How will you handle working under very close supervision as an oral surgery resident with our program?
In asking this question, your interviewers want to know that you will always be open-minded to the faculty and senior residents who will mentor you in their program. Remember, the term 'close supervision' as an oral surgery resident means that you will be working very closely under the supervision of the faculty of this program. Your interviewing team needs to know that you will be able to work well and learn under the supervision of their staff.
"I look forward to being trained, mentored, and supervised by the world-class staff here at your institution. During my dental school training, I took this same mindset and loved being able to learn by watching and then doing. Of course, I made some mistakes along the way. But it was a great opportunity to learn from experts and take their feedback to heart. As a resident in your program, I would always take this same mindset about being mentored and trained."
If possible, give an example of a time you worked closely with a boss, professor, or faculty member of your dental school. Talk about the importance of being mentored and groomed as a new oral surgery resident, and explain that you are willing and ready to be in this environment. If needed, finish your reply by asking what the resident/faculty relationship is like at the institution you are interviewing.
