The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) South Australia student branch successfully hosted a workshop titled “Mastering Interview Skills for Entry into Medicine and Dentistry.” The event aimed to assist aspiring medical and dental students in honing essential interview techniques.
The workshop commenced with a recitation from the Qur’an, establishing a spiritual atmosphere that reflects the values of Islam. Following this, AIMA student leaders and medical students, Noreen Khan and Abdullah Rizwan, delivered a comprehensive presentation. They focused on communication skills vital for interviews, covering aspects such as structure, professional conduct, and the depth of responses. This session equipped participants with a structured framework to approach their upcoming interviews with confidence.
Participants then engaged in eight interactive case reviews that featured common interview themes. These themes included rural and remote health, patient communication, teamwork, and personal management. Each review station was led by a mentor who provided personalized feedback, allowing students to practice their responses in a supportive environment.
The workshop was further enhanced by catering from Half a Cup Café, whose selection of cakes and muffins was well-received by attendees. Representing the AIMA South Australia executive team, Dr. Fatimah Ashraf and Dr. Jahangir attended the event, offering encouragement and recognizing the initiative taken by the student organizers.
This free workshop exemplifies how AIMA SA students are addressing gaps in community support by empowering the next generation of Muslim doctors and dentists. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the practical guidance and mentorship provided.
Looking forward, the AIMA team has announced plans for a nationwide online interview workshop scheduled for November 2023. This initiative, which will take place via Zoom, aims to continue their commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals. The ongoing efforts of AIMA SA underscore their dedication to fostering a supportive environment for aspiring medical and dental students.
