We would like to get to know you on a more personal level. Outside of dentistry, what are your interests?
While this isn't a make-or-break question, your interviewer asks about your hobbies and interests for a couple of reasons. First, having hobbies and interests outside of work or school is an important part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance during residency. Second, learning about your interests will help them prepare for how you will mesh with the staff and other trainees in the program.
"I have a variety of hobbies that have honestly kept me sane during dental school, and I know they'll help as I venture into residency. I am an avid golfer and have been since I was 11 years old. I also am a big fan of non-fiction history books, mostly surrounding World War 2."
Talk openly and honestly with your interviewers about the activities that interest you outside of the dental field. This is an open-ended question that you can take in many different directions, but some possible answers can include physical activities that keep you in great shape and activities and interests that stimulate your mind in new ways.
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
I enjoy working out, traveling, and community service, my church is a big part of who I am. I also run a baking Instagram page with my little sister. We bake and decorate themed cakes for our friends and family for events like birthdays, graduations, baptisms, and bridal showers.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome! The interviewer will no doubt appreciate learning these personal tidbits about you. Can you somehow connect any of your outside hobbies to dentistry and/or the role? Does baking alleviate stress after a crazy workday? Does interacting with the folks who enjoy your baked goods require you to be personable in the same way you'll need to be with patients? Try to draw a connection to remind the interviewer that you're the best candidate for this position. Good job!
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