"I am most often challenged by staff who are poor communicators. Communication lines should always be open between residents, faculty, and the care team. If someone on my team doesn't communicate properly during my Internal Medicine residency, I would respectfully approach them to explain what I need from them. If the problem persisted, I would take it up the proper chain of command."

Pick a quality that doesn't reflect poorly on you. Talking about demanding personalities may make you seem lazy or unable to work with demanding faculty in the program. Instead, choose a quality that impairs the ability of even the most competent and hard-working doctors from delivering high-quality care or working as part of a high-functioning team.

"I sometimes find it challenging to work with people who are not team players. When this happens, I try to make them feel included so they feel comfortable participating as a team member. If I'm fortunate enough to come train here as an ID fellow, I will take this same team-oriented approach."