Preparing for medical school interviews is an essential component of a successful application. Besides an outstanding GPA and MCAT score, schools look for other qualities in candidates, including research experience, shadowing, and clinical work.
Most medical schools prioritize interprofessional education, which involves collaboration between healthcare professionals. They also encourage students to volunteer and provide healthcare services to underserved populations.
OHSU
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a public research university primarily focused on health sciences. The school’s primary campus, which includes two hospitals, is located in Portland, Oregon. Its academic programs include medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health and other related fields. OHSU is also home to a number of research centers and institutes. OHSU’s mission is to educate tomorrow’s health professionals and scientists in top-tier programs and prepare them for a lifetime of learning, leadership and contribution. It also explores new basic, clinical and applied research frontiers in health and biomedical sciences, environmental sciences and information sciences. Its goal is to deliver excellence in healthcare and extend its education, research and community service missions through a dynamic interdisciplinary environment.
OHSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, as well as the health of Oregonians. Its 2025 plan captures this central theme: “Building a diverse, equitable environment where everyone can thrive.” The school believes that embracing diversity and equity is the right thing to do, and it leads to better research and more innovative solutions for patients.
OHSU offers several undergraduate and graduate degrees, including the MD/PhD and MD/MPH dual-degree programs. In addition, it offers a postbaccalaureate research education program, known as PREP, for students from underrepresented groups. The program pairs mentees with near-peer mentors and OHSU faculty. The program also provides immersion experiences in rural Oregon communities.
PNWU
PNWU offers students many opportunities to learn the skills of the healthcare profession. Its academic programs include a Master of Arts in Medical Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Both degrees prepare students to be leaders, scholars, and change agents who serve rural and underserved communities. The university is also a leader in interprofessional education, working with other universities in the Yakima Valley to teach students how to collaborate.
The College of Osteopathic Medicine is a highly ranked program that is focused on the needs of rural and medically underserved communities. The college utilizes regional sites throughout the Pacific Northwest and teaches osteopathic principles and practices. The college has a strong commitment to recruiting and educating students from rural or medically underserved areas and encourages them to return to their home community after graduation.
PNWU’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an average GPA of 3.6 and an MCAT score of 503. To prepare for the rigorous application process, students should participate in student clubs, take classes, volunteer at local hospitals, and gain clinical experience. PNWU’s student clubs support healthcare careers, provide learning opportunities, and improve the quality of life for students. For example, the PNWU Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) holds free national memberships in ACOFP and WAFP, provides events to students interested in family medicine, and works with GME for residency networking.
WUHS
WUHS is an international medical university dedicated to educating students and advancing knowledge in a dynamic, collaborative environment. The school offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in multiple fields. In addition to its academic offerings, WUHS also operates patient care centers in Pomona and Lebanon, Oregon. These facilities include a medical center, pet health center, dental center, eye care institute, and pharmacy.
Whether you are looking to advance your career in the public or private sector, WUHS can help. The program’s curriculum is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the field of health services administration, management, or research. Its interdisciplinary nature ensures that you will be prepared to meet the challenges of the changing health system.
The school’s mission is to educate a diverse body of students and advance medical knowledge in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Its goal is to foster the development of dedicated clinicians, scientists, and public health professionals who will have a sustained positive impact on the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide. Its core values are: Integrity – embracing the highest standards of ethical behavior and exemplary moral character. Respect – recognizing the value and worth of all individuals. Cooperation – promoting open communication and teamwork. The university is non-discriminatory and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, disability, age, or religion in its policies, procedures, and practices.
Lewis & Clark College
Students at Lewis & Clark College receive an education that prepares them to be innovative thinkers, thoughtful leaders, and creative problem solvers—traits that are valuable in any profession. The college offers a broad range of academic programs, including the traditional liberal arts majors, as well as pre-professional degrees in engineering, law, health professions, and business & management. Students often choose to double-major or add a minor.
Lewis & Clark’s curriculum integrates theory and practice, cultivates leadership and civic engagement, and embraces diversity and sustainability as dimensions of a just society. Founded in 1867, the college is situated on an historic M. Lloyd Frank estate in South Portland’s Collins View neighborhood. The campus consists of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Graduate School of Education and Counseling, and the Law School.
The college is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. In addition, the school is a member institution of the College Entrance Examination Board and the American Council on Education.
The college is also highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 69%. Applicants are strongly encouraged to take Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or honors courses, which will improve their chances of getting in. In addition, the school offers free tutoring for undergraduates. The school has a unique combination of old and new buildings, and the campus is beautiful.