1 Month Till ST3 Orthopaedic Interviews 2015

1 Month Till ST3 Orthopaedic Interviews 2015

With the 2015 ST3 Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery Interviews only 1 month away we look at how to get the most out of the last few weeks of preparation.

1. Know The Interviews
By now you should be aware of all the stations, format and timings so that there are no surprises on the day. If not head over to The Interview area for a quick refresher.

2. Read the Handbook
The Yorkshire and Humber deanery website offers an Applicants’ Handbook that has been updated for 2015 applicants. The handbook covers everything from interview dates to marking and what to expect on the day. Make sure you read this carefully as it also contains information on what to bring with you on the day and information about how to claim travel expenses.

3. Read Our Core Knowledge and Interview Tips
Our Core Knowledge articles cover common orthopaedic emergencies and are quick and easy recaps that cover some of the key aspects of orthopaedic knowledge that may well be asked in the Clinical station. Make sure you also read the articles on Interview technique and CV layout.

4. Get Your Portfolio and CV Reviewed
Hopefully your portfolio is now finalised. There is still time to get feedback from both consultants and registrars who have recently gained training numbers. You may not agree with every suggestion but try to pick the best bits and correct any spelling or formatting errors before the day.

5. Keep Revising Anatomy
Remembering musculoskeletal anatomy can be tricky and apps like Instant Anatomy Flashcards and the Anatomy Questions from our Online Question Bank allow quick testing and recall of key, commonly tested anatomy topics on your mobile device when in work or at home.

6. Sign Up to The Question Bank
Our Question Bank features over 450 unique questions covering every station and allows non-medics and peers to ask you questions under pressure. All questions have comprehensive answers and links to evidence and can be accessed on all mobile devices.

7. Practise, Practise, Practise
Organise formal practise sessions covering different stations with peers who have recently got an ST3 number and who know the process. Knowing how you react to quick-fire questions under pressure is key and will help you to spot any holes in your knowledge.

8. Keep Your Eyes On Your Email
Both the Presentation station topic and Interview Slot Sign Up information will be emailed out to you in the next few weeks. Make sure that the email address you used to register for the Oriel application system works and you check it regularly. Changing this to an address that pops up on your phone as an alert will make sure you see the email as soon as it arrives and gives you the best chance of selecting your chosen interview slot.

9. Prepare Your Presentation
Once the presentation topic is emailed out start practising and honing your presentation so that it is within 3-minutes and you feel confident enough to answer questions. Practise with peers and consultants and keep your OHP slide simple.

10. Relax
In the last few days before the interviews make sure you take time to relax. A lot of interview technique is about staying calm and being personable so make sure you talk with your friends and get out of ‘revision mode’ before the interviews.

We’ll be adding more articles online in the run up to interviews so make sure you follow us on twitter and check back regularly. Good luck!