30 Neurology Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Neurology Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Capability Questions
- 5. Career Goals Questions
- 6. Communication Questions
- 7. Compatibility Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Education Questions
- 12. Entry Level Questions
- 13. Leadership Questions
- 14. Stress Questions
- 15. Teamwork Questions
- 16. Tough Questions
Accomplishment
1. What has been your greatest achievement on your path to becoming a neurologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments on your path to becoming a neurologist. Talking about your most significant achievement will give the interviewers an idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewers more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest achievement so far has been scoring a near-perfect score of 524 on the MCAT exam. I prepared for a long time for the exam by hiring a tutor and attending prep courses. My goal was to receive a score of at least 513, so I was very excited when I received my score. It showed me that hard work and dedication pay off."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Ask The Interviewer
2. Do you have any questions about our 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 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What would my first week look like if accepted into the program, and do you have any tips to help me succeed as a resident?"
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Behavioral
3. When have you ever 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 if accepted into the program.
Focus on providing an example of when you had your ethics tested during your medical training. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something or having someone ask you to falsify a patient record.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"During medical school, I witnessed a classmate cheating on an exam. We were good friends, and it upset me that she would do something like that. I approached her after the exam and asked why she was cheating. She told me that she was unprepared for the exam because she had been up all night and that cheating was the only way to get a good grade. I asked her to tell the professor and explain what she had done since physicians are held to a higher standard and what she did was not ethical. She ended up telling the professor and was asked to retake the exam. After that, we did not remain friends, as I cannot trust anyone who is dishonest."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Capability
4. What is your least favorite part of neurology as a specialty?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what you like least about your chosen profession and where you may have challenges if accepted into the residency program. You want to make sure you describe your least favorite part as something the interviewers can identify with, showing you are only human. Some examples could be your least favorite part is losing a patient, having to deliver bad news to a patient and their loved ones, or having a patient refuse life-saving treatment. After describing what you like least, end on a positive note by explaining how you work through this challenge.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"My least favorite part of neurology is probably the same as in any specialty, which is when I have to deliver bad news to a patient and their family. It is hard to see the looks of disbelief and watch the emotions they encounter. Even though it's my least favorite part, I do my best to provide support and comfort, and I still would not choose any other profession than this one."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Career Goals
5. What are your career goals after completing the residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most neurology residents (74%) pursue a fellowship after residency, 19% enter a neurology practice, and 5% proceed directly into an academic position. 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 enter a neurology practice or work in a teaching capacity. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"After completing the residency program, my goal is to work as a neurologist at my father's private practice. He has been a neurologist for twenty years and has always dreamed of working alongside me. My father wants to retire in another five years and have me take over his practice, which has been my career goal since I started medical school."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Communication
6. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see that you have the strong verbal and written communication skills required for neurology residents. Your job duties will include speaking to your mentor, managers, coworkers, and the public. You will also be responsible for written communications when writing reports and communicating by email. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would describe my communication skills as above average. I work very hard to ensure I speak to my patients in terms they can understand. Medical terminology can be quite confusing for those not in the medical field. After explaining something to a patient or family member, I have them repeat what I said to ensure they are clear on what I told them. I ask them if they have questions, I actively listen, and I am great at reading body language. My written communication skills are exceptional, as well."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Compatibility
7. How do you keep your emotions from affecting your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in healthcare can be emotional at times. It is normal to feel emotions when working as a healthcare professional, but it is imperative to channel those emotions, so they do not interfere with your work. Taking good care of your mental and physical health helps channel those emotions, so you can maintain composure when facing work challenges. Let the interviewers know how you remain professional when faced with an emotional workday.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"It is hard not to feel emotional when losing a patient or having to deliver bad news, but I knew it was part of the job going in. I keep my emotions from affecting my work by talking with my colleagues or mentor if something is bothering me and by taking care of myself away from work. I like to run, which helps clear my mind when feeling emotional. I also think of the good things about a patient I have lost or who is diagnosed with a life-changing condition and do not focus on the sad part."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Compatibility
8. What qualities make an excellent neurologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent neurologist, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Excellent neurologists are patient, compassionate, curious, empathetic, and dedicated. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional analytical thinking and communication skills. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that will help you succeed in this field and make you an excellent neurologist.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent neurologist. You must be compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, neurologists must take the time to listen to their patients while providing compassionate care. Excellent neurologists also have analytical and critical-thinking skills, which help diagnose and treat highly complex neurologic and nervous system disorders. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed as a neurologist."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Compatibility
9. How would you describe your bedside manner?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the qualities they seek in a resident. Bedside manner is a physician's approach or attitude toward a patient. The interviewers 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 20th, 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 20th, 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 neurology residency program. Some strengths that will make you stand out as a candidate include the following:
- Strong work ethic
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Diligence
After listing your three strengths, give examples of how they will help you succeed as a resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 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 neurologist. 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 20th, 2022
Compatibility
11. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see if you consider yourself compassionate since neurologists value helping others improve their health and well-being and care deeply about those they serve. The interviewers want to accept like-minded residents, so they will ask you if you are compassionate to determine if you will be a good fit for their program.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I most certainly consider myself a compassionate person. I take the opportunity to understand and help others whenever possible. While attending University, I spent a lot of time volunteering at a local hospice - not only for the added experience but also to give back to others. I would comfort patients and their family members during the patient's last moments, brush their hair, hold their hands, and read and sing to them. I look forward to continuing this level of compassionate care throughout my career."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Compatibility
12. What weakness would you like to improve while in our program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness as a future neurologist 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 interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent neurologist.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness as a student 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 patients' and coworkers' 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 already found I better remember people's names and faces. I am confident this weakness will become a strength when I finish the book and the exercises."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Diligence
13. What made you choose our residency program over others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear that you have researched their program in depth and that you have also compared their program to others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their neurology residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, professional growth and advancement opportunity, or because they are a teaching hospital.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, my mentor was a resident in your neurology 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. After researching your program in greater depth, I decided this is the program I want to attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Diligence
14. In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the neurology field will face in the next few years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Leaders in neurology are reflecting on how the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the medical community, research, and interpersonal relationships between colleagues. The interviewers want to see that you are forward-thinking and have identified these challenges in the field of neurology. As this question asks your opinion, there is no wrong answer. However, if you have no response to what challenges you will face as a neurologist, the interviewers will determine that you haven't put much thought into the future. It is also recommended to ask the interviewers what they think the most significant challenges will be. It shows you are interested in hearing what they have to say and value their experience.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"The greatest challenge in the field of neurology in the next few years is what we currently face. We have many medications to treat neurological disorders, but nothing to stop the disease process. More studies need to be done to understand why patients develop certain neurological diseases and what can be done to stop the disease process from happening in the first place. If you don't mind me asking, what do you feel are the greatest challenges facing the field of neurology?"
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Direct
15. We have many qualified candidates applying to our program. Why should we choose you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Neurology is not often ranked among the most competitive residencies, with applicants having an almost 90% chance of matching to a program if they meet the requirements. However, the interviewers ask this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the neurology program and how you will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing the interviewer you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the residency position because I meet your admission requirements and am active on campus and in the community. I have strong analytical and leadership skills and work well under pressure. I also have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and thirst for knowledge to your wonderful residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Direct
16. How would you approach a patient that refused care based on their religious beliefs, even if you knew their decision could cause them to die?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you accept a patient's right to refuse care for any reason, including their religious beliefs. If a patient is of sound mind, they can refuse care, even if you disagree with their decision. The interviewers want to hear that you would ensure the patient was informed they could die if they refused care and that you honor their decision even if it is difficult for you to accept.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that it might be difficult to accept, but I would need to honor my patient's wishes if they refuse care for any reason. I would inform them of all the possibilities care could provide and that refusing care could cause death. I would also offer them to get a second or third opinion if they choose. Once the patient is fully informed, I would have them sign an against medical advice form following my hospital's protocols."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
17. How would your references describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear that your references will positively describe you. Think about the constructive things your references have said about you in the past. Be complimentary of yourself - now is not the time to be super humble.
If you have past performance reviews or letters of recommendation from your references, review them before your interview. You will be better prepared to answer the question if what they wrote is fresh in your mind. It is also good to have copies for the interviewers if they would like a copy for their files.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have an excellent list of references who will say that I am a hard worker who always brings a positive, compassionate attitude to the workplace. I have a strong work ethic and moral compass and seek opportunities to help others. I have three copies of performance reviews and letters of recommendation for your file if you would like them."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
18. Do you have plans to pursue a neurology fellowship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most aspiring neurologists (74%) pursue a neurology fellowship after completing their residency. The interviewers are curious about your career goals to see if you will be in the 74 percentile. They want to see what 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 just want to get to know your future goals a little better.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have plans to pursue a neurology fellowship. I recognize the need for sub-specialty neurology training, with the burden of neurological disorders sharply rising. I am interested in learning more about Alzheimer's disease since that is one of the disorders that has risen dramatically over the years, and my grandmother died from the disease, so I am especially interested in learning more."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
19. Tell us about your involvement in the community.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many interviewers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make an excellent resident. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of 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 even your current employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 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 20th, 2022
Discovery
20. After researching our program, what electives interest you and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some common electives in neurology residency programs include autonomic disorders, neuroscience research, epilepsy, dementia, and concussion research. 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 know that you have done your research on the program and what is offered.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am most interested in working with patients who have had a stroke, the electives I found most interesting are cognitive disorders, rehabilitation medicine, outpatient stroke, and palliative care. These electives will give me a broad understanding of working with stroke patients and how to help rehabilitate them."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
21. How do you like to spend your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from school destressing from the pressures of being a medical student. Generally, you will not have much free time as a medical student, and the interviewers understand that. But, they still like to hear that you make time for yourself.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a student for the past eight years, I do not have much free time. But when I do, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are riding dirt bikes, trail running, and rock climbing. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy working on projects around my house, cooking, and reading true-crime novels."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
22. Tell us something about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers would like to learn more about you as a person. 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 bodybuilding competitions, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for residents to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
23. Have you considered other specialties for your residency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interview panel asks this question to see if there are other medical specialties you have considered. Your response will show them what interests you and where your strengths lie. There is no wrong answer, but you want to assure the interviewers that neurology is your number one choice.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I have not considered other specialties for my residency. I thought when I entered medical school that I wanted to work in emergency medicine, but after doing my rotations, I became more fascinated with neurology and chose this career path."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Discovery
24. Why are you pursuing a career as a neurologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Neurology is an exciting and fast-growing field that translates skills in technology, science, engineering, and medicine into real-life solutions that help humanity. 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 neurologist mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from a neurologist.
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 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to pursue a career in neurology after my mother had a stroke when I was ten years old. I witnessed what she went through to recover from the stroke and went to her doctor's visits with her. I was impressed with her neurologist and what a kind and knowledgeable doctor she was. I became fascinated with learning all I could about the brain and decided to become a doctor like her and help other patients diagnosed with neurology disorders."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Education
25. Tell us about your training that qualifies you to enter our residency program.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If you have made it to the interview, you must have met the requirements to apply to the neurology residency program. The interviewers would like you to describe the steps you have taken to meet their requirements. Be sure to mention where you received your postgraduate and graduate education and how it has prepared you for their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I received my Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences from the University of California San Francisco and then attended medical school at Stanford University after sitting for the Medical College Admissions Test. I obtained my Doctor of Medicine degree and completed my rotations, which is where I gravitated toward neurology. I recently completed my one-year internship and am prepared and qualified to advance in the neurology residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Entry Level
26. What do you feel the day in the life of a neurology resident looks like?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand what your daily life will look like as a neurology resident. Some programs describe what a resident's day looks like on their website. 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 20th, 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 staff meeting, I will be assigned between 5-8 patients. I will review their charts, perform rounds on my patients, and develop daily plans with a senior resident. The afternoons are typically spent ordering tests, writing notes, and performing procedures. If I am on call, I will take the consult pager at 3:00 pm and see consults until 7:00 pm."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Leadership
27. Describe how you demonstrate leadership qualities even when not in a leadership position.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work or school! Give an example of how you coached a coworker who had difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. Or, you might have tutored a classmate who was having difficulty in a particular subject. Focus on providing an example that shows you act as a leader even when not in a leadership role.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I demonstrate leadership qualities even when not in a leadership position by setting a good example. I feel a true leader leads by example and will step in to coach and mentor others. For example, I had a classmate struggling to understand a particular subject, and the professor could not explain it in a way my classmate understood. I spent a weekend explaining the subject in a different manner, and my classmate finally got it. I enjoy being a leader and someone others look up to."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Stress
28. What part of your healthcare career brings you the most stress?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Stress in the healthcare industry can often be a regular part of the day-to-day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about the most stressful aspects of your career. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (i.e., a neurologist should not find caring for sick people the most stressful part of the job).
While you want to mention what part of your career brings you the most stress, you don't want to dwell on it. Instead, you should mention the stressful part and then talk about how you reduce it, so it does not consume you. If healthcare professionals do not have healthy ways to destress, it can lead to illness, injury, and job burnout.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when my patients do not adhere to taking their medications or following their treatment plan. If they followed my recommendations, they could live a fuller, healthier life. What I have done to decrease my stress levels in this situation is to do all I can to explain why they have a treatment plan and how following it will get them better results. I communicate clearly and concisely so there is no misunderstanding. I leave it to my patients to do what they feel is best for them."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Teamwork
29. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a resident, you must work well with others and be a team player. You will be a critical member of the healthcare team, and the interviewers want to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups. Describe how you collaborate with others, and explain why you enjoy being part of a team.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 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 20th, 2022
Tough
30. We require a pre-employment drug screen on all applicants. Is there anything you would like to discuss at this time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Drug testing of neurology residency applicants is recommended to increase protection for the public, but not all residency programs require a drug screen. If the interviewers ask this question, they are advising you of their pre-employment drug screen and ask if you'll pass, so they can decide if they want to continue with you in the interview process. Residency programs invest a lot of money in hiring residents, and they want to avoid sending you for a drug test if you will not pass.
As with any interview question, you want to focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test, you must inform the interviewers now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue, ensure the interviewer that you will pass the test because you do not use drugs.
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, not at all. I never have and will never use any drug. I have seen too many people's lives ruined by drug addiction, and it was never a path I wanted to take."
Written by Krista Wenz on November 20th, 2022