Hey, sorry for totally killing the flow of the chat here about kids... I'm not allowed one until I can keep my succulent alive...
I've been accepted into med starting next year so I just wanted to say a BIG thanks to those on here who helped me out and offered advice
I'd also like to give back by jotting down a few thoughts about my own experience which (hopefully) will be of some use to someone later, so here goes:
Background (and CV)
I applied under allied health profession path after 5 years of working as a clinical pharmacist/government role (including my intern year).
Overall, I tried to demonstrate that I had a range of experiences. In each, I wrote a bit about what my roles involved - keeping in mind how it relates to medicine/health, as well as the interview topics provided on the uni website (ie, communication skills, academic/other achievements, knowledge of health system etc). I also tried to show I haven't just done business as usual study/work (ie, I included volunteering, research, ballet, piano, and being bilingual in there). Also having good/relevant referees - someone clinical if possible, your current employer, and someone who knows you really well that you work with!
Cover letter/Statement of interest
I took a more artistic flare to it and used quotes and examples. My thoughts are, they're likely to be reading 100s of these so it needs to stand out. Stating how much you've always wanted this or how you want to help people probably isn't enough. Think: why you want it; what you know of the role; and what you can bring.
Interview
I was offered an interview around 26 May and referees were contacted via email for written references about two weeks later. Actual interview (around 45mins) took place last week of June.
Tips: really think about why you want to do medicine; really know your own statement and CV (probably not applicable: I was asked about my favourite composer and Jane Austen book); think of relevant work/study examples; familiarise yourself with the health system and ethics (I wasn't asked too in-depth questions on these); and be ready to think on your feet on scenario based questions. They also want to take the time to know you - including your interests and hobbies.
Hope that was somewhat useful! Happy to help out if anyone wants to ask me anything later.