be nervous.
I would suggest you do mock interviews. Its really going to help. You can ask a sibling, or a friend, or a teacher.
So theres 2 interviews. There are a set of questions that all of them ask. Some would follow the questionnaire and it’ll seem like an Q and A session (both of mine were like this)
However some interviewers wont exactly ask all those questions. Theyll build up on your responses, they might try to intimidate you and ask questions that might set you off track. Keep your cool and stay confident.
Just remember its a conversation. And its about you. So you steer the conversation wherever you want it to go. Some general tips
-Just be yourself
-Make them see who you are.
Give them personal anecdotes ( i did that. I talked a lot about my family but it just came to me naturally. So be natural) Figure out what makes you stand out as a person. It could be something very small too. ( i actually said something, a certain thing about my personality that others might find a stupid thing to say in an interview, but thats the only thing my interviewer actually smiled at also coz i was smiling and laughing myself)
-you should know why youre choosing medicine. Dont make up a story. Dig deep into yourself and figure it out. (Took me a while to do it but i eventually did end up with an answer that was very true to me)
-I talked a lot about how im looking forward to meeting new people from all around the country and abroad. They love hearing about diversity in aku. But it was a heartfelt answer too.
-know your strengths and weaknesses really well and also talk about how you would overcome your weaknesses
-stress management!!! Both of my interviewers asked me about it and i had already thought of what i had to say. Be aware of what helps you get through stress.
-If you cant think of an answer for some question, let them know. For example, my interviewer asked me to tell him about an event in my life that really disappointed me and how i overcame it. I hesitated and i was thinking and nothing was coming to my mind and i said i really dont know. So the interviewer went into a description of an event from his own life and then he asked me if theres something like this you want to tel me and i apologised because i really couldnt think of anything and he said its okay and he moved on. And i think he liked the fact that i was being honest and didnt force an answer
-They might ask questions like have you ever cheated (my suggestion ( and also my seniors’) would be to say no because aku has a strict policy against cheating) they might try to trick you and give you scenarios and try to make you admit that its important to lie and cheat sometimes (happened with me) I said i would rather opt for honesty than have something weigh on my conscious.
-theres so much more. The general interview tips but its been covered in the other posts.
-you can ask for water
-dont interrupt the interviewer
Also, its good to carry a portfolio with photocopies of important documents/ certificates and resume. You would be bringing up your hobbies or extracurriculars and its good to have proof of it. Like you can take some of your artwork, or poems, or if you play music you can show them a video. For example, i took a research article that i had worked a bit on. I did show it and was asked to explain stuff about it.
And when i was talking about my stress management i told my interviewer that i use adult colouring apps and said ‘would you like to see its on my phone’ and he allowed it. And was impressed altho it was something pretty simple.
Just let them know youre not all about parhai
Present yourself well it matters a lot.
Let your passion show. Confidence, honesty, warm smiles, courtesy, remember these things.
IA everything will turn out fine.
Update 9/26/2018: Advice by Muhammad Talal, Class of 2021
I just want to add one thing. Ask them to read up a little about community medicine (aku's impact in community, basic health units etc). Also about public health. eg my interviewer asked me what would I do as a public health administrator (and I had no idea) (he then prompted me on things like access to clean water, food etc). This is important if the interviewer is from the CHS (Community Health Sciences) department, because faculty of that department lay a special emphasis on these topics that is often missed in the general discussion about medicine by others.
Update 9/25/2018: Tips for AKU Interviews by Manzar Abbas, Class of 2022 (Video)
https://youtu.be/LHvjdKc7KnE
Update 9/26/2018: Advice by Omaima Bhatti, Class of 2022
So heres some advice for the aku interview. Its okay to be nervous.
I would suggest you do mock interviews. Its really going to help. You can ask a sibling, or a friend, or a teacher.
So theres 2 interviews. There are a set of questions that all of them ask. Some would follow the questionnaire and it’ll seem like an Q and A session (both of mine were like this)
However some interviewers wont exactly ask all those questions. Theyll build up on your responses, they might try to intimidate you and ask questions that might set you off track. Keep your cool and stay confident.
Just remember its a conversation. And its about you. So you steer the conversation wherever you want it to go. Some general tips
-Just be yourself
-Make them see who you are.
Give them personal anecdotes ( i did that. I talked a lot about my family but it just came to me naturally. So be natural) Figure out what makes you stand out as a person. It could be something very small too. ( i actually said something, a certain thing about my personality that others might find a stupid thing to say in an interview, but thats the only thing my interviewer actually smiled at also coz i was smiling and laughing myself)
-you should know why youre choosing medicine. Dont make up a story. Dig deep into yourself and figure it out. (Took me a while to do it but i eventually did end up with an answer that was very true to me)
-I talked a lot about how im looking forward to meeting new people from all around the country and abroad. They love hearing about diversity in aku. But it was a heartfelt answer too.
-know your strengths and weaknesses really well and also talk about how you would overcome your weaknesses
-stress management!!! Both of my interviewers asked me about it and i had already thought of what i had to say. Be aware of what helps you get through stress.
-If you cant think of an answer for some question, let them know. For example, my interviewer asked me to tell him about an event in my life that really disappointed me and how i overcame it. I hesitated and i was thinking and nothing was coming to my mind and i said i really dont know. So the interviewer went into a description of an event from his own life and then he asked me if theres something like this you want to tel me and i apologised because i really couldnt think of anything and he said its okay and he moved on. And i think he liked the fact that i was being honest and didnt force an answer
-They might ask questions like have you ever cheated (my suggestion ( and also my seniors’) would be to say no because aku has a strict policy against cheating) they might try to trick you and give you scenarios and try to make you admit that its important to lie and cheat sometimes (happened with me) I said i would rather opt for honesty than have something weigh on my conscious.
-theres so much more. The general interview tips but its been covered in the other posts.
-you can ask for water
-dont interrupt the interviewer
Also, its good to carry a portfolio with photocopies of important documents/ certificates and resume. You would be bringing up your hobbies or extracurriculars and its good to have proof of it. Like you can take some of your artwork, or poems, or if you play music you can show them a video. For example, i took a research article that i had worked a bit on. I did show it and was asked to explain stuff about it.
And when i was talking about my stress management i told my interviewer that i use adult colouring apps and said ‘would you like to see its on my phone’ and he allowed it. And was impressed altho it was something pretty simple.
Just let them know youre not all about parhai
Present yourself well it matters a lot.
Let your passion show. Confidence, honesty, warm smiles, courtesy, remember these things.
IA everything will turn out fine.
Update 9/26/2018: Advice by Muhammad Talal, Class of 2021
I just want to add one thing. Ask them to read up a little about community medicine (aku's impact in community, basic health units etc). Also about public health. eg my interviewer asked me what would I do as a public health administrator (and I had no idea) (he then prompted me on things like access to clean water, food etc). This is important if the interviewer is from the CHS (Community Health Sciences) department, because faculty of that department lay a special emphasis on these topics that is often missed in the general discussion about medicine by others.
