MockQuestions

University of Tennessee Veterinary Medicine Mock Interview

Question 3 of 40 for our University of Tennessee Veterinary Medicine Mock Interview

University of Tennessee was updated by on October 7th, 2022. Learn more here.

Question 3 of 40

How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

"Last year, I received a low grade on a chemistry project. When I approached my professor about the low grade, he said, 'You can do better. I expected more from you.' I was taken aback at first, but once I had time to absorb what was said, I realized that he expected more from me because he had high expectations of what I could do. It was a compliment and a challenge; all rolled into one! I re-did the assignment with more enthusiasm and passion the second time around. My grade improved significantly, and I thanked my professor for holding me to a higher standard."

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How to Answer: How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an University of Tennessee Veterinary Medicine interview.

  • 3. How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      The interviewers want to see that you are confident and mature enough to accept feedback and criticism positively, even when it is unsolicited. Not all feedback will be delivered in a friendly, easy-to-absorb manner. Think of a time you received feedback or criticism that was a bit hurtful or surprising. Discuss how you reacted productively. Tell a story that shows the interviewers how you take criticism and learn from it. Talk about how you successfully implemented changes in response to the feedback.

      Written by Krista Wenz on October 7th, 2022

      Focus Your Answer On

      Show the interviewers that you are open and receptive to constructive feedback. While some feedback can be difficult to receive, it is best to look at criticism and feedback as a learning opportunity and a chance to improve.

      Written by Krista Wenz on October 7th, 2022

      Answer Example

      "Last year, I received a low grade on a chemistry project. When I approached my professor about the low grade, he said, 'You can do better. I expected more from you.' I was taken aback at first, but once I had time to absorb what was said, I realized that he expected more from me because he had high expectations of what I could do. It was a compliment and a challenge; all rolled into one! I re-did the assignment with more enthusiasm and passion the second time around. My grade improved significantly, and I thanked my professor for holding me to a higher standard."

      Written by Krista Wenz on October 7th, 2022

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "As someone who desires to feel capable and be seen as competent, I value feedback and criticism. I constantly look for ways to improve and learn from my mistakes. A doctor I work with says that a good assistant is excellent at anticipating needs, but he only says it when I have failed to do that. I understand that for him to do his job well, I need to do mine well, so I make sure to incorporate his feedback into my work."

      Marcie's Feedback

      Great! It will be important to the interviewer that you aren't afraid of making mistakes and that you learn from them. Personalizing your answer by discussing the doctor you work with really strengthens your answer. Good job!