Interview preparation guide
A virtual interview technology backup: residency interview preparation guide
Prepare a practical way to recover if the connection, camera or sound fails. A backup is useful only when it matches the program's communication and platform instructions.
How to prepare
- 1
Test the whole setup
Check camera, microphone, connection, power and the actual platform before interview day. Use the same device and location you plan to use. Close distracting applications and confirm that notifications or calls will not interrupt the session. A speed-test result alone does not prove the platform works.
- 2
Agree the contact route in advance
Save the coordinator contact and read any instructions for reconnecting or reporting a failure. AAMC suggests a backup plan, such as supplying a phone number in advance. Do not assume a phone interview is automatically permitted or switch to an unapproved platform because it is familiar.
- 3
Respond calmly and verify the next step
If a failure occurs, use the designated route, briefly state the problem and follow the response. Record which session was affected without exposing private discussion content. After reconnection or rescheduling, confirm the remaining itinerary. Do not claim the problem is solved until the other side can hear or see you as needed.
A practical exercise
Tested setup: [device, platform, location and power]. Failure route: [program contact and instructions]. Recovery note: [what failed], [affected session], [action taken], [confirmed next step].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC's virtual preparation guide recommends a technology check, charged device, nearby power and a backup plan.
The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not required program procedures or predictions of interview scoring. Follow your actual invitation and program instructions.
Mistakes to avoid
- Having no reachable contact.
- Switching platforms without agreement.
- Testing a different device from the one used on the day.
Check your preparation
- Can you reach the contact if video fails?
- Is power available?
- Has the actual setup been tested?
Questions for your practice review
- What should I do if I disconnect?
- Is another contact method approved?
- Who confirms a replacement session?
Common questions
Should I use a phone as backup?
Follow the program's instructions. AAMC suggests advance contact planning but does not authorize a particular replacement format for every program.
Does stable internet remove the risk?
No. Test the platform, audio, camera and power as well.
Should I keep reconnecting repeatedly?
Use the stated recovery route and support instructions rather than inventing a retry procedure.
Related guides
Sources
This page is general editorial guidance based on the sources above. It is not a prediction of any program's questions or a statement of its current policies.