What do I need to wear to my medical school interview?

Question

I was thinking about wearing just dark slacks, a belt, dress shoes, and a white dress shirt, with a watch as an accessory.

I'm 20, turning 21, but I have quite a young looking face for my age, as if I'm still a teenager; I have a sport coat and ties, but they really don't look right on me, making me look like a 13 year old boy in a men's business suit.

Still, I'm worried my dark slacks/white shirt combo won't be viewed as formal or professional enough; You'll have to take my word for it, but I'm an attractive person - I'm worried that I'll inadvertently give off the impression that I'm there to get a date, instead of trying to clinch my place in med school, if I go tie-less.

While I'm at it, I might as well ask if I should go with a short, clean haircut, or style my medium-length hair in some formal fashion. I'd really prefer to go with my casual hairstyle, since I feel that it best suits the shape of my face, but again, is it too casual?

Answer 1

At 20 you are having medical school interviews?   That's a bit young.

But to yur question:  The outfit you outlined is fine.  You could add a tie without a sportcoat.  

The most important thing is to feel comfortable. Go with your hairstyle the way your normally wear it.  As long as you appear well-groomed, the specifics will not be that important.  The people interviewing are going to be much more interested in your  personality and how you respond to questions.  

Answer 2

I understand that you are concerned about looking young, but consider that some of the people conducting the interview may consider your casual dress being representative of a casual attitude towards your application process and medical school in general.

Most, if not all of the other applicants will be wearing at least coats if not matching suits.  This is like an important job interview and you should dress in a way that conveys a serious outlook towards your future.

Regarding your hair, the length is not as important, as the grooming.  If you hair has a tendency to be unruly then you should consider a shorter style, but if it is nicely groomed at your normal length then it should be fine.

Mother M has suggested that your responses are more important than your attire, and this is true.  But if your attire is deemed inappropriate by the interviewer, then they may be distracted from your responses.  Once you are a physician, you can dress as you like, as a potential student you still need to conform.  At least until you have an acceptance letter in your hand.

Answer 3

Most interviewees for med school wear suits with ties.  It is a fairly formal type of interview

Answer 4

Every medical school has a 'corporate culture'.  West coast schools are far more informal than east coast schools.  A coat and tie on the west coast might go against you while it's considered appropriate on the east coast.  The best way to determine your dress style is to visit the campus.  If instructors are wearing ties, you should also.  The AdCom is expecting you to try to impress, but I wouldn't wear anything that makes you uncomfortable.