Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine Medical School Interview Guide

What Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine Looks For

To train outstanding physicians who are committed to the health of urban, underserved communities and to advancing biomedical knowledge through research and innovation. Temple is deeply embedded in North Philadelphia, one of the most economically challenged urban communities in the US.

Key Themes to Prepare

• ·Traditional open-file interviews.
• ·Temple's North Philadelphia location is its defining context — Temple University Hospital serves one of the most medically underserved populations in any major US city.
• ·Interviewers probe your authentic commitment to serving low-income, minority, and uninsured patients.
• ·Generic statements about "helping underserved populations" are not sufficient — interviewers want evidence of sustained engagement and genuine understanding of structural barriers to care.
• ·Temple's clinical training is intense and high-volume, preparing generalist physicians.
• ·The Lewis Katz School has grown its research enterprise through the Center for Inflammation, Translational and Clinical Lung Research and the Alzheimer's Center.
• ·Strong "Why Temple?" answers must engage with the North Philadelphia mission.

Common Question Topics

• ·"Why medicine?" and your personal journey
• ·Meaningful clinical and research experiences
• ·Healthcare policy and systemic challenges
• ·Strengths, weaknesses, and personal growth