39 Residency Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?

Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewers about who has inspired your life and why.

Rachelle's Answer

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."

Anonymous Answer

"My mother is my biggest inspiration. She is one of the most hard-working and dedicated persons I have known in my life. She has always been my greatest supporter, and regardless of how tired she may be, she takes the time to listen to those around her. She sees the best in others and encourages them to be their best regardless of the challenges and expectations the world brings."

Rachelle's Answer

Your mother sounds like a wonderful person! If you take these qualities and apply them to your approach with patients, you will make a big difference in the lives of many. Nicely said :)

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2.

What is your opinion on socialized health care versus privatized health care?

This is the type of question meant to start up a conversation between yourself and the interview panel. They want to see a bit of your personal opinion, your critical thinking skills and your ability to be diplomatic when it comes to hot topics. Avoid any offensive answers! It's best if you can bring an answer that appeals to both sides while not appearing wishy-washy.

Rachelle's Answer

"I believe that the basic concepts of socialized health care and privatized health care are good by nature, and speak to a range of patients. Some of my patients have expressed their love for socialized health care because, although they pay a higher tax rate, they are not caught in an expensive whirlwind when they face illness. Privatized health care on the other hand can offer significantly shorter wait times which is very important for those with potentially critical or debilitating illness. I believe it is important to have options for both so that people can choose."

3.

Is there anything we haven't covered that you would like to ask?

Before your residency interview, make sure you conduct research on the company and thoroughly review the program description for any clarification you may need on the residency position. Asking intelligent questions demonstrates to the interviewers your level of interest in their facility, and their residency program.

If for some reason you are not prepared for the interview, and you need to think of questions off the top of your head, ask questions regarding their culture, traits they are looking for in the ideal candidate, and if there is anything not listed on the role description that this position will be in charge of.

Rachelle's Answer

"- When would you like to have this position filled?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the facility's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest challenge facing this facility in the next 12 months?
- Is there any reason why you would not move me to the next stage of interviews?"

4.

What is your personal mission statement?

Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In the workplace, especially when entering a role in healthcare, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you, or a saying that you grew up with that really resonates with you?

Rachelle's Answer

"My personal mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble caretaker and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of physician that takes credit for all of the good work."

Anonymous Answer

"Always focus on the present. Whatever you do in the present will shape what your future looks like. So make the best use of "now"."

Rachelle's Answer

Wonderful mission statement! It seems that you are a true go-getter with a great deal of focus :)

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5.

Describe your personality to us in 3 words.

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Residency Interview Questions

Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?

Residency Interview Questions

Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?

What is your opinion on socialized health care versus privatized health care?

Is there anything we haven't covered that you would like to ask?

What is your personal mission statement?

Describe your personality to us in 3 words.

What do you believe is the greatest challenge your specialty will face in the next few years?

Who has inspired you in your life and why?

What are your strengths?

Are you applying for any other jobs?

How do you stay on top of trends and changes in the medical industry?

While attending medical school, what fascinated you most about your cadaver?

How do you invest in your personal development?

Tell me about yourself.

What would you do if you witnessed a fellow resident acting unethically?

When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

What book are you currently reading?

If being a Physician was not an option, what career path would you choose?

Would you have any trouble working with a religiously affiliated hospital or medical facility?

Tell us about the most interesting case you were exposed to while attending medical school.

Are you willing to relocate for your residency?

Competition for this space is strong. What makes you a stand-out resident for our program?

What are your plans, after completing our residency program?

Have you completed all ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) requirements, to start a residency?

While attending medical school, what was your favorite course? Why?

What types of activities keep you busy, outside of work?

All of our residency program candidates must pass a criminal record check and education verification. Is there any reason why you would not be comfortable with this?

What are you reading right now?

Do you have any questions for me?

How do you handle stress on the job?

If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

Being a Physician is an incredibly stressful and demanding career. How do you manage high amounts of stress?

How do you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning?

Are you applying to any other residency programs?

We would like to know you on a more personal level. Outside of medicine, what are your interests?

What do you see as the biggest difference between the U.S healthcare system and that of another developed country?

Why did you choose your particular specialty?

How would you like to see the delivery of healthcare evolve?

What do you wish to gain through this residency program?

What drives your passion for a career in medicine?