How to Answer: If attending medical school was hypothetically not an option for you, what career path would you have chosen outside of medicine?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Medical School job interview.
21. If attending medical school was hypothetically not an option for you, what career path would you have chosen outside of medicine?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your medical school interviewers want to get to know each candidate better during their interview process. This hypothetical question will give the interviewers some insight into other topics that interest you outside the medical field.
Written by Rachelle Enns
How to Answer
There is no right or wrong answer, but be sure to think about questions like this before your medical school interviews. Talk openly and honestly with your interviewers about where your career path would have ideally taken you if becoming a physician wasn't an option.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 29th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"If medicine wasn't an option for me, I likely would have pursued a music career. I grew up playing the piano and mastered every brass instrument during marching band in college. I am also a huge music buff and love listening to any genre. I could see myself teaching band in high school, performing in a jazz band, or even producing albums if a career in medicine were not an option for me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"If medical school was not an option, I would pursue a career in music. I was a member of the art club throughout high school and sang in my undergraduate chorale for four years. I have also played the piano since kindergarten. My dream job outside of medicine would be to become a concert pianist."
Written by Dr. Rodman on December 11th, 2022