30 Otolaryngology Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Adaptability
1. What is your least favorite part about being a physician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most physicians find more pros than cons to working as a doctor. However, there are some, such as long hours, being on call, rules and regulations, dealing with insurance companies, and rude patients. The interviewers want to hear what you like the least about being a physician to learn more about your personality. Be sure you briefly say what you like least, then end on a positive note by explaining how the other aspects of being a physician outweigh the bad.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My least favorite part of working as a physician is the sacrifices my family has to make when I am working long hours and on holidays. However, I discussed the challenges we would face as a family before going to medical school, and they understood and supported me. We have developed a plan to celebrate holidays and birthdays on my day off before the event, so we don't miss out on spending time together as a family."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Ask The Interviewer
2. What questions do you have about our 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 28th, 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 percentage of teaching or attending rounds are spent at the patient's bedside? What resources are available to assist residents in the fellowship application process? Finally, what would you describe as your program's strengths?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Career Goals
3. Do you plan to pursue a fellowship after completing your residency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
On average, approximately 58% of graduating otolaryngology residents in the United States pursue a fellowship. The interviewers are curious about your career goals after you complete the residency program and if you will be one of the 58% who pursue a fellowship. They want to see what sub-specialty interests you and why you chose to continue furthering your education. 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 December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am interested in pursuing a pediatric otolaryngology fellowship after completing my residency. After doing an overseas clinical and working with children with cleft lip and palate, I decided to focus my career on helping children born with these conditions by providing reconstructive surgery."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Career Goals
4. Do you aspire to have your own practice one day? If so, what about business ownership interests you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, approximately 60% of practicing otolaryngologists are in private practice. 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 28th, 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 practice is more appealing because I want to focus on being an ENT physician rather than a business owner."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Career Goals
5. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are curious about your long-term 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 work as a neurologist or work in a teaching capacity. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them. Then, describe where you see yourself in ten years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In ten years, I see myself working as a pediatric otolaryngologist at a children's hospital. After my residency, I plan to pursue a pediatric otolaryngology fellowship, focusing on identifying and treating communication disorders in children. My younger brother could not talk for the first five years of his life. Once he was referred to a pediatric otolaryngologist, he was diagnosed with hearing loss that had gone undetected since he was born. With proper diagnosis and treatment, my brother was finally able to communicate, and that is when I knew I wanted to become a pediatric ENT physician."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Compatibility
6. How would you describe your bedside manner?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Bedside manner is a physician's approach or attitude toward a patient. The interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the qualities they seek in a resident. They 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 December 28th, 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 December 28th, 2022
Compatibility
7. 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 otolaryngology 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 28th, 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 otolaryngologist. 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 28th, 2022
Compatibility
8. What qualities and characteristics make an excellent otolaryngologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent otolaryngologist, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Excellent otolaryngologists 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 ENT physician.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent otolaryngologist. You must be compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, otolaryngologists must take the time to listen to their patients while providing compassionate care. Excellent ENT physicians also have analytical and critical-thinking skills, which help diagnose and treat highly complex disorders. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed as an otolaryngologist."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Competency
9. What post-op instructions would you give a parent after performing a tonsillectomy on their child?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Standard post-op instructions given to a parent after their child has had a tonsillectomy include pain management, bleeding control, fluid intake, diet, physical activity restrictions, hygiene, and what to do if the child develops a fever. The interviewers ask this question to gauge your competency with this particular surgery and your communication skills with the parent. Describe what instructions you would give the parent after performing a tonsillectomy on their child.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would instruct the parent that strenuous physical activity is discouraged for one week to ten days, but mild activity is encouraged after three to four days if their child is up for it. I would instruct the parent to give their child liquids and soft foods, manage the pain with liquid Tylenol or Tylenol with Codeine and an ice collar, and call me if a fever develops and persists for more than two days. I would have them watch for coughing, spitting, or vomiting blood and schedule them for a follow-up visit in three to four weeks."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Competency
10. What can cause sinonasal tumors?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your interview, you may be asked questions relevant to your profession to test your competency. Some causes of these rare tumors include being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and exposure to industrial fumes, tobacco, and radiation. Other causes include wood, flour, textile, leather, nickel, or chromium dust exposure. Describe the different causes of sinonasal tumors to show the interviewers your knowledge of these tumors.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Sinonasal tumors are extremely rare and are only 3% of tumors seen in the upper respiratory tract. They are generally seen more in men than women and can be caused by exposure to industrial chemicals, tobacco, the human papillomavirus, and exposure to wood, leather, nickel, textile, or chromium dust. I saw a patient diagnosed with a sinonasal tumor during my clinicals. He had worked at a textile factory for 35 years, and that is what the attending felt contributed to his cancerous tumor."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Conflict
11. How do you handle conflict with a colleague?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for colleagues to have a dispute or disagreement 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 interviewers 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 28th, 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. When I have a dispute with a colleague, I ask to speak to them privately to discuss the matter. It is never professional to have a disagreement or conflict in front of others."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Diligence
12. In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the ENT field will face in the next few years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you are forward-thinking and have identified challenges in the field of otolaryngology. As this question asks your opinion, there is no wrong answer. However, if you have no response to what challenges you will face as an ENT physician, 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 December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The greatest challenge in otolaryngology in the next few years is what we currently face. We have many medications to treat certain disorders, but nothing to stop the disease process. More research needs to be done to understand why patients develop certain 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 ENT field in the next few years?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Direct
13. Tell us about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will often ask this question first to break the ice and start the conversation. Take a few minutes to tell the interviewers about yourself, demonstrating essential skills and characteristics that are valuable as a resident.
Taking the past, present, and future approach in your response is recommended. You'd like to mention how you started down this career path, what steps you have taken to get to where you are now, and what your future goals are. Be sure to highlight any promotions or achievements you are proud of and any other work-related accomplishments. You can mention extracurricular activities you are interested in, family life, or volunteer work if it ties in with the qualities needed for an otolaryngology resident, showing you are a responsible and dedicated individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I grew up in a small town in Minnesota playing hockey and football. These sports taught me the importance of teamwork and how every person has specific skill sets to lead a team to victory. I also learned that teamwork is built on leadership, trust, and collaboration. Over the years, I suffered head and neck injuries that prohibited me from playing these sports. Undergoing the process of diagnosis and treatment allowed me to gain an appreciation for the teams that helped me heal. I decided to pursue an otolaryngologist career to help others, as my teams did for me. I can now enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking due to the exceptional care I received. After completing my residency, I plan to pursue a fellowship in head and neck surgery since my passion is to help others with the same injuries I previously had. I am very excited to be interviewing for your program as it will help me achieve my goal of helping others with their quality of life and overall well-being."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I grew up in Kansas City as the 2nd of 5 children. Both of my parents were nurses who inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. Looking after my siblings as we all grew up gave me a caretaking spirit that followed me through my training. I knew that I wanted to be a physician, so I was honored to attend a combined undergraduate and medical program after high school. While there, I discovered my love for otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery during my rotations. This has been a goal for a long time, and I am ecstatic and grateful to interview for a fellowship position for the career I have been aspiring for over a decade."
Written by an Anonymous User
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Direct
14. Otolaryngology is a highly competitive residency to match. Why should we choose you over other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Otolaryngology is one of the most competitive surgical residencies to match into in the United States, with a match rate of only 64%. 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 28th, 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 have written many scholarly articles on facial paralysis caused by Bell's palsy, surgical margins of the oral cavity, and laryngeal cancers. 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 wonderful residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
15. Who is your greatest supporter?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Going through a residency can be challenging for some. The interviewers ask this question to see that you have a support system when things become difficult. How you respond also shows the interviewers how you connect with others. Describe your greatest supporter and how they have supported you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest supporter is my mother. She supported me as a single mom growing up, and she continues to support my decisions. She was very excited when I told her I wanted to go to medical school, and even more so now that I am pursuing my otolaryngology residency. She calls or texts me daily to see how I am doing and always asks about interesting cases I have seen. If I am having a particularly stressful day, she is always there to listen and offer advice."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
16. Tell us about the day in the life of an otolaryngology 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 otolaryngology 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 the program directors. It would be best if you understood what your day entails before starting the program, so there are no surprises.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 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 with the attending physician. 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 December 28th, 2022
Discovery
17. What will be your greatest challenge during residency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every residency program will have challenges. Finances, work/life balance, relocation, time management, research, studying, and patient care, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you are proactive and have identified what will be most challenging and decided how to overcome the challenge. Describe what will be the most difficult part of your residency and what you plan to do about it.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest challenge will be relocating to a new city and not knowing anyone. I went to medical school in my hometown and knew many of my classmates, professors, and hospital staff. Both of my parents work in the medical field, and they introduced me to many healthcare professionals when I was growing up. However, while moving to a new place where I do not know anyone will be challenging, I look forward to making new friends and memories. I bought a guidebook on the city and plan to explore by bicycle when I have downtime. Also, with technology, I can stay in contact with my friends and family back home while doing my residency."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
18. In your opinion, what was the greatest medical invention in the last 50 years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the last 50 years, there have been game-changing advancements in the medical industry, such as laser eye surgery, in vitro fertilization, artificial organs, surgical improvements, magnetic resonance imaging, and bionic prostheses, to name a few. The interviewers ask this question to learn more about your personality by seeing what you find interesting in the medical industry. There is no incorrect answer as this asks for your opinion. When responding, describe what you believe to be the most significant medical invention and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"This is a tough question because there have been many breakthrough advancements and inventions in the past 50 years. However, I am most fascinated with 3D printing. I find it amazing that dental implants and prosthetics are created using 3D printers, and now researchers are looking for ways to print whole organs. What's exciting about full 3D-printed organs is that new drugs could be tested on them without harming patients, and it could eliminate the need for animal testing. I'm excited to see what the next 50 years have in store for the medical industry!"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
19. Who has inspired you the most in your life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question to see if someone motivated you to pursue a career as an ENT physician and to hear how you communicate and connect with others. It is best to describe a person you are close to and avoid political or religious figures. You do not know the interviewers' beliefs and do not want to offend anyone.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The person who has inspired me the most in my life is my brother. My parents were killed in an airplane crash when I was ten, and my brother was eighteen. He went to court to become my guardian and raised me by himself. He worked three jobs to support us and never once complained. Even though we were both grieving, he was always there and was an incredible role model. He taught me the value of hard work, setting goals, and achieving dreams. He went on to become a neurosurgeon and is the reason I chose to pursue a career in medicine."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
20. Why are you pursuing a career in otolaryngology?
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 otolaryngologist mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from an ENT physician.
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 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am pursuing a career as an otolaryngologist after volunteering in hospitals in Sudan as a missionary. I went to medical school not knowing what path I would follow, but I soon found that I enjoyed the anatomy of the head and neck. After speaking with an ENT physician, I decided this field offers the qualities I desire in a career, as the operative techniques are extremely varied. Also, working as an otolaryngologist allows me to serve others, develop long-lasting relationships with my patients, 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 28th, 2022
Discovery
21. What surgical case have you found most fascinating in your training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a med student, you were exposed to many different types of surgeries during your clinical rotations. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into what you have been exposed to in your training and what you find fascinating. There is no wrong answer, the interviewers simply want to learn more about your personality and what kind of surgical cases interest you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The surgical case I found most fascinating was a rotationplasty reconstructive surgery. A pediatric patient with a Ewing sarcoma near the knee was unresponsive to other treatments. The surgeon removed the bottom of the patient's femur, the knee, and the upper tibia. He then attached the foot to the knee backward. Once a prosthetic was fitted, the ankle of the foot then functioned as a knee. The patient responded well to the surgery and lived an active life. It was a truly amazing surgery to witness."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
22. 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 otolaryngologist. 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 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have many interests outside of work and school. I am the captain of a rowing team, and I enjoy squash and skiing in the winter. I also like playing chess, listening to music, and reading historical fiction. All these activities are good for relieving stress, staying in shape, and allowing me to stay mentally sharp."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
23. Why did you choose to apply to our otolaryngology residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are currently 120 otolaryngology residency programs in the United States. 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 otolaryngology residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, your mission of training residents to provide compassionate care to a diverse population resonates with my values. Secondly, your program was the first ENT residency program in the country. After researching your program in greater depth, I was excited to see that you offer many opportunities in research, teaching, and patient care. You offer pathways for residents with specific career interests in providing patient and family-centered care in urban and suburban community hospitals, which is the career path I want to take. After reading all you have to offer and with the recommendation from former residents, there is no other program I would rather attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Experience
24. Do you have any overseas clinical experience?
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 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I was fortunate to go to Haiti 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 otolaryngologist."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Experience
25. What is the most challenging experience you have had in your medical training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your medical training, you most likely experienced many challenges. The interviewers ask this question to hear about a challenging experience you had in medical school and how you responded. When responding, the interviewers will gain insight into your problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to determine if you will be a good fit for their program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The most challenging experience I had during medical training was when I was doing my emergency department rotation. We were notified that Life Flight was coming in with an 18 to 20 year-old-female with major trauma from a motor vehicle crash into the back of a tractor-trailer at a high rate of speed. When the patient came in unconscious and covered in blood, she was unrecognizable. As I was helping the attending with the patient's airway, I realized the patient was my younger sister. I immediately told the physician that the patient was my sister and asked if I could remove myself from the room to call my parents. I was granted permission and had to make the difficult call to my parents, who live eight hours away. I helped my parents find and book the next flight out and returned to be with my sister. She had been rushed to surgery and survived her injuries, but she now has paraplegia. That was most definitely the most challenging experience during my training."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Stress
26. How well do you work under pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, you must have the skills to work well under pressure. The interviewers want to hear that you can remain calm and professional when faced with the stressors of your job. Give an example of working under pressure related to your role as a physician to show the interview panel you have the skills they seek in a resident. You might have had a patient that went into cardiac arrest while you were assessing them or had a loved one come into the hospital who was injured while you were working. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I work very well under pressure. I can remain calm when there is a lot of stress or pressure at work and focus on what needs to be done. During my surgical rotation, my attending went into cardiac arrest in the middle of surgery. I demonstrated how I work under pressure by calling a code blue and starting CPR. I also instructed the surgical team on what to do for the patient. That was the most stressful situation during medical school, and colleagues commended me for my quick actions and ability to remain calm."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Stress
27. 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 28th, 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 quickly. 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 might experience in my residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Tough
28. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness as a physician 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 interviewers may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent physician.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My weakness as a physician is a hesitancy to delegate. I know what I want to be done and how I want it done, so it's often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow as a physician. I will need to delegate tasks to my surgical team, so I have been working on making this weakness a strength. I am reading a book called Don't Do, Delegate by James Jenks and have been practicing his exercises. My propensity to hold onto control has decreased since starting the book, so I'm certainly moving in the right direction."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Tough
29. 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 December 28th, 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 suggest getting 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 December 28th, 2022
Tough
30. Tell us about an ethical dilemma you encountered while in medical school.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, 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 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 when you encountered an ethical dilemma in medical school and how you responded.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 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 type of behavior."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022