The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) South Australian student branch recently conducted a workshop titled “Mastering Interview Skills for Entry into Medicine and Dentistry.” The event aimed to equip aspiring medical and dental students with essential skills for successful interviews.
The workshop began with a recitation from the Qur’an, creating a spiritual atmosphere and reflecting the values of Islam. Following this, AIMA student leaders, medical students Noreen Khan and Abdullah Rizwan, delivered a comprehensive presentation focusing on key communication techniques crucial for interviews. Their discussion covered the importance of structure, professional conduct, and the necessary depth and breadth of responses, providing students with a solid framework to approach their upcoming interviews confidently.
Participants then took part in eight interactive case reviews based on common interview themes. Topics included rural and remote health, patient communication, teamwork, and personal management. Each station was facilitated by a mentor who guided students through the practice of their responses and offered tailored feedback.
The workshop also featured catering provided by Half a Cup Café, which was well-received with an assortment of cakes and muffins enjoyed by all attendees. Representing the AIMA South Australia executive team, Dr. Fatimah Ashraf and Dr. Jahangir attended the event to offer support and commend the student organisers for their initiative.
This free workshop highlighted the proactive steps that AIMA SA students are taking to address gaps in community support, aiming to empower the next generation of Muslim doctors and dentists. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the practical guidance and mentorship provided during the event.
Looking forward, the AIMA team has announced plans to host a nationwide online interview workshop via Zoom in November 2023, continuing their commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals. This initiative reflects AIMA’s dedication to enhancing the skills and confidence of aspiring medical and dental students across Australia.
