What would you say is the riskiest decision you have made in your career as an Anesthesiologist so far?

"I would consider the riskiest decision I've made so far was my decision to step away from my family to pursue training in Anesthesiology. My father and two older brothers are in family practice, and I always thought that would be my path in life as well. As I progressed through medical school, I gravitated towards surgical and trauma care for patients, and my first rotation in Anesthesiology sold me on this career path. I initially feared backlash from my family for not carrying on the family tradition, but they couldn't have been more proud of my decision to branch away and do my own thing. The risk I took was breaking out of my comfort zone, and I couldn't be happier with my decision."

Before your interview, put some serious thought into what you would consider the biggest risk you have taken in your career up to this point. Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make and explain why it was risky. Describe who the situation impacted, as well as the outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how your decision paid off or any recognition you received for your success. The goal of your response is to show the interviewer that you can analyze a situation and that you understand the importance of making well-calculated decisions, even if there is some risk involved.