Sir, I read with interest the article in the issue of the BDJ relating to the multi-mini interviews introduced at the University of Cardiff Dental School (BDJ 2012; 212: 331–335). I was even more impressed with a photograph of, I presume, a potential undergraduate, attempting to tighten up some screws in a block, using a screwdriver, but observing with a mouth mirror (News; BDJ 2012; 212: 309).

I think back to my time in the mid-1960s when I was being interviewed for a place at University College Hospital Dental School. I was questioned about any manual dexterity skills that I had acquired, and proudly explained that I had constructed and carefully painted virtually all the Airfix range of plastic model aircraft kits, not to mention Revell, KeilKraft and other brands from the distant past.

My ideal dinner party guests would probably have included The Shadows and John Lee Hooker.

This seemed to satisfy requirements, and I gladly accepted a place to study my chosen profession.

I am not sure if I would have been so successful had I been subjected to today's inquisition.

1. Cheam