How to Answer: How do setbacks emotionally affect you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Western University School of Dental Medicine Dental School interview.
2. How do setbacks emotionally affect you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently during their time in dental school training. Given the high workload, the interviewing team at Western University School of Dental Medicine knows that these setbacks can be amplified and wants to hear that you handle them with a positive attitude and a focus on the task at hand.
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 9th, 2022
How to Answer
While attending dental school, your grades can determine your future career's success. Discuss with the interviewers how you typically cope with setbacks in your academic work. If possible, explain how you face problems head-on while maintaining your composure. If you have a preferred method for handling the stress that comes with these situations, the team at Western University would love to hear your coping strategies.
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 9th, 2022
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a project that I have put a lot of time and effort into. I understand that setbacks happen to every dental student - despite their knowledge and level of expertise. If I experience a major setback while with the Western University School of Dental Medicine, I will take a few moments to debrief internally, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a faculty member. Then, I move on. Rather than dwell on my mistakes, I choose to learn from them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on September 9th, 2022