If we asked your friends, what would they say are your strengths and weaknesses?

"If you were to ask my core group of close friends, they would tell you that my strengths are my communication and motivational skills. I have an infectious spirit and can connect with any type of personality. They would also tell you that my weakness is self-criticism. I frequently reflect on my words and actions and wonder if I should have said or done something different. I've continued to work on my self-criticism because I know it is unwarranted at times, and I've been more confident and comfortable with my work since making this effort."

Give a strength that is unique to you and applies to the field of medicine. It is a common strategy to offer a weakness that is actually a strength (e.g., "My weakness is that I work too hard"). The interviewers will recognize this as a weak tactic. Instead, provide an example of a legitimate weakness that you have worked to improve. You should not offer more weaknesses than strengths in your answer.