Talk about a time you showed initiative by taking the lead in a situation during your residency training. Why did you take action as the leader, and what was the outcome?
Critical Care Intensivists need to have the ability to take charge and command a care team when things go south for a patient. You will have the opportunity to assume this responsibility many times during your fellowship training. Your interviewers want to see that you are confident enough to take the initiative when the opportunity arises as a fellow with their program. Most medical training programs don't provide formal leadership training, so your interviewers want to know that you are a natural leader.
"Growing up and into my college years, I was a natural leader to my peers. This is evident in my years of participating in team sports and being a captain of my teams. During my residency training, I was excited to be voted chief resident during my third year, and I've taken advantage of this opportunity. While recently rotating in our ICU, I took charge of a critical patient situation on a night shift and guided our nursing staff to help stabilize a patient. It was gratifying to be the physician in charge of directing care and feel comfortable and confident. This is an experience that I will carry with me for the next three years in your Critical Care fellowship."
Carefully describe a situation during your residency training where you saw a chance to lead and took advantage of it. Talk about the success of the moment and your biggest takeaway. You'll want to highlight your ability to communicate effectively and lead others as you answer this question. In the end, be sure to reiterate that you are willing and ready to take charge in the ICU as a fellow.
