How Do I Prepare for an Externship Interview?
After completing the phone interview, select candidates will move forward to interview with their preferred externship site. This is an important relationship because you will need to have a clinic placement to be eligible for our program. This guide is meant to help you prepare so that you can make a positive impression and secure a placement that aligns with your goals. While this is not a job interview, it is important to treat it like one because you are interviewing for an 8-month placement and potentially getting hired by the organization after completing the program. Whether your interview is in person or virtual, following these guidelines will help you present yourself professionally and confidently.
General Interview Preparation
Here are some essential tips to help you put your best foot forward.
Before the Interview
Research the Site & Role – Understand what the organization does, its values, and how those values apply to the medical assistant role.
Prepare Your Responses – Be ready to talk about your experience, strengths, and why you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant.
Practice Answering Questions – Consider practicing with a friend, mentor, or even recording yourself.
Prepare Questions to Ask – Interviews are a two-way street. Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the organization or what the student experience is like in that clinic. Here are some example questions you can ask:
What traits or skills do you look for in a successful medical assistant externship candidate?
How does the clinic provide feedback and support to externs to help them develop their skills during the program?
What are the clinic's expectations regarding professionalism and patient interaction for externs?
- Do a Dry Run - Whether your interview is in-person or virtual, it's a good idea to do a test run to make sure you can get to the site on time or that your connection, video, speaker, and microphone are working as desired. Here are some specific tips for each interview format.
In-Person Interview Tips
Know the location, how long it takes to get there, and where to park or which public transportation route to take.
Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early to show punctuality and preparedness.
Silence your phone and avoid bringing anything that could take your attention away from the conversation.
Virtual Interview Tips
Minimize background noise and distractions. Make sure your face is well-lit and visible.
Even though the interview is virtual, a professional top helps make a good impression.
Look at the camera, not the screen, and sit up straight to show confidence and engagement.
Close unnecessary apps and silence your phone to avoid interruptions.
Professionalism & Appearance
We encourage applicants to come as themselves, but there are some non-negotiables when it comes to making a good impression:
Clean & Well-Groomed – A little effort goes a long way. Make sure you’re tidy and presentable, don't forget the fingernails!
Clothing Matters – Clothes should be clean, free of holes, and appropriate for a professional setting.
Very Demure, Vey Mindful – Some clinics have specific dress codes, and interviews are the time to dress conservatively. Choose clothes that are professional and modest.
Smell Matters Too – Avoid strong scents (perfume, cologne). Strong scents can affect patients with asthma or other illnesses, so it's a good idea to skip the spritz before going into the clinic.
If you need help finding professional clothing, consider reaching out to local charities and organizations that provide interview attire, such as:
Summary
Be yourself! Interviews can be stressful, but it helps to go in knowing that you are prepared and confident with yourself.
One piece of advice is that interviewers look for enthusiasm. If candidates come across as not interested, then they are often overlooked even though they would be great externs!
Good luck!
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