Outside of medicine, what are your interests and hobbies?
The life of a physician is demanding, so your interviewers want to know how you plan to maintain a healthy work/life balance during your time with them. Having hobbies and interests outside of your professional life is key to this balance.
"I have several hobbies that keep me busy when I'm not working. I currently volunteer at the local animal shelter. I also play in indoor and outdoor soccer leagues and like to read autobiographies--I just finished Margaret Atwood's! During the fellowship, staying active outside of training will be a priority so I can stay healthy in both body and mind."
Don't hold back when answering this question! Discuss how your hobbies and interests will be important in your life as a fellow in their program to keep you happy, healthy, and refreshed during your training. Keep in mind that this question will also allow some insight into who you are as a person and how you will mesh with the faculty and other trainees in this fellowship program.
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 am a trained Indian classical dancer, and during my spare time, I love to choreograph new dance items. I also enjoy playing chess and spending time practicing my skills by playing online bullet games.
Marcie's Feedback
Wow! Those are really interesting hobbies. Can you connect them in any way to the fellowship? What have you learned from dance (e.g., creativity) and playing chess (e.g., patience, strategic thinking) that will benefit you in this new role?
