University of Iowa Health Management & Policy

By: Abbey Even Two words: Fellowship Interviews. It is that time of year when second and third year students are applying for fellowships and preparing for phone and on-site interviews. For 10 years, Witt Kieffer has visited our campus to help students prepare for interviews while providing supportive feedback. It has also been an opportunity for alumni to give back to the program and participate as mock interviewers. For two days, students divided into small groups with current health care professionals (Witt Kieffer reps or alumni) to participate in mock phone and face-to-face interviews while fellow classmates and alumni provided positive and constructive feedback. Thanks to the honest feedback from classmates and current health care professionals, we were able to walk away with a greater understanding of areas we were strong in and areas we could improve upon. Additionally, we were reminded of helpful tips on how to succeed in an interview. The Witt Kieffer Seminar was a

By: Kate Swanic Networking. To some, such a term represents a mix of awkward conversations and long, almost agonizing, pauses. For myself and my fellow students, such were the experiences we expected as we made our way to Brown Deer Golf Course on the night of September 11. Although I have always considered myself strong in the art of conversation, I was nervous. We finally had the opportunity to meet face to face with individuals who once stood in our shoes and who we aspire to become someday.  As alumni began filtering in, students moved in to greet them as they entered. From there the evening was a success. Student and alumni gathered together in one room to simply converse. One of the most important aspects of the night, for me, was that I could engage with these professionals in a no pressure environment. As students we could test our skills and build relationships with those who undoubtedly understand us best in our current position as students. I enjoyed eac