30 Diagnostic Radiology Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Diagnostic Radiology Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 2. Capability Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Diligence Questions
- 6. Direct Questions
- 7. Discovery Questions
- 8. Problem Solving Questions
- 9. Role-Specific Questions
- 10. Situational Questions
- 11. Stress Questions
- 12. Teamwork Questions
- 13. Technical Questions
- 14. Tough Questions
Ask The Interviewer
1. Do you have any questions about our diagnostic radiology residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most residency programs will have a detailed description on their website stating what is involved with the program, clinical rotations, the primary teaching site, accredited length of training, the residency directors, mentoring, and more. The interviewers want to see that you have researched their program and do not want to answer questions you could have found on their website, showing a lack of attention to detail. Good questions to ask are what your first week would look like if accepted into the program and if any of the interviewers have suggestions for you to succeed in the program.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website and speaking with many of your fellows and residents, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What type of practices are most of your graduates going into after their residency? What type of feedback are you receiving from your graduates? Finally, what would you describe as your program's strengths?"
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Capability
2. How did you prepare for the USMLE?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) is one that all United States physicians will need to pass to obtain licensure. The interviewers ask this question to learn about your study habits and how you prepare for important exams. Describe if you joined a study group, hired a tutor, attended a preparatory course, made flashcards, or studied alone every night.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prepared for the USMLE by starting to study on the day I started medical school. I had access to USMLE study materials through student support services at my medical school and formed a peer study group. We studied for one hour every night and joined a live review course online. By keeping a regimented schedule and holding each other accountable, everyone in my study group passed the exam."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
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Career Goals
3. What are your career goals after completing the residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are curious about your career goals to see how they can support you during your residency. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, they want to know your sub-specialty. Or perhaps your goal is to work as a diagnostic radiologist overseas or in a teaching capacity at a teaching hospital. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"After completing my residency, I want to pursue a fellowship in Pediatric Radiology. This subspecialty interests me because infants and some young children cannot voice their complaints. I want to help give these children a voice by helping diagnose and treat a child in distress using diagnostic imaging tools. Knowing how to solve complex and challenging medical conditions is intellectually gratifying. After completing my fellowship, my goal is to get hired at a children's hospital as a pediatric radiologist."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Career Goals
4. Do you aspire to have your own practice one day? If so, what about business ownership interests you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most diagnostic radiologists work for other institutions rather than own their own practice due to the start-up costs of starting a business. The interviewers ask this question to understand your career goals and where you see yourself working after completing your residency and/or fellowship. If you do not plan to own your own business, explain why.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not plan on having my own practice one day. While I consider myself an entrepreneur and love the idea of owning a business, the thought of starting a practice does not interest me. Working in a hospital or established practice is more appealing because I want to focus on being a radiologist rather than a business owner."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Career Goals
5. Do you have plans to pursue a fellowship after completing the residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Approximately 68% of graduating diagnostic radiology residents enter fellowships in the United States. The interviewers are curious about your career goals after you complete the residency program and want to see if you will be one of the 68% who does so. They want to see if a sub-specialty interests you and why you chose to pursue a fellowship. There is no wrong answer, and this is not a trick question. The interviewers simply want to get to know your future goals a little better.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not plan to pursue a fellowship after completing my residency. I have a baby on the way and do not want to take time away from my family to enter a fellowship."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Compatibility
6. How will you earn the trust of your colleagues?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is essential to nurture workplace relationships. Talk to the interviewers about how you plan to earn the trust of your new colleagues should you match the residency. The interviewers would like to know how you can win your new colleagues over to determine if you will be a good fit for the residency program.
Focus on giving examples from your past. Describe how you earned the trust of your coworkers by getting to know them and their families, keeping your word when you say you are going to do something, lending a hand when others need help, or covering a coworker's shift when they have a family emergency.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel the best way to earn the trust of my colleagues is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Showing respect, actively listening, and getting to know my colleagues and their families are also ways I earn trust. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Compatibility
7. Why did you choose our residency program to apply to?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As of 2020, there are 212 diagnostic radiology residency programs in the United States. The interviewers ask this question to see why you chose their residency program over others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their diagnostic radiology residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, dynamic and interactive training program, or because they are a research hospital. Let the interviewers know your reasons for choosing their residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, my mentor was a resident in your diagnostic radiology program and highly recommended the training and guidance he received. Secondly, your program was ranked number one based on student activity reported in the AMA Residency and Fellowship database. Finally, I was pleased to learn that you offer up to six positions in your facility after the residency has ended. After researching your program in greater depth, I decided this is the program I want to attend, and I would be honored to be offered one of the positions after completing my residency."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Compatibility
8. In your opinion, what qualities make an excellent diagnostic radiologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Outstanding radiologists are patient, compassionate, curious, empathetic, and dedicated. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional attention to detail and a keen and eager mind. The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent diagnostic radiologist, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that will help you succeed in this field and make you an excellent diagnostic radiologist.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent diagnostic radiologist. You must be patient, curious, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, diagnostic radiologists must have an aptitude for problem-solving and working on a team. Excellent radiologists also have analytical and critical-thinking skills, which help diagnose and treat highly complex diseases. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed in this field."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Compatibility
9. How would you describe your bedside manner?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Bedside manner is a physician's approach or attitude toward a patient. The interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the qualities they seek in a resident. They want to hear that you are kind, patient, friendly, compassionate, and caring. Now is the time to describe how you treat all patients with respect, empathy, kindness, and compassion.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would describe my bedside manner as nurturing, comforting, patient, and caring. I approach all patients the same. I introduce myself, ask their name, and what I can do for them. I take the time to actively listen to their concerns, showing them I care about them and want to help them. I believe all healthcare professionals should treat patients the way they want others to treat themselves or loved ones."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Compatibility
10. What are three strengths you would bring to our program as a resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see if you have the characteristics and qualities they seek in a resident. They want to hear that you are self-aware and confident enough to identify and describe your strengths. Think of three strengths that will help you succeed as a resident and bring value to the diagnostic radiology residency program. Some strengths that will make you stand out as a candidate include the following:
- Strong work ethic
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Diligence
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
After listing your three strengths, give examples of how they will help you succeed as a resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"The three strengths I would bring to the program as a resident is my thirst for knowledge, my strong work ethic, and my active listening skills. I look forward to working with mentors to train me further as a diagnostic radiologist. I actively listen to my patients, mentors, and colleagues, which earns their respect and trust. I always arrive early to work and do tasks before I am told. I actively seek ways to help others and look forward to bringing these strengths to your program as a resident."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Diligence
11. How do you keep your knowledge current with the ongoing changes in this industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Since the 1990s, there has been a significant increase in the number of diagnostic imaging tools. Even though no new imaging techniques have recently been invented, the current ones are continuously evolving and improving. Focus on listing several ways to receive your industry knowledge and stay on top of trends. Tell the interviewer about those daily email updates you receive from professional organizations, conferences you attend, seminars you have taken, and professional organizations you are a part of. Lastly, asking the interviewers what resources they refer to for industry trends is a great idea. That question can start a great conversation, and you may learn a thing or two.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am an avid reader and like to stay current on changes in the industry by reading industry briefs and peer-reviewed articles. I also subscribe to the Journal of the American College of Radiology which informs readers of timely and pertinent topics affecting the industry. Additionally, I listen to a radiology podcast while driving or doing chores around the house. If I may ask, what resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes?"
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Diligence
12. What is our program's vision for our residents?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You should be prepared to answer any questions the interviewers have, such as the organization's mission statement, core values, directors, and vision for residents. The interviewers ask this question to see if you have researched the residency program before your interview. Show the interviewers you have done your homework by explaining the program's vision statement and how it resonates with you.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"Your vision and mission statement stuck with me when I was researching your program, which are two of the main reasons I chose your program. Your vision is to be a destination for those who seek excellence and continuous innovation in medical imaging. Your vision resonated with me because that is exactly what I seek in a diagnostic radiology residency."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Diligence
13. After researching our program, what electives interest you and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to understand what interests you and why. They want to see where you will succeed in the program and how they can help you along the way. They also want to see that you have done your research on the diagnostic radiology program and what is offered.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand residents cannot take electives until their 4th year through your residency program. The electives that interest me the most are thoracic and cardiac imaging, which is the fellowship I would like to pursue once I complete my residency. I am also interested in the 4-week radiology global health elective in Kenya. I spent a month in Kenya last year doing clinical rotations, and I fell in love with the people. So, I would be happy to be involved in doing ultrasounds and CTs in the hospital in Kijabe."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Direct
14. What makes you stand out from other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The overall competitiveness level of diagnostic radiology is medium for a U.S. senior. The probability of matching is 55% with a Step 1 score of 200, while the likelihood of matching increases to 90% with a score greater than 240. The interviewers want to hear why they should choose you over others competing to match. While there are many qualified candidates, you must let the interviewers know why you are a top-notch applicant. Tell the interviewers about your away rotations, research experience, volunteer work, USMLE scores, and any other achievements or accolades that will make the interviewers remember you.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"You should choose me over applicants because of my dedication, research experience, and leadership skills. I applied for an away rotation with your program and demonstrated my work ethic to house staff and my attending physician. They saw my attention to detail and communication skills and highly recommended that I be accepted into your program. I have clinical research experience and published a peer-reviewed article on what radiologists need to know about parotid masses. Also, I have demonstrated my leadership skills as an AMA medical student outreach leader and student member of the AMA Foundation Board. I am excited about this opportunity and hope to match with your wonderful residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Direct
15. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Everyone has areas in their professional life they would like to improve. The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewers may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent diagnostic radiologist.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness has been remembering people's names when I first meet them. I understand it is a weakness in this profession because I need to remember my mentors', colleagues', and patients' names. I recently bought a book called 'How to Remember Names and Faces' by Luis Echeverria. He is a Memory Master Champion and guarantees success by reading his book and practicing memory training exercises. I have been reading the book for a week and have already found I remember people's names and faces better. I am confident this weakness will become a strength when I finish the book and the exercises."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Direct
16. Tell us about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will often ask this question first to break the ice and start the conversation. Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer about yourself, demonstrating essential skills and characteristics that are valuable in the position you are interviewing for.
Taking the past, present, and future approach in your response is recommended. You want to mention how you started down this career path, what steps you have taken to get to where you are now, and what your future goals are. Be sure to highlight any promotions or achievements you are proud of and any other work-related accomplishments. You can mention extracurricular activities you are interested in, family life, or volunteer work if it ties in with the qualities needed for the residency, showing you are a responsible and dedicated individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am an avid surfer and have traveled to eight countries in the last eight years to compete in various events. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. In between my training, I completed medical school at the Yale School of Medicine and recently completed my internship. My biggest goal is to get matched with your program to complete my residency. I then look forward to doing a cardiothoracic imaging fellowship before working at a teaching hospital."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
17. Describe a time when you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a healthcare professional, you may sometimes be asked to do unethical things. The interviewers ask this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. They want to hear that you have morals and can be trusted in your position. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something, or someone asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested during my second year of medical school. A classmate asked me to help him cheat on a test because he had not had time to study. Even though we were friends, I told him I could not ethically help him cheat and that, as physicians, we are held to a higher standard. After that, I found it very hard to be friends with him since I do not condone that type of behavior."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
18. What is the most recent work of fiction you have read?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical students are not expected only to read medical books, and the interviewers understand this. They want to see if you are the type of person to read for pleasure, and if so, what interests you. If you do not enjoy reading during your downtime, describe other ways you stimulate your mind, such as listening to podcasts. Also, be sure if you have read a work of fiction recently, that it is not something that would offend or embarrass the interviewers. If you enjoy reading, describe the most recent work of fiction you have read and give a brief synopsis.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently reading a fictional book called The Water Keeper by Charles Martin. He is one of my favorite authors because he has such a way with words. The book is about a man who lives alone on an island and has dedicated his life to rescuing people who have been trafficked. He makes friends with quite some characters, who end up working together to end modern-day slavery. All of Charles Martin's books have a hero or heroine who put their lives before others, which I find fascinating."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
19. Tell me about an organization or group you have contributed to outside of work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many interviewers will choose one applicant over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make a great physician. Talk to the interviewers about your willingness to give back to your community through volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or neighbors.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I started volunteering when I was 16 years old as a candy striper at Cottage Hospital in Southern California. After graduating high school, the candy striper program was dissolved, so I started volunteering with the Special Olympics as a coach. I still volunteer as a coach and work once a week at a local assisted living facility reading stories to the residents."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
20. Why are you pursuing a career in diagnostic radiology?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspires and motivates you to pursue this career. They want to hear if another diagnostic radiologist mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from a diagnostic radiologist.
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewers want to gain insight into what made you pursue this career path to see if you will be a good fit for their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm pursuing a career in diagnostic radiology because I love technology and wanted to work in the healthcare field. My parents are physicians, so I knew I wanted to follow in their footsteps from a young age. When attending medical school, I decided on diagnostic radiology because I am fascinated with how radiology can identify problems and monitor how the patient's body responds to treatment. Radiology plays an enormous role in disease management by giving physicians more tools, techniques, and options than other healthcare fields. I am happy to be a part of helping save lives with early diagnosis and treatment."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
21. Tell us something unique about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While you cannot share everything about your personal life and accomplishments on your CV, there must be something you are proud of that you would like to share. If possible, share something about yourself that shows the interviewers you would be a good fit for the residency program. For example, if you share that you compete in triathlons, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for residents to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"Something I am proud of that is not on my resume is that I have a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I am proud of this accomplishment because it took me ten years of hard work and dedication to receive my belt. I enjoy keeping in shape and knowing how to defend myself in a non-violent manner. For the last two years, I have competed in the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Brazil and won second and third place in my weight class."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Discovery
22. What are your hobbies and interests outside of work and school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality and see that you have a healthy work/life balance. It is best to mention hobbies that showcase your strengths, skills, and passion that can transfer to your job as a diagnostic radiologist. For example, if one of your hobbies is volunteering at the local food bank, it shows the interviewers that you enjoy helping people and are empathetic and compassionate. Mention several hobbies and why you enjoy them while avoiding interests that could be construed as unprofessional.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have many interests and hobbies. I enjoy volunteering, coaching my son's soccer team, playing guitar, and mountain biking. I volunteer with my family every Sunday at our local church's food bank and coach soccer three times a week. I recently took up guitar, so I enjoy practicing when I have downtime. I mountain bike every morning before work to stay in shape and clear my head for the day."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Problem Solving
23. Have you ever suffered a setback or failure? If so, how did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers realize that no one is perfect. They ask this question to determine if you are self-aware and can acknowledge a setback or failure. The interviewers also want to hear how you responded to the setback or failure and what you did to resolve it. Give an example of a setback or failure while spending more time on the resolution rather than the setback. Using the STAR format is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain what you were supposed to do, what went wrong, and the result.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I did suffer a setback while obtaining my bachelor's degree. I thought I had an important assignment due on the 15th of the month, but it was due on the 5th. My professor asked everyone to turn in their assignments on the 5th, and I had yet to start mine because I thought it was due on the 15th. I failed the course and had to retake it the following semester. I learned I needed to pay more attention to detail, and I started using a calendar to input all of my assignment's due dates. I never missed a due date after that, and I still use the calendar for any assignments or tasks I need to accomplish."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Role-Specific
24. How would you describe a day in the life of a diagnostic radiology resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some programs describe what a resident's day looks like on their website. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand what your daily life will look like as a diagnostic radiology resident. If the program you applied to does not have that information, speak with former or current students or visit the university or medical center and talk to staff. You should understand what your day entails before starting the program, so there are no surprises.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"After speaking with a former resident of your program, I have a good understanding of the daily life of a resident. After the morning case conference, I will spend four hours in clinical service. I will review X-rays, CTs, and MRIs of the brain, neck, and spine. Then, I will attend the noon conference with my fellow residents, where we will eat lunch and discuss our day. After the noon conference, I will return to clinical service for four hours, interpreting ordered studies. Once a week, I will be on call on the swing shift, dictating ordered studies for in-hospital patients and patients in the Emergency Department."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Situational
25. How would you handle a dispute with a colleague?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to dispute or disagree with someone they work with. The interviewers know this and want to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewers insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in any profession.
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a colleague. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewers want to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. When both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely, it seems less conflict will happen in the future. Most disputes are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Stress
26. What part of medical school was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical school is intense, fast-paced, and stressful. The interviewers want to hear what part of medical school was most stressful to determine what aspects of the residency program may be challenging. They also want to hear how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I cannot name one thing that was the most stressful, as each year had new stressors. The most stressful part of my first year was getting used to the fast-paced environment and learning large amounts of information in a short amount of time. The board exams made my second year stressful, and my third year was getting close to applying for residency. By my fourth year, I had learned to manage my stress by staying focused and organized. I developed a great study system and used my downtime to exercise and rest. After attending medical school, I know I am ready for whatever stress I might experience in my residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Stress
27. How well do you work in stressful situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Burnout among radiology residents is among the highest compared to other medical specialties, with 85% feeling emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and decreased feelings of personal accomplishment. Many factors contribute to burnout from the added stress of continuous and long clinical shifts, demanding call schedules, lack of social interaction, and technical issues. The interviewers want to hear that you will be successful at managing your stress and will have the ability to stay calm and professional in stressful situations. Describe when you have worked in stressful situations and how you manage your stress.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I work very well under pressure. I can always remain calm and professional when faced with stressful situations. I find the best thing to do when there is a lot of pressure at work is to stay organized. I create a list, prioritize the most urgent assignments, and delegate work where I can. If I stay focused and know exactly what needs to be done, work stressors do not affect me."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Teamwork
28. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a diagnostic radiology resident, it is essential that you are a team player and can work well with others. Healthcare takes a multi-disciplinary approach to treating patients, and the interviewers want to see that you collaborate well with others. Give an example of when you have worked on a team and how you enjoy being a team player.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy working with others and do so very well. I like taking a team approach to healthcare and involving family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to develop the best treatment plan for each patient. I believe a team approach accomplishes greater things than working alone, as we can all learn from each other's experiences."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Technical
29. What is your favorite diagnostic imaging tool you have used, and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are many diagnostic imaging tools, such as X-rays, CT scans, nuclear medicine scans, ultrasounds, and MRI scans. The interviewers ask this question to see what tool is your favorite to gain insight into your preferences regarding diagnostic imaging. There is no wrong answer, but remember to explain why you prefer that imaging tool over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"My favorite diagnostic imaging tool I have used is the CT scan. I like CT because I can quickly identify injuries or diseases to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, spleen, and other internal organs. This versatile tool can also guide biopsies and other procedures, such as minimally invasive tumor treatments and abscess drainages."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Tough
30. Which aspect of radiology does not appeal to you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A 2020 study reports that approximately 93% of radiologists are happy with their career choice and would choose the specialty again. But, as in any profession, some aspects of the job are not appealing. The interviewers want to hear what part of radiology is not appealing to determine how they can help you succeed as a diagnostic radiology resident. Here are some examples of what is unappealing about radiology:
- Long hours on your feet
- Having to deliver bad news to a patient
- Long hours sitting looking at images
- Working the night shift
- Being on call
After describing your least favorite part of the job, turn your response into a positive one by explaining how you deal with it.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"The least appealing part of radiology is delivering bad news to patients. Before I take their images, I get to know my patients as a person, so it feels more personal when I have to deliver heartbreaking news. But, I understand this is part of the job as a physician, and I work through it by remembering that without the scans, the patient would not know there was anything wrong and could die without treatment."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 29th, 2022