30 Orthopedic Surgery Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Orthopedic Surgery Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 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. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. Conflict Questions
- 8. Critical Thinking Questions
- 9. Diligence Questions
- 10. Direct Questions
- 11. Discovery Questions
- 12. Education Questions
- 13. Operational Questions
- 14. Stress Questions
- 15. Teamwork Questions
- 16. Tough Questions
Accomplishment
1. What has been your most outstanding achievement on your path to becoming an orthopedic surgeon?
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 an orthopedic surgeon. 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 December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest achievement so far was completing medical school with a newly adopted child. My sister died when I was in my second year of medical school, and she left behind my three-month-old niece. There was no one else to take care of her, and she would have gone into foster care. I underwent the adoption process and was allowed to adopt her six months later. I completed medical school despite the challenge of having a young child, and I feel it made me stronger and more responsible."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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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 how the interviewers perceive their program compared to others, what feedback they have received from graduates, the program's strengths, if they offer community service programs during residency, and if any changes are anticipated in the program in the next five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website and speaking with many of your fellows and residents, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What type of practices are most of your graduates going into after their residency? What type of feedback are you receiving from your graduates? Finally, do you anticipate any changes in the program in the next five years?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Have you ever suffered a setback or failure? If so, how did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers realize that no one is perfect. They ask this question to determine if you are self-aware and can acknowledge a setback or failure. The interviewers also want to hear how you responded to the setback or failure and what you did to resolve it. Give an example of a setback or failure while spending more time on the resolution rather than the setback. Using the STAR format is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain what you were supposed to do, what went wrong, and the result.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I suffered a setback during my third year of medical school. My mother became ill with cancer, and there was no other family to care for her when she went through chemotherapy. I contacted the Dean and asked for an extended leave of absence, which he granted due to the circumstances. I took a year off to care for my mother, which set me back a year. But I would do it all over again as that was the last year I spent with my mother before she died."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Career Goals
4. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will most likely be asked several versions of this question during your interview, such as your plans after your residency or where you see yourself in five years. With this question, the interviewers want to hear about your long-term goals. Since this question can only be answered by you, explain where you professionally see yourself in ten years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"In ten years, I see myself working as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Boston's Children's Hospital. I am originally from Boston and have always wanted to work for Boston Children's Hospital. Most of my family still lives in Boston, so it will be nice to be closer to them after so many years away attending medical school."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Career Goals
5. Do you have plans to pursue an orthopedic surgery fellowship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Larner College of Medicine reports that over 90% of graduating orthopedic residents pursue fellowship training after completing their residency. The interviewers are curious about your career goals after you complete their program. They want to see what subspecialty interests you and why you chose to pursue a fellowship. There is no wrong answer, and this is not a trick question. The interviewers want to get to know your future goals a little better.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I will pursue a spine surgery fellowship after completing my residency. I want to work with pediatric and adult spinal disorders, and a fellowship will offer me more extensive clinical exposure. I look forward to working with patients with less pain and a better quality of life after they have worked with me."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Compatibility
6. What qualities make an excellent orthopedic surgeon?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent orthopedic surgeon, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Excellent orthopedic surgeons are patient, personable, compassionate, curious, empathetic, and dedicated. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional mechanical and communication skills. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that will help you succeed in this field and make you an excellent orthopedic surgeon.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent orthopedic surgeon. You must have an excellent bedside manner and be compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, orthopedic surgeons must take the time to listen to their patients while providing compassionate care. Excellent orthopedic surgeons must also have mechanical and critical-thinking skills and exceptional hand-eye coordination. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed as an orthopedic surgeon."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Competency
7. What instructions would you give to a patient after having a total knee replacement?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an orthopedic surgeon, you will give your patients instructions after surgery so they can have the best possible outcome. The interviewers want to see what instructions you would give to a patient after total knee replacement surgery to see if your instructions align with the proper recommendations orthopedic surgeons give.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"After performing a total knee replacement surgery, I would instruct my patient to use a cane or walker the first few months after surgery, perform knee range-of-motion exercises, apply cold therapy to the knee, and compress the knee at the surgical site with a bandage or compression-type stocking. I would advise my patient that they may return to work one-month post-op if they work at a desk, but it will be longer if they work on their feet. I would also send my patient to physical therapy for six weeks and have a follow-up visit scheduled for three months post-surgery."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Competency
8. Who is one of the fathers of modern orthopedic surgery?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A Pub Med abstract names Robert Jones as one of the fathers of modern orthopedic surgery. Robert Jones organized and revolutionized the treatment and management of war wounds in World War I and established specialized military orthopedic hospitals for the care and rehabilitation of wounded soldiers. Another father of orthopedic surgery is Robert Jones' uncle Hugh Owen Thomas. Hugh was a descendant of a line of bone setters and placed great importance on rest in treating fractures. The interviewers ask this question as they expect every orthopedic surgery candidate to know these men. Describe in your own words how Robert Jones or Hugh Owen Thomas is one of the fathers of modern orthopedic surgery and how they earned that title.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"One of the fathers of modern orthopedic surgery is Hugh Owen Thomas. Mr. Thomas was responsible for creating the Thomas splint, which was widely used during World War I. The use of the Thomas splint reduced the soldier's mortality from 80% to just 8% by the end of the war."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Competency
9. What is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The Orthopedic Clinic lists 10 of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the United States, such as ACL reconstruction surgery, knee replacement surgery, shoulder replacement surgery, and hip replacement surgery, as the top four. The interviewers want to hear that you are diligent and have researched the most common types of surgeries you will perform as an orthopedic surgeon.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I recently read an article by Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine that said total knee replacements are the number one orthopedic surgeries performed. I knew that was one of the most common orthopedic surgeries, but I was astonished to read that over 645,000 people per year in the United States have the surgery."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Conflict
10. How do you handle conflict with a colleague?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for colleagues to dispute or disagree with someone they work with. The interviewers know this and want to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in any profession.
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a colleague. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewers want to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. When both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely, less conflict will likely happen in the future. Most conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication. I also handle any disputes or disagreements privately and not in front of others, as it shows poor taste to air your grievances with others around."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Critical Thinking
11. In your opinion, what are some challenges to working as an orthopedic surgeon?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some challenges orthopedic surgeons face are ongoing changes in medicine, keeping up with advancing technology, loss of independence when working for a hospital, health insurance reimbursement issues, and staffing issues, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you are forward-thinking and have identified challenges you will face when working as an orthopedic surgeon.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Some challenges to working as an orthopedic surgeon are navigating the rapidly changing healthcare environment, increased regulatory oversight, and diminished reimbursement. I recently read an article that said another challenge facing the industry is a looming shortage of orthopedic surgeons, which will put more of a load on working orthopedic surgeons. However, I still believe working as an orthopedic surgeon has more pros than cons."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Diligence
12. How do you stay current with the ongoing advancements in orthopedic surgery?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a future orthopedic surgeon, staying current with the ongoing advancements in your industry is essential. There are many ways you can stay up-to-date with changes in your profession, such as continuing education, talking with colleagues, attending conferences, reading articles, listening to podcasts, and reading medical journals. The interviewers would like to hear that you are proactive and diligent in staying current with ongoing advancements. Describe your methods of staying up-to-date on the latest industry news.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I stay current with the ongoing advancements in orthopedic surgery in many ways. I subscribe to several medical blogs, such as modernizing medicine and advanced orthopedics, that deliver a message to my email when there is a new blog outlining the latest trends. I also read scholarly orthopedic articles, Becker's Spine Review, and listen to the Orthobullets Podcast every morning on my way to work. I have also attended three orthopedic conferences in the past three years that always has the latest on advancements in the field."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Diligence
13. After researching our program, what electives interest you and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 if you have looked over the program and what is offered.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am most interested in working with pediatric patients, the electives I find most interesting are pediatric orthopedic surgery and pediatric musculoskeletal surgical oncology. I feel each of those 4-week electives will give me an excellent start to my career as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Direct
14. Orthopedic surgery is one of the most competitive residencies to match. Why should we choose you over other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
An orthopedic surgery residency is a highly competitive residency to match to, with a match rate of 60%. The interviewers want to hear why they should choose you over others competing to match. While there are many qualified candidates, you must let the interviewers know why you are a top-notch applicant. Tell the interviewers about your away rotations, research experience, volunteer work, USMLE scores, and any other achievements or accolades that will make the interviewers remember you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"You should choose me over applicants because of my dedication, research experience, and leadership skills. I applied for an away rotation with your program and demonstrated my work ethic to house staff and my attending physician. They saw my attention to detail and communication skills and highly recommended that I be accepted into your program. I have clinical research experience and published a peer-reviewed article on treatments to enhance orthopedic surgical outcomes. Also, I have demonstrated my leadership skills as an AMA medical student outreach leader and student member of the AMA Foundation Board. I am excited about this opportunity and hope to match with your orthopedic surgery residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Direct
15. What is the most recent work of fiction you have read?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical students are not expected only to read medical books, and the interviewers understand this. They want to see if you are the type of person to read for pleasure, and if so, what interests you. If you do not enjoy reading during your downtime, describe other ways you stimulate your mind, such as listening to podcasts. Also, be sure if you have read a work of fiction recently, that it is not something that would offend or embarrass the interviewers. If you enjoy reading, describe the most recent work of fiction you have read and give a brief synopsis.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently reading a fictional book called A Case of Need by Michael Crichton. This is the author's debut award-winning novel, written shortly after he completed his medical internship. It's a riveting book based on a surgical operation that ended in death. Afterward, questions are raised if the death was due to accidental malpractice, a violation of the Hippocratic oath, or cold-blooded murder. I enjoy true-crime and murder mystery books and this one is particularly interesting because the author went to medical school and his writing is spot on."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Direct
16. What made you choose our residency program over others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, there are approximately 171 orthopedic surgery residency programs. The interviewers want to hear that you have researched their program in depth and that you have also compared their program to many others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, dynamic and interactive training program, or because they are a research hospital. Let the interviewers know your reasons for choosing their orthopedic surgery residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, my father was a resident in your orthopedic surgery residency 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. Since my father was a resident here, I always knew your program would be my first choice, and it is nice that other residents ranked your program as number one."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Discovery
17. Tell me about any organization or groups you have contributed to outside of work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Prospective Doctor reports that the average matched U.S. applicant for an orthopedic surgery residency had eight volunteer experiences. Many interviewers will choose one candidate over another based on the number of their volunteer experiences. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make a great resident and physician. Talk to the interviewers about your volunteer experience while briefly describing your role within the group or organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 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 at a local assisted living facility where my grandfather lives, playing the piano for the residents once a week. I also have volunteered with Doctors Without Borders, International Medical Corps, and Africa Health Placements providing medical services to communities in developing countries."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Discovery
18. Do you aspire to have your own practice one day? If so, what about business ownership interests you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A 2020 NIH abstract shows that the number of orthopedic surgeons in solo practices is a low 7.4%, with 1,595 orthopedic surgeons owning their practice. Most orthopedic surgeons work for other institutions rather than own their own practice due to the start-up costs of starting a business and the financial instability of running a business. The interviewers ask this question to understand your career goals and where you see yourself working after completing your residency and/or fellowship. If you do not plan to own your own business, explain why. If you would like to start a practice in the future, describe why business ownership appeals to you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not plan on having my own practice one day. While I consider myself an entrepreneur and love the idea of owning a business, the thought of starting a practice does not interest me. Working in a hospital or established surgical group is more appealing because I want to focus on being an orthopedic surgeon rather than a business owner."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
19. What are your hobbies and interests outside of work and school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality and see that you have a healthy work/life balance. It is best to mention hobbies that showcase your strengths, skills, and passion that can transfer to your job as an orthopedic surgeon. For example, if one of your hobbies is volunteering at the local food bank, it shows the interviewers that you enjoy helping people and are empathetic and compassionate. Mention several hobbies and why you enjoy them while avoiding interests that could be construed as unprofessional.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"When not working or going to school, I enjoy playing golf with my friends, trail running, and painting. These activities help me relax and focus on something other than work. While I love being a physician and all the hard work that has gone into it, I understand the need to take time for myself."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
20. 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 December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Something I am proud of that is not on my resume is how I volunteer with an NGO that helps patients in developing countries who suffer from spina bifida. I have taken on a managerial role and organize and produce fundraising events. In the past three years in this role, I have helped raise over sixteen million dollars with my strategic marketing plan. The money is used for teams of physicians and nurses to go to the communities that need help, and the citizens are offered free care and treatment. After my residency, I will be a part of the surgical care team, which I am really looking forward to."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
21. How do you deal with constructive criticism?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will undoubtedly be given constructive criticism during your orthopedic surgery residency. Sometimes the feedback will not be delivered in a respectful manner, while other times, it will. The interviewers want to see that you can handle any feedback and realize that no matter how constructive criticism is delivered, it is an opportunity for you to grow professionally. Describe how you deal with constructive criticism and use it as a learning opportunity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I value constructive criticism as it helps me grow professionally. Generally, the person giving me feedback has more experience and knowledge than I do, so I see it as a learning opportunity to fine-tune my craft."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
22. 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 orthopedic surgery 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 December 15th, 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 an orthopedic surgeon. 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 December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
23. Who in your life has inspired you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question to see if someone motivated you to pursue a career as an orthopedic surgeon and also to hear how you communicate and connect with other people. It is best to describe a person you are close to and avoid political or religious figures. You do not know what the interviewers' beliefs are, and you definitely do not want to offend anyone.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"So many people have inspired me in my life. If I had to choose who has inspired me the most, I would say my father. When I was three years old, my father was a soldier and was injured in Iraq. He returned home with an amputated leg and arm and PTSD. He went through many years of counseling and is now a motivational speaker who helps other wounded veterans. He has always been there for me and my family, never complained, and proved that you can get through anything with hard work and dedication."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Discovery
24. Why are you pursuing a career as an orthopedic surgeon?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 orthopedic surgeon mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from an orthopedic surgeon.
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 December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am pursuing a career as an orthopedic surgeon after volunteering in hospitals in Kenya as a missionary. I went to medical school not knowing what path I would follow, but I soon found that I enjoyed anatomy and physiology and the mechanics of the human body. After speaking with an orthopedic surgeon, I decided orthopedic surgery offers the qualities I desire in a career. Orthopedic surgery allows me to serve others, use my critical-thinking skills, work on a team, and it is a career where I will be lifelong learning."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Education
25. Did you spend any time overseas during your clinicals?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In most medical schools, it is possible to arrange an overseas clinical elective, especially during your fourth year. There are many benefits to studying overseas as a medical student, which the interviewers know. They ask this question to see if you chose an overseas clinical elective to understand what interests and inspires you. Some residency programs will also require overseas clinical experience to match their program. Describe your experience, if any. If you did not go overseas as an elective, explain why you chose not to.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I was fortunate to go to Kenya for four weeks in my last year of medical school. It was a highly educational experience as I saw patients with diseases I would not have seen in the United States. I also learned about patients' experiences under different legal healthcare structures and was provided a cultural understanding that will affect my subsequent training and practice as an orthopedic surgeon."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Education
26. 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 orthopedic surgery 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 December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I received my Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Florida State University and then attended medical school at Florida State University College of Medicine after sitting for the Medical College Admissions Test. I obtained my Doctor of Medicine degree, passed both medical licensing exams, and completed my rotations, which is where I gravitated toward orthopedics. I recently completed my one-year internship and am prepared and qualified to advance in the orthopedic surgery residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Operational
27. Tell us about a day in the life of an orthopedic surgery resident.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every specialty will have a slightly different day in the life of a resident. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand your daily life as an orthopedic surgery 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 fellows and residents 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 December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"After speaking with a former resident and fellow of your program, I have a good understanding of the daily life of an orthopedic surgery resident. Every morning there is orthopedic education from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Afterward, I will go to my respective rotation. When I am in orthopedic service, I will start morning rounds at 5 a.m., working throughout the day with chief residents and attendings in the OR, gaining hands-on experience. The workday ends at 5 p.m. unless I am on-call, which happens twice per month."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Stress
28. What part of medical school was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what part of medical school was most stressful to determine what aspects of the residency program may be challenging. They also want to hear how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I cannot name one thing that was the most stressful, as each year had new stressors. The most stressful part of my first year was getting used to the fast-paced environment and learning large amounts of information in a short amount of time. The board exams made my second year stressful, and my third year was getting close to applying for residency. By my fourth year, I had learned to manage my stress by staying focused and organized. I developed a great study system and used my downtime to exercise and rest. After attending medical school, I know I am ready for whatever stress I will experience in my residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
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Teamwork
29. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an orthopedic surgeon, you must collaborate well with others. You will be responsible for leading a surgical team and working with other specialized healthcare professionals. As an orthopedic surgery resident, you will collaborate with attending physicians, patients, residents, and fellows. The interviewers want to hear that you work well with others and will be a valued team player if matched to their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 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. A team approach accomplishes greater things than working alone, as we can all learn from each other's experiences."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Tough
30. Describe a time when you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You may be asked to do unethical things as an orthopedic surgeon. 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 in your position. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something or someone asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong. Describe a time you had your ethics tested and how you responded.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested during my second year of medical school. A classmate asked me to help him cheat on a test because he had not had time to study. Even though we were friends, I told him I could not ethically help him cheat and that, as physicians, we are held to a higher standard. After that, I found it very hard to be friends with him since I do not condone that behavior."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 15th, 2022