A fellow medical student often shows up on rotation hung-over and smelling like alcohol. You decide to talk to them in private. Enter the room and have this conversation.
This question is a role-play opportunity or 'acting' question. For acting questions, a panel of interviewers, or perhaps even an actor, will be waiting in the interview room, and you must approach the situation as you would in real life. This role play, or acting style question requires you to enter the room in character and speak to the panel as though they are the fellow medical student that you are approaching in regards to their drinking habits. The interview panel will be looking for strength in character, proper concern, empathy, and an attitude of helpfulness towards your peer.
"I've noticed some concerning behavior, and because I like you and care about you, I thought I should approach you in person before reporting any observations to our supervisor. For the past few weeks, I have noticed you smell like alcohol and often appear disheveled from what seems to be a lack of rest. Is there anything going on in your life that you need to discuss? If you are not comfortable opening up to me, there are many resources available to help with the stress and pressure of medical school. I want what is best for you, and for you to succeed, I think it's time you put some thought into improving how you show up to your rotations."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
How have the rotations been for you? They have been exhausting for me, both physically and emotionally. Have you been able to cope with the stressful rotations? I know we're all feeling stressed about the long hours and constant work we have to do. Have you been doing anything to take your mind off the rotations? Yeah, I know, we're all busy. Any activity you've been doing to relax? Have you been sleeping well? I am concerned because I have noticed you are smelling of alcohol during the shifts. Is there anything you'd like to talk about? If any of us are not at our best, the patients suffer. Would you like someone to talk to? I am available to talk as well as our colleagues if you'd like. Are you sure you're okay to see patients? I can cover for you if you'd like. I am worried about your well-being as well as the well-being of our patients. If this behavior persists, I will have to tell our attending. Patient safety is my utmost priority.
Rachelle's Feedback
You ask some really great questions here, and it sounds like the hope is that your colleague will open up to you and have a transparent conversation that leads to change. It's great that you emphasize putting patient safety first.
Anonymous Answer
Hey, I've been a little concerned about you lately as I have noticed that you have been showing up to rotation seemingly hungover with the smell of alcohol. Is everything okay? I wanted to talk to you about it personally and privately to confirm my concerns, before going to our supervisor and addressing them. If you don't feel comfortable talking to me about it, can I at least guide or recommend you some resources that might help you? I know medical school is stressful, and I might not understand all the things going on in your life that may be contributing, but I wanted to let you know that I am here for you, not just as a fellow student, but as a friend. If you need anything please come talk to me. I want you to do exceptionally well.
Stephanie's Feedback
This is such a difficult situation to be faced with, but your response is spot-on! You do a good job of addressing the situation while showing compassion for your classmate. Your conversation feels very natural and authentic.
Anonymous Answer
Hey, how is the program going for you so far? I feel like you have been having a hard time and I wanted to check in to make sure that you are doing ok. If you don't want to talk to me do you have a friend or counselor that you can talk to about your problems? I have noticed the smell of alcohol on you and I am wondering if you are in the right condition to be seeing patients. Patients are the number one priority and we cannot allow them to suffer when our personal lives become overwhelming. If we cannot address the issue together then I feel I must include a supervising clinician in the discussion to avoid any potential impacts on the patient.
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent! You come across as friendly, caring, and firm about keeping patients safe, which the interviewer will appreciate. This is a strong answer; great job!
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