Internal Medicine Residency Mock Interview
Prepare for 40 Internal Medicine Residency interview questions covering clinical reasoning, patient care philosophy, and program fit.
Question 13 of 40
What is the biggest challenge you faced in medical school?
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Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
There are many challenges when coming into a program as a new Internal Medicine Resident, from learning new faces to taking on patients for the first time. Your interviewers need confirmation that you can face challenges head-on, embrace them, and learn from them throughout your time with their program.
Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
"The biggest challenge I faced was the hospitalization of my sister following a traumatic event. I was, fortunately, able to get some time off from medical school to visit her in the hospital. During this time, my parents and brother were a great support system. We were also fortunate to have nurses and doctors who provided us with regular updates on her status and expressed empathy for her situation. From this event, I realized how important my family is to me and why I want to live close to home for my residency."
Ryan Brunner has over ten years of experience recruiting, interviewing, and hiring candidates in the healthcare, public service, and private manufacturing/distribution industries.
Pick a challenge that is commonly faced by medical students rather than focusing on a potential deficit in your ability to perform as a resident. You can also pick something unique to you that is not the result of your actions (e.g., a family member passing away). Then, explain how you took steps to manage this challenge and prepare for similar challenges in the future.
"One challenge I faced was being away from family. I made a point of calling and emailing them often to stay in touch."
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Anonymous Answer
I developed an addiction to stimulants (prescribed to manage ADHD during my third year of medical school). I postponed graduation and residency during this time while unsuccessfully attempting to gain sobriety. I returned to school and continued rotations and graduated in 2018, two years after my originally-anticipated graduation date. I entered the workforce after graduation to support myself and my family. I got proper medical treatment shortly thereafter. After finding and maintaining a sense of stability (I went through a divorce and custody battle at this time). I was able to successfully pass Step 2 CK, and Step 3, and I am fully equipped to complete my residency and finish my journey to becoming a physician.
Marcie's Feedback
Wow! Your story is a powerful one. Don't feel obligated to include details about your divorce and custody battle unless you want to (this really isn't any of the interviewer's business). However, discussing how you managed to overcome an addiction is impactful because it's so hard to do and you did it! Remind the interviewer of your persistence, resilience, and intense desire to become a physician (so much so that you never let these obstacles derail your dream). The more details, the better! Excellent job!
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