The interviewers ask this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress from the pressure of being a medical student. They want to know that you have a healthy work/life balance and that you do not only study in your free time. While that may seem like a good answer, medical students need time away from work and their studies to care for their mental and physical health and prevent burnout and illness.

Since you are applying for a residency, you want to put your best foot forward. You want to avoid describing interests that may seem unprofessional or unhealthy to the interviewers. Some examples of what to avoid are saying you enjoy spending your free time lying around watching movies, playing video games, or going clubbing with your friends. While those activities are harmless and a great way to unwind, the interviewers may view them as unhealthy or unprofessional for an ophthalmology resident.