40 Residency Interview Questions & Answers

Table of Contents

1. Accomplishment Questions
2. Adaptability Questions
3. Ask The Interviewer Questions
4. Career Goals Questions
5. Common Questions
6. Communication Questions
7. Competency Questions
8. Conflict Questions
9. Creative Thinking Questions
10. Diligence Questions
11. Direct Questions
12. Discovery Questions
13. Education Questions
14. Experience Questions
15. Stress Questions
16. Teamwork Questions

Accomplishment

1. What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment to date?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your team of interviewers wants to ensure that their future residents are motivated and driven to succeed. In asking this question, your interviewers want to know what kind of successes you value in your journey towards becoming a practicing physician.

Written by Christine Pasqueretta on February 1st, 2023

How to Answer

Before your interview, research the mission, vision, and values of the institution you will be interviewing with. Reviewing these should give you a good sense of the type of organization they are and what they look for in their future trainees. Think about a stand-out accomplishment you believe will resonate with your interviewers. Choose an achievement related to the successes you hope to see as a resident in their program. Explain why the accomplishment means so much to you, both personally and professionally. Assure the interviewers that you will continue this pattern of achievement as a resident with their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

Answer Example

"I would honestly say that my greatest accomplishment in my life so far was being accepted into medical school. I am a first-generation college student and had an uphill battle my entire educational journey. My parents instilled a hardworking and genuine, caring nature in me from a very young age, and these values have driven me from my high school diploma to my white coat ceremony in med school."

Written by Christine Pasqueretta on February 1st, 2023

Internal Medicine Example

My greatest accomplishment to date has been my involvement in my neighborhood food bank. I started volunteering there in high school when it was just starting, in response to a need I saw in my community. I worked directly with the woman who started this program when it was located in a small office space. In response to the growing need, the food bank expanded and currently has a large warehouse with hundreds of needy families being helped there every week. I have continued volunteering there throughout my college and medical school years, and it has been a very gratifying experience.
My involvement in this project taught me to look for opportunities to help others, and how hard work takes time but ultimately pays off in a very satisfying way.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I consider being the first in my family to attain higher education my greatest accomplishment. As a first-generation college student and medical student, I have worked very hard to get to this point and am proud of this accomplishment."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My greatest accomplishment was matriculating into medical school. I've wanted to become a physician since I was a little boy and worked very hard throughout high school and college, often spending my free time studying or volunteering in the community. Medical school admission was the culmination of academic excellence, continued community service, and determination. I look forward to accomplishing more of my personal goals in the future as a radiologist!"

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"One of my accomplishments that I feel most proud of, and think is one of my greatest to date, is my research work investigating novel therapies in dermatology. Through my research, I not only learned valuable skills in scientific investigation, including how to be a knowledgeable reader of new research, but I also could see firsthand how my research could play a small part in contributing to a cure for difficult-to-cure dermatologic disease. I am proud of my personal growth through this accomplishment, as well as my contribution to dermatology research."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I have two things that I'm most proud of, one professional/educational and one personal. Professionally and educationally, I would say my greatest accomplishment so far has been getting into medical school after deciding to switch careers. I knew I was taking a big risk by quitting my job to complete a post-bac program, but I had faith that I could perform well enough academically to be accepted to my dream program. I think my greatest accomplishment was completing an Ironman triathlon. It took months and months of training and preparation, but it was all worth it when I crossed the finish line."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Adaptability

2. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. When you enter a fast-paced residency program, these setbacks can certainly be amplified, and your interviewers want to know you will handle any situation with ease if you are accepted into their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Describe how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace. As you answer, focus on your ability to learn from your mistakes and stay calm, cool, and collected in the face of any situation you would be handling as their next resident.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be disheartening, especially when it involves a patient. I understand that setbacks happen often in residency. If I experience a major setback while on your team, I will take a few moments to internally debrief, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a mentor. Then, I move on. I need to recover quickly so I can concentrate on the next case."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Having a setback or an unanticipated event happen is always challenging. While it is easy to get upset or frustrated, I try to look at things objectively, reframe the situation, and do what is necessary to correct or improve the situation. Additionally, seeking advice from other team members or trainers is also helpful. Taking a break to get fresh air or have a snack gives me a mental break and allows me to return to the situation with a fresh perspective. Taking a walk or exercising is also a good way to relieve stress and renew my energy level.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Suffering a setback can be challenging. When suffering a setback, I try to look at it as an opportunity. With each setback, I try to learn something from the experience and move on."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Setbacks are usually unexpected and often challenging to navigate. I think emotional reactions to them are natural, but I try not to let them impact my clinical work or patient care. Optimistically, setbacks can be viewed as a platform for introspection and personal growth."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Setbacks are common, and I view them as an opportunity to learn and improve. While setbacks may be disheartening initially, I take a moment to regroup and remind myself that setbacks are normal whenever we try to get tasks done. I then take a critical look at what went wrong and how I can work on this to prevent such setbacks in the future."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I think part of doing meaningful work is facing challenges. This can sometimes come in the form of setbacks, but I try to remember that setbacks are part of every process and that they allow us to learn from our mistakes or missteps and think more creatively about whatever challenge we face."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I understand setbacks are almost inevitable. Even people that have years of expertise and experience might still experience some setbacks. If that happens, I would calm down first, because panicking has never been shown to help, pray (because God is really important to me), and I would also seek advice from a mentor or someone in a position to advise me."

Kevin's Feedback

Your response offers a general perspective on your approach, but no applicable techniques that you've put to the test. You say you would first calm down, but how would you go about calming down? What if praying wasn't enough to calm down? If you were working in a high stressed, fast-paced environment, how often would you be praying to calm yourself down, and how effective would that be? You mention you would consult a mentor, but what if they were not available, or there was not the luxury of time to reach out to them?

"I’ve faced some setbacks during some high stressed times. At those times, I decide to move fast and act fast. Sometimes you have to roll with the punches and just keep moving forward. So, if I can afford a few minutes, I’ll take a three-minute break and listen to this song that instantly boosts my mood. I’d then watch this video my mom sent me years ago where she gave me a pep talk telling me I could do anything. Then I’d get back to work. As soon as there was some downtime, I’d examine what led to that setback and take what I could to learn from the experience."

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"Although setbacks are disappointing, I believe every setback can teach me something, and I try to make it a step toward a positive change and move on because I know that I need to save my energy and positive attitude to be able to reach that goal and provide excellent care for my patients."

Rachelle's Feedback

You are right - it's essential to save energy and keep a positive attitude. It's for the good of you and your patients :) Do you have an example of a time when you suffered a setback but recovered by using the situation as a learning opportunity? If so, this question presents an excellent storytelling opportunity.

Ask The Interviewer

3. Is there anything we haven't covered during your interview that you would like to ask about?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Asking intelligent questions during your residency interviews will demonstrate to your interviewers that you have a deep level of interest in their institution and residency program. By asking you what additional questions you might have, your interviewers will want to see you dig deep and ask the tough questions that show you are committed to joining their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Before your residency interview, research the organization and thoroughly review the program description for any clarification you may need about becoming a resident in this program. If 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, the traits they are looking for in the ideal candidate, and if there are any responsibilities of this position not listed on the role description.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"Thank you for asking! I would love to ask some questions about your program, specifically related to your residents and their futures. First, where do most of your program's graduates practice after their training? Are they mostly in community settings or academic settings? Also, I'm curious about the traits that are critical for new medical school graduates to succeed in their first year in your program."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I appreciate the opportunity to ask questions. What type of research opportunities are there during the training? How well do the residents interact with the allied health staff?

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I appreciate that you have been so gracious in answering my questions. Continuing to learn is very important to me in a residency program. Is didactic time considered protected time? What percentage of time is spent in the clinic?"

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Absolutely. I would love to learn more about the dynamic between attendings and residents in the reading room. Are attending physicians available throughout the day to read out cases with residents? Also, do residents have dedicated lecture time to review material and ask questions?"

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Mentorship has been an incredibly important aspect of my career thus far, and I hope it will continue to be during residency. What formal or informal opportunities for mentorship from faculty are available at your program?"

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Thanks so much for your thoughtful questions. I was wondering how your program supports residents pursuing their research and academic passions during residency, especially for those who wish to present at national conferences."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Career Goals

4. What are your career plans and goals after completing our residency program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers want to find future residents interested in furthering their careers with their institution. While it is not a prerequisite for this program, your interview panel wants to hear that you have well-defined career goals that this training program will help you reach.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Outline how the residency program you are interviewing with will help you prepare for those goals. It is also okay to express that you are still considering your options as long as you highlight a few directions you are hopeful to go. Remember that you do not want to shut the door on any potential opportunities.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I entered medical school intending to pursue a career as a pediatrician, and I'm so fortunate to be interviewed and considered for your esteemed pediatrician residency program. At this point, I can honestly see myself as a general pediatrician or pursuing an additional fellowship to subspecialize in pediatric oncology or gastroenterology. I believe that my goals will become clearer as I work through my residency."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

After completing this residency program, I plan to pursue a cardiology fellowship. Cardiology is a very fast-paced field that allows for both intellectually stimulating aspects such as EKG interpretation as well as hands-on procedures, including stents and percutaneous valve replacement. Additionally, there is a very high level of ongoing research and innovations that is very exciting.

This internal medicine residency will offer me exposure to a wide range of medical conditions and will give me a strong foundation on which to pursue further training.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I would like to pursue a career as a primary care physician. I am eager to provide excellent care to patients within the community that I grew up in."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Ideally, I would love to land a hybrid private practice/academic job. I enjoy the fast-paced workflow and variety of cases seen in private practice, but I also enjoy the teaching environment and case complexity seen with academic positions. My top priority, however, is to serve as an excellent clinician."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I have explored different career paths in dermatology, including community and academic practice. I love all aspects of dermatology, and coming from an academic background, I love to teach and participate in research. I aim to practice as an academic medical dermatologist, allowing me to practice general dermatology as well as develop a specialty area of interest. I hope to teach medical students and residents and partake in research to provide the best treatments for my patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"At this point, I haven't decided on an ultimate career path in Emergency Medicine, but I'm considering pursuing a fellowship in Ultrasound or Critical Care. I hope to find my passion within Emergency Medicine during residency by matching with a program with a diverse patient population and different types of training environments."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I see myself working in an academic institution where I can be exposed to the most diverse experiences, continue my research, have the opportunity to educate the next generation of radiologists, and take the initiative to help people in medically underserved areas all over the world."

Rachelle's Feedback

Excellent! You have a clear direction, which the interviewer should appreciate hearing.

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"I see myself working as a primary care physician in an academic setting. This allows me to educate the next generation of doctors. I get to continue my interest in research by taking what I've seen in the clinic and formulating research questions. I also really enjoy the spirit of everyone who works in academic centers and see myself fitting well into this culture.

Apart from that, during my spare time, I see myself working with my community and addressing social determinants of health through outreach projects.

I can see myself working in an underserved area like Greenville because it allows me to engage in these various aspects by joining your faculty."

Marcie's Feedback

Awesome! This is a great answer because you clearly explain what your long-term career and personal goals are once you've completed the residency program. It's apparent that you will make good use of the skills and experience you gain in the program. The interviewer will also appreciate that you want to help underserved populations. Finally, you come across as genuine and compassionate. Great answer!

Anonymous Answer

"After finishing the residency program I am planning to go back to the same health center where I used to work(in my old town). I will use the skills and experiences I gained in residency in order to provide better care for the patients l. I will focus on doing more awareness campaigns. Also, I will continue the learning process. I am planning to apply for a fellowship in women's health."

Marcie's Feedback

It's great that you plan to apply your new skills and experience where you previously worked. Why do you want to return and not start something new? Can you talk more about what you like about this health center and why you want to go back to it? Also, what skills and experience do you plan to take back with you? And how exactly will you apply them to benefit the patients in this health center? Giving more details will further build out and strengthen your answer to make it even more impactful. Good job!

Anonymous Answer

"First, my plan is to get selected for the residency and I would like to explore different subspecialties of neurology. I have a slight inclination toward vascular neurology so you can see me pursuing my career in that field as well. I also imagine myself living in the suburbs of Philadelphia with my wife and my children."

Jaymie's Feedback

These are great goals to share with the interviewer.

Career Goals

5. Why are you choosing to match into this particular specialty?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

There are many medical specialties you can choose from. In asking this question, your team of interviewers simply wants to know that you have some direction and clarity regarding your path in the medical field and that you would join their program as a motivated resident in the field.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Talk about your reason for choosing your specialty. Feel free to add a personal touch to your answer. This will help the interviewers relate to you as an individual and make for a memorable conversation down the road as the interviewers decide which applicants to accept.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"My ultimate career goal is to practice in cardiology and electrophysiology, and a residency in a great internal medicine program like yours is how I will get there. After speaking with several physicians who trained at your amazing institution, I feel great about this opportunity to train with some of the best faculty in the field."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

An internal medicine residency offers me exposure to a wide range of adult medical conditions. I enjoy the intellectual aspect of being a diagnostician and look forward to the privilege of developing long-term relationships with patients for their healthcare needs.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I am pursuing Family Medicine because I am eager to treat a diverse patient population at different stages throughout their life. With family medicine training, I will be able to take care of patients from 'cradle to grave.'"

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Radiologists use cutting-edge technology to image complex human anatomy within the context of clinical findings. It is the perfect blend of anatomy, technology, and medicine. Nearly every specialty depends on imaging to guide patient care, and I love using my skillset to diagnose diseases."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Through my clinical experiences and working with my mentors in dermatology, I am drawn to dermatology as a visual specialty, which involves using visual clues along with patient history to come to a diagnosis. I love that dermatology is a broad specialty involving everything from complex medical diseases to common pediatric conditions. I also enjoy that there is a procedural aspect to dermatology, as I have seen dermatologists perform many procedures day-to-day, including biopsies and excisions. Most importantly, I am drawn to dermatology as a field that can greatly improve patients' quality of life."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I think Emergency Medicine is a perfect fit for me because I like the fast-paced, high-stakes atmosphere of the Emergency Department. I like the idea of treating people from all different walks of life and patient populations and getting to experience the most exciting aspects of all specialties. On top of all that, I think that Emergency Medicine attracts people with personalities that are outgoing, curious, and willing to think outside of the box, and I find that I like being around those types of people in a working environment."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"When I was in 3rd year of medical school, I was exposed to a different specialty in which neurology stood out. I still remember when I was posted in the ER there was one patient who presented with symptoms of brainstem stroke popularly known as Weber syndrome. On the basis of clinical history and examination, the attending was able to locate the site of the lesion and I got fascinated with that. I felt like he was trying to solve the puzzle. This event acted as a trigger event for me to develop an interest in this field.

This specialty also gives us the opportunity to create long and impactful relationships with patients. I used to hear stories from my mentor about how they were following the patient for a long time some over 50 years. So this type of relationship I was not able to see in the other specialty.

The third reason is the scarcity of neurologists in my country. If you try to find a cardiologist you can find many but that is not of neurology. There is a huge burden of neurological disease back in my country but the patient are not getting appropriate and timely care. So through neurology, I will be able to bring meaningful impact to my society."

Jaymie's Feedback

Interviewers like to hear personal stories that help them understand what attracted them to the specialty you've chosen. Your response is unique, and genuine and demonstrates your passion and desire to make an impact on the lives of your patients.

Common

6. Do you have any questions for us?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

As an interviewing medical student, you are an equal part of the matching process, and your interviewers want to ensure you walk away from your time with them with all questions answered so you can hopefully rank them high on your wish list. Asking intelligent questions demonstrates to the interviewer your level of interest in their program as well.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Before your interview, research the institution and thoroughly review the residency program for any clarification you may need. If you are not prepared for the interview, and you need to think of questions off the top of your head, ask questions regarding the organizational culture, traits they are looking for in the ideal candidate, and if there are any responsibilities of this position not listed in the role description.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"As I consider a lot of great programs throughout the country, I want to learn what characteristics and traits most often lead to success in a training program. What characteristics and traits do you see in your most successful residents, both during their time in training with your program and for future success in this field?"

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

What aspects of the residency program do you feel are the strongest and best prepare residents for their careers?

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Are residents assigned a faculty mentor?
What types of research opportunities are your current residents working on?"

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I'd love to know about current research opportunities within the department. Are there any positions available for junior residents?
Also, where do most residents and attendings live around the hospital? Do I need a car to commute?"

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I would love to learn about what is your favorite aspect of the program, and if there is anything important that you would love to make sure applicants know about your program?"

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"What's your favorite aspect of the culture of the program and how do you think that came about?"

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"What struggles do you think first year residents face the most?

What is your favorite part about working here?

What is the biggest challenge this hospital/facility is facing?"

Rachelle's Feedback

Terrific questions! The answers to these queries should give you a great deal of helpful insight into the facility.

Common

7. 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?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

In any healthcare-related setting, successfully passing a criminal background check is a necessity. Your interviewers ask this question to ensure that you would be able to pass any required state or federal background checks required by their institution.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

If you can successfully pass a criminal record check or education verification, explain that you have a clean record. If you have any blemishes on your records and are not able to pass a criminal record check or education verification, be upfront about that in the interview process. Any residency program will be more forgiving if you are honest about any marks on your background check.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I am ready to fully comply with any background and verification checks that are required of me to join your program as a resident. I have a clean criminal and driving records."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My criminal and educational records are clean and would not warrant any further concern.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I would be happy to do a criminal background check and understand that you must do your due diligence to protect the safety of patients. I am completely comfortable with this."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I have no opposition to completing a background check. There are no concerns in that regard."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I believe that honesty and professional conduct are incredibly important for physicians. I have disclosed everything honestly on my application, and would be comfortable proceeding with a criminal record check or education verification as required by your program."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Absolutely not, I have no reason to be uncomfortable with either of those."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I am happy to comply with any background checks required. My record is clean."

Marcie's Feedback

Great! The interviewer will be happy that you're open to having your record and education checked. You might also take this opportunity to remind the interviewer that you are honest, law-abiding, and full of integrity. Whenever possible, sell yourself!

Communication

8. How would you describe the communication skills you would bring to our program as a resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Patient-centered communication is vital for the residents of any program, and your interviewers want to know that you would join their program as a great communicator. Explain your strengths in communicating both written and verbally in asking this question.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

How to Answer

Before your interview, think about your strengths when it comes to communicating. Come to your residency interviews prepared to talk about what makes you great at communicating with patients, colleagues, and support staff. More important, make sure to reiterate why solid communication skills are vital for any resident and physician.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"My communication skills focus on education and compassion. I treat every conversation with the utmost respect, no matter the nature of the communication. As a resident, I know that my colleagues and patients will expect my communications to be well thought out to give great information and to do so with compassion."

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Internal Medicine Example

In my medical training so far, I have always tried to explain medical terms as simply as possible, without a lot of jargon, to put the patient at ease and help them understand their medical conditions.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"One of my strengths is excellent communication. I believe empathetic listening is crucial for positive physician-patient interactions. In addition, good communication is important while working within the medical team."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Communication is imperative to radiology. Radiologists must accurately interpret images and formulate concise reports for clinical colleagues, all while using language that is comprehensible for patients. I have excellent writing skills but also know how to formulate clear, concise ideas rather quickly."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Communication is very important during residency, whether communicating with my patients, attendings, or peers. I do my best to approach others with an open mind, and when communicating my perspective, also take the time to hear the other person's opinions and thoughts. I like to explain my thought process to give other's a full understand, and provide the opportunity for questions so that all parties can leave feeling that we are on the same page."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"In professional or medical settings when speaking with colleagues, I try to communicate as directly and clearly as possible while not coming across as domineering. I believe that type of communication style is best for avoiding errors or misunderstandings which could lead to patient harm or mistakes in care. However, I think equally if not more important to communication is listening to the opinions or concerns of others and making sure they feel that they have been understood. Medicine is complex and there are many "right" approaches, and sometimes people make mistakes so I am always open to feedback or alternative opinions. When communicating with patients, I try to speak in clear and plain language without using medical jargon. In the Emergency Department, patients are often overwhelmed and frightened so I intentionally try to explain what is going on in a way they can understand and process."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Competency

9. As a new resident of our program, would you be able to handle patient care with little supervision?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your venture into residency will likely be the first time you work one on one with patients as the key decision-maker. Your interviewing team asks this question to ensure that you have the ability and desire to work independently as a resident.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

In your answer to this question, you need to prove your ability to work confidently with little supervision while not being overconfident. As a resident, your work with patients will be scrutinized and used as a learning opportunity, so you want to ensure that your interviewers know that you are aware of that fact. Speak with modest confidence in your ability to work with patients with little to no supervision.

Written by Rachelle Enns

Answer Example

"I feel confident in my ability to work with any patient without someone watching over my shoulder. With that said, I also want every interaction with a patient to be a learning opportunity for me, and I know your faculty has an excellent reputation for providing those opportunities to residents"

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

"As I have undertaken increasingly more independence in my patient interactions thus far, I feel that I will be able to expand on this in my residency. However, I appreciate knowing that attending physicians will be available to guide me and ensure that I am doing the correct thing for the patient."

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I have prepared for residency by completing multiple rotations in this specialty and I am ready to start residency."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am confident that my medical school training has provided a solid foundation for independent patient care. At my current level of training it is important to know when to call upon my senior colleagues and attending doctors for assistance in tough situations. I always strive to do what is best for the patient and never shy away from asking for help."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"As a new resident, I think it will be important to provide high quality care to my patients and, particularly as a resident, to practice being independent in providing care so that I am most prepared for when I am an independent physician. However, I also think it is important to be aware of my limits and gaps in knowledge. I hope to use my training to provide the best possible care and will care for my patients independently to the best of my ability, while making sure to ask for help when I need it."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"While I am excited to grow into my role as a new resident, I am also acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with it with regard to patient care. I am confident that I am ready to assume the responsibilities of being a resident under the guidance of my senior residents and attendings and know that this program has a proven method for molding fully competent and independent Emergency Medicine physicians. I know that transition to full independence won't happen on day one but I'm ready to start the process and take on this new level of responsibility and autonomy."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Conflict

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

As you venture into a medical residency, you will be handling direct patient care on your own for the first time. With this comes immense responsibility. The interviewers want to know that, if faced with an ethical dilemma or a dilemma in reporting a breach of ethics, you will do the right thing as part of their residency program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

If you were trained in medical school on taking a specific course of action, now is the time to mention that. If not, you should create your own standard for ethics issues. Be sure to ask the interview panel if they have a system for reporting ethics issues at their institution. This will show that you have aninterest in being matched to their program.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"If I see a fellow resident act unethically, I will refer to how I was trained to report ethical issues. First, I would ensure that I could identify the breach of ethics and determine the severity of the nature of the breach. If I witnessed a serious breach, I would identify the proper supervisor or faculty member who should be made aware of the breach and bring it to them as soon as possible. I have a clear set of moral values and will not turn a blind eye to any breach of ethics in the clinic or hospital from any staff member."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

If I witnessed a fellow resident acting unethically, I would first ascertain the facts of the situation. If there was actually an ethical issue, I would act in accordance with the hospital's code of ethics, and report the issue to the correct staff member.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"If I witnessed another resident acting unethically I would try to talk to them about it. Oftentimes communicating with someone directly and asking why they are doing something a certain way is an important step in understanding what is actually happening. If they are truly acting unethically, I would then bring it to the attention of my senior resident."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"A colleague acting unethically while on service simply cannot be tolerated. I would first gather the facts of the matter and approach the resident regarding the case, especially if patient care was at stake. Next, it is necessary to report the behavior to our supervisor."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"This would be a challenging situation for anyone. I would first approach my fellow resident, let them know what I had witnessed, and provide them the opportunity to inform residency leadership themselves to make amends. If my fellow resident refused to do so, I would let them know that, since I witnessed something unethical, it would be my duty to inform leadership, and I would let my program leadership know about what I had witnessed."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"As physicians, we are held to an extremely high ethical standard and I believe it is our responsibility to address issues of unethical behavior within our profession. If I saw a fellow resident acting unethically, I would first confront that person directly and ask if they understood why what they were doing was unethical in order to give that person an opportunity to reflect and learn from the situation. However, I would have no hesitation in reporting any unethical conduct to a higher authority within the physician ranks to address any unethical behavior."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Creative Thinking

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

In asking this question, your interviewers want to better understand where you feel healthcare evolve for the better. Demonstrating a forward-thinking and innovative vision in your interview will set you apart from the other candidates.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Be sure to put some thought into a question like this before your residency interviews so you are prepared to talk in an educated manner about how you feel the delivery of healthcare could improve over time. Perhaps you feel that healthcare can best evolve through more patient-centric attitudes. Maybe you think that care coordination and synergy within the administration is the fastest way to improve healthcare. Be sure to maintain a positive attitude and complete your answer by describing how you feel healthcare is currently evolving.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"One of the biggest evolutions I would like to see happen is at-home care whenever possible. Some institutions have already started to expand into home hospital patients and other services in the home, and I think there is so much more room for growth in this area. Patients in just about any situation would rather be in their own homes. As long as the monitoring tools and staff are available to help make this a reality, the sky is the limit for where this realm can go in the future."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I would like to see the cost and accessibility of health care be available to all people. Medical care costs have skyrocketed, and even people with health insurance have medications and testing that they need but cannot afford.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"As a young physician, I am eager to be involved in the evolution of the delivery of healthcare. I am interested in improving medicine to become more patient centered."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I would love to see healthcare become more accessible to patients and more streamlined. There are so many nuances and intricacies of medicine, especially regarding insurance coverage. Sometimes even physicians do not fully grasp the challenges involved in navigating our healthcare system. In alignment with the previous question, it would be great to see theranostics take off as a one-modality treatment for diseases like cancer."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Healthcare is always evolving to provide the best possible care for our patients. I hope that in the coming future, there are advances in healthcare to allow increased accessibility of care to patients in remote or rural areas. These patients often have to travel long distances or wait long periods in order to access the care that they need. I hope that there is an increase in telehealth and outreach programs so that these patients can better access the care that they need."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I think we all agree that the current model of healthcare delivery in the United States is broken and in need of drastic change. Doctors today are being asked to not only do more with less but to do better with fewer resources in terms of patient volume, satisfaction, and outcomes. Under the current system, this seems unsustainable. I hope that in the future, more physicians are actively involved in policy and administration decisions as we are the ones on the ground, face-to-face providing care to patients. Traditionally, physicians have been excluded from these types of decisions and I think that this is a large part of why physicians and patients alike are so dissatisfied with the current state of healthcare."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I would like to see healthcare delivery incorporate more technology, so it can be more accessible and patient-centric."

Rachelle's Feedback

This is a good start! One suggestion is to specify further what kind of technological developments you'd like to see in your specific focus (radiology).

Creative Thinking

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers want to know that you have done your homework on the specialty that you are interviewing for and have the wherewithal to forecast the challenges that the field is facing. They also want to see that you understand that being a Physician will come with great challenges, both now and in the future.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Before your residency interviews, be sure to study and read up as much as possible about the challenges your field will face. Discuss the challenges you foresee and speak about how you plan to succeed despite these challenges.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"There are numerous challenges I believe I will face as a family physician in the coming years. For instance, the new policy surrounding MACRA for healthcare payments, changes in the way physicians certify their sub-specialties through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), and the maintenance of certification (MOC) process. But I know that all family physicians are facing the same challenges, so I will not feel alone in that."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Internal medicine does face and will continue to face challenges. These include declining reimbursements and more paperwork and documentation requirements for patient care. It is easy to be frustrated by this, but I will try to keep in mind that the ultimate goal is to do what's best for the patient.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"One of the greatest challenges our specialty will face is continuing to provide patient centered care in the era of large medical systems. In the past, patients often saw their family doctor for many years and personally knew them. Now with so many large medical systems it has become challenging to build trust and have good continuity of care with patients."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"The greatest challenge we will face is the ever-rising cost of healthcare. It is tough to integrate cutting-edge science with superior and compassionate care, especially in a cost-effective manner."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I feel that the greatest challenge dermatology is facing in the next few years is access to life-changing medications for patients. Newly discovered biologic medications can be life-changing for patients with chronic inflammatory conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. However, these medications are expensive, and obtaining insurance coverage for them can be difficult. I feel that improving access to these medications for patients is one of the greatest challenges for the field of dermatology."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"In Emergency Medicine, I think some of the biggest risks are already making themselves clear. As the safety net of the healthcare system, overcrowded Emergency Departments worsened by ED boarding is and will continue to be a major obstacle to providing timely and high-quality care in the ED. Additionally, the growing role of Private Equity firms dictating clinical practice is a major threat not only to patient care but also to physician autonomy in the clinical setting."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Creative Thinking

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Perhaps you are well-traveled or have researched the differences in health care in other countries. This question allows the interviewers to see your personal opinion, critical thinking skills, and ability to be diplomatic.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

While there is no right or wrong answer to a question like this, it's a good idea to talk from personal experience if you can. If you can't, research this topic before your interviews so you can speak knowledgeably on the subject with your team of interviewers.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I often compare the U.S healthcare system to the system in Canada, where I grew up. I know both systems very well, and they each have pros and cons. For instance, in Canada, healthcare is mostly free, but the wait times are significantly longer than in the U.S. For that reason, many Canadian citizens travel to the U.S for surgeries, MRIs, and more. They would rather pay the financial price than wait six months for an appointment and pay the price with their health. Although there are significant differences, I believe that it is often a case of 'the grass in greener.'"

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Although I have only lived in the United States, my research taught me that many other developed countries are able to provide adequate medical care at a much lower cost. Although the quality of medical care is very high in the United States, it is not as accessible to some segments of the population.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"The U.S. Healthcare system is world renowned and excellent in many ways. However, one major difference compared to other developed countries is the lack of access to healthcare for some individuals in the U.S."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"One big difference is that the United States often spends more money on healthcare than its counterparts. For instance, the US tends to concentrate a lot of resources on geriatric and end-of-life care. Ultimately, I believe a shift towards value-based medicine could mediate these discrepancies."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Having completed some of my training in Canada, I have seen firsthand differences in the healthcare system between Canada and the U.S. The healthcare in Canada is focused on primary care and preventative medicine, which are easy to access and at minimal-to-no cost to the patient. However, for elective procedures, or non-urgent specialist care, wait times can be exceedingly long. In my experience, in the U.S., while there may be a greater cost for care to individuals, there is greater and quicker access to specialist care and many new and emerging treatments and research."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"It seems like most other developed nations have created healthcare delivery systems to make basic and primary care for their populations more affordable to individual patients without sacrificing quality of the care that is delivered. There are many studies showing improved long-term outcomes attributable to this however, many of these systems cause prolonged wait times for some care, especially for specialist services. Additionally, the United States is unique in its population size, socioeconomic demographics, aspects of ways SDOH influence overall wellness, and the fact that there are 50 state-based sets of regulations on the financing and delivery of some care. I don't think that adopting an exact copy of any other nation's healthcare system would work precisely for the United States but I think most would agree there are aspects of other plans which would improve our own."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Creative Thinking

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

This type of question is meant to start a conversation between you and the interview panel. They want to see your personal opinion, critical thinking skills, and ability to be diplomatic when it comes to hot topics.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

While this question asks for your opinion, you should avoid an offensive answer or showing a personal bias. It's best if you provide an answer that appeals to both sides while not appearing wishy-washy.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I believe that the basic concepts of socialized health care and privatized health care speak to a range of patients. Some people express 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 a potentially critical or debilitating illness. In my ideal world, a system would be put in place with the benefits of both systems."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Socialized medicine allows most people to have adequate access to medical care. The tradeoff on that is longer wait times and possibly lower quality care. Privatized health care enables higher quality care but marginalizes some segments of patients.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"This is a complicated question; both privatized and socialized health care have their merits and their shortfalls. At the end of the day, I believe everyone should have access to basic medical care."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Simply stated, my opinion is that both models are means to provide society with medical care. Each model has advantages and disadvantages for both patients and healthcare providers. My goal is to provide superior care no matter what model is adopted in our country."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I think that there are pros and cons to both systems. Socialized health care improves access to care for people across various socioeconomic backgrounds, but can result in longer wait times. Private healthcare can be quicker to access, and can allow access to expensive, state-of-the-art innovations, but often results in higher costs to patients, and can be cost prohibitive to some. Neither system is perfect, and my aim is to provide high quality care to my patients regardless of which system I am in."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I think most would agree that the United States healthcare system as it currently exists with a mix of private and government payors using different pricing and payment models is not working for the majority of Americans. I believe that people in the US deserve access to affordable, timely, and high quality basic medical care and I do think that could be achieved using both private and single payors if aspects of our current system were changed slightly. Some of those changes may include rules regarding the necessity for any care plan to offer affordable basic healthcare and preventive health coverage and downside risk for any health systems providing substandard care, as opposed to say the current Medicare Fee-For-Service model."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Diligence

15. What drives your passion for a career in medicine?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interview panel would like to understand what drives you in your pursuit of a career in medicine. Your core passion will keep you going on the toughest of days of residency, and for the panel to understand how to motivate you, they need to know what drives you.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

It is okay to share a personal story when answering this question. Perhaps you can discuss what initiated your interest in attending medical school. Whatever drives you, make sure the interviewers can feel your passion as you speak from the heart when answering this question.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"There are several factors that have always driven my passion for a career in medicine. If I had to pinpoint one main driver, I would say that saving the lives of everyday people is the most important. Everyone deserves great healthcare, and I plan to live that mantra by being the best at what I do as a physician every day. As a caregiver by nature, my patients are what will drive me every moment of every day."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Heart disease afflicts many members of my immediate family, and I know how profoundly that can affect the whole family. I am pursuing an internal medicine residency with the intention of becoming a cardiologist to help prevent and treat people who suffer from heart disease.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I am driven by the prospect of helping patients spanning all ages. During medical school some of my favorite memories were doing the little things to improve my patients' lives."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My passion for medicine, radiology in particular, stems from the fact that I believe it is the culmination of biology, chemistry, and physics. It is extraordinary how far humanity has come in terms of medical care and treatment modalities. For instance, there is a newer field within radiology called 'theranostics' which combines diagnostic imaging with therapeutic drugs. It is cutting edge."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I am passionate about a career in medicine because I am passionate about improving patients' quality of life. Good health is a basic need for patient's to be able to live their lives, enjoy time with their families, and be productive in their livelihood. I am passionate about providing care to patients so that they can have their best quality of life, and achieve their goals, dreams, and follow their passions!"

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I'm passionate about Emergency Medicine because it gives me a chance to interact and immediately help people from all walks of life who may be going through a life-threatening situation. I like being able to isolate a problem and work to fix or at least stabilize the cause in a high-stakes and fast paced environment, I also love that the Emergency Department is healthcare's safety net and that no person is ever turned away due to age, condition, or inability to pay."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Several factors drive my passion. If I had to pinpoint one, I would say that improving the lives of everyday people through empathy and compassion. Family medicine is so unique in that you can see the profound healing power of empathic human connections. A strong doctor-patient relationship can be therapeutic for a lifetime. Everyone deserves an excellent primary care physician, and I plan to live by that mantra by being the best at what I do every day."

Rachelle's Feedback

Your genuine passion for family medicine shines through. Exceptional answer - very well said.

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"I believe a career in medicine is ideal because it lets me help patients in a meaningful way, and at the same time, it is intellectually stimulating."

Rachelle's Feedback

Nice start! In a sense, this question is asking about your core interest in medicine. The interviewer wants an in-depth understanding of what motivates and drives you to pursue a career in medicine - specifically in your area of focus. I recommend digging deeper into this response to let your passion shine through truly.

Anonymous Answer

"Many factors drive my passion for Family Medicine. One factor is that Family Medicine enables me to improve the lives of people within the community I am living in through empathy, trust, and thoughtfulness. Family medicine allows one to build strong relationships with patients which creates an environment in which you can have continuity of care. Most diseases can be managed with lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy. Building a good relationship with a patient over a period can lead to better outcomes for one's patients and can equip them with the knowledge, they need to take their health into their hands."

Stephanie's Feedback

You do a great job of sharing details about careers in family medicine, but this response should be more personalized. What is it about a career in family medicine that is compelling to YOU personally? What drives your motivation for this career path? Why is working in the medical field important to you? A more personalized approach will allow your interviewer to connect with you and will illustrate your true motivations and passions.

Direct

16. Are you applying to any other residency programs?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

It is no secret that fourth-year medical students are encouraged to apply to many residency programs to better their odds of matching. This number of applications can often exceed 10. The interviewers will likely be more interested in you if they are aware that you are actively pursuing many opportunities, especially if you are a top candidate of theirs.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Talk openly about the applications you submitted, but emphasize your interest in this particular residency. Give specific reasons you want to complete your residency with this program and explain how that will benefit you in your pursuit of becoming a practicing physician in this specialty.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I am keeping an eye out and applying to several reputable anesthesiology residency programs. No matter the number of interviews I complete, I hold your program in the highest regard because of the academic and research success that your past trainees are now having in practice."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I am applying to a few other programs, but I am hoping to match at your program. I have had prior clinical experience here as a medical student, and I enjoyed working with the staff. Additionally, this program is located in my hometown and is near my family.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Yes, I am interviewing with other programs. I am eager to join a top-notch residency program and hope that to train here at your program."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Thank you for taking interest in my application and interviewing me today! I have applied to other programs generally throughout the country."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"While I am very passionate and excited about your training program, I hope to get training in dermatology and have applied to several programs to give myself the best opportunity to match to a program that will be a good fit for me. I hope that this program is the one!"

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I am applying to several Emergency Medicine programs across the country, but have been careful about applying only to those, which I could seriously see myself at as a resident. This program has been one that I have done a great deal of research on and could see myself thriving at if I'm fortunate enough to match here."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Discovery

17. What book are you currently reading?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interviewers would like to know what you choose to read in your spare time. Your favorite genre says a lot about you and the type of resident that you will be.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Speak honestly about what you are currently reading. If you aren't currently engaged in a book, talk about the one that has impacted you the most. Elaborate on why this particular book is important to you. Speak with passion to show your interviewers that learning through reading is important to you.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"Currently I am reading 'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday because it was recommended by a faculty member in my medical school. It is a book about ambition, resilience, and success. This book has helped me feel prepared to take on any challenge in residency, and I feel that every professional should read it."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I am currently reading the Pioneer Woman Cookbook by Ree Drummond. I enjoy cooking, eating, and having dinner parties in my spare time.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I am currently reading "Being Mortal" by Atul Gawande."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am actually really interested in audiobooks. Due to my busy schedule as a medical student, I have found that audiobooks allow me to enjoy my favorite novels while driving, exercising, and preparing meals. I am currently listening to Harry Potter."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I most recently read "Camino Winds" by John Grisham. I love legal dramas and mysteries, and this book has been an interesting page turner about a crime that happens in a town during a hurricane. I find mystery novels, and movies, a great way to unwind! "

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat. It's sort of a cooking-technique and cookbook plus travel/culture book all in one."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I am reading Goedel Escher bach by Hofstader. Its a book about lives and work of mathematician Kurt Godel, artist MC Escher and composer Johanne Sebastian Bach. It pertains to how mathematics, art, and music are not separate entities, but a sort of "oneness" to the universe and how cognition in thinking emerge from well-hidden neurological mechanisms.

-the overall theme is that of oneness and unity of the collective pieces that make the whole

-similar to human beings - we are not isolated specimen in a vacuum with a single gene mutation with all else equal - we are dynamic, living, breathing entities interacting with the world around us and our circumstances impact our selves in the same way that social determinants of health can play a significant role in wellness that cannot be explained by simple pathophysiology

-and I think physicians play an important role in uncovering these determinants of health

-family medicine really embodies that philosophy"

Rachelle's Feedback

This sounds like a very intriguing book and very relevant to your targeted career path. Great answer!

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"Recently, I have been reading mystery novels by Agatha Christie. Each of her stories presents with a crime and prime suspect. Christie draws the reader's attention away from the prime suspect until the reader believes that the crime was committed by someone else. I enjoy reading her mysteries because they highlight the importance of details and how the smallest detail can change the entire story."

Kevin's Feedback

This is an intriguing writing approach, indeed! Although you mention how her novels highlight the importance of details, connect the dots between how that translates to your career.

"I’ve been reading Agatha Christie’s mystery novels. Each of her stories presents a crime and prime suspect. I love how Christie draws the reader’s attention away from the prime suspect, distracting the reader to believe the crime was committed by someone else. I enjoy her mysteries because they highlight the importance of paying attention to the details. Even the smallest detail can change the entire story. I feel the same way about work. In order to perform well in your work, you have to have a high attention to detail. Every work experience is its own story, and there is import to paying attentions to the details, as they will guide the story. Miss a detail, and the outcome is different, resulting in rework, or failure. But Agatha Christie’s novels are a fun way to meditate on those points, while distracting me from the pressures of work. It;s a great way to strike a solid work/life balance for me."

Anonymous Answer

"Currently, I am reading "The One Thing" by Gary Keller. It's about the one thing you should do today to make your work easier or do away with unwanted items and help achieve your short and long term goals. I especially like the domino effect described in the book, which shows that tiny changes can fetch significant results."

Rachelle's Feedback

Fantastic response! You are detailed while offering a fun glimpse into what you have learned so far.

Anonymous Answer

"I have been reading the Laws of Human Nature. The book helps one to understand human nature, understand what drives them and their motivation. It teaches the reader to be introspective and master self-control to develop one's sense of purpose. It is an especially important book for people working in healthcare by understanding our patients' personality types and best working with people with different personalities. This enables the physician to empathize with them, thus building a better patient-centered approach to medicine as well as improving doctor-patient relationships."

Stephanie's Feedback

This sounds like a very compelling book. I suggest personalizing your response a bit by using "I statements." What has this book helped you to understand? How has it impacted you?

Discovery

18. Competition for our program is intense. What makes you a stand-out resident for our program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interviewers are looking for unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the crowd of medical students they are considering for their program. They want to hear what makes you the most unique and stand-out candidate to join their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

To stand out from the crowd of candidates, there are many things you could mention in your answer, including your passion for volunteer work, a connection to any faculty or staff there, a story of personal struggle and triumph, a unique skill set you have, or a unique degree, diploma, or certification you bring to the table. No matter how you answer, speak passionately about what makes you the best candidate for this residency program.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I believe I am the strongest candidate for your residency program because I am incredibly dedicated to my professional and personal development. Since beginning medical school, I have committed to taking a personal development workshop twice per year. The topics have included communication, interpersonal skills, multi-tasking, organization, and even persuasive writing. I plan to take these skills and apply them to this residency and my future career as a physician. Is there any reason you would not choose me?"

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I will be a stellar resident in your program because I have been working to become a well-rounded, responsible person. I undertook volunteer work, research projects, and extra jobs to gain life skills that will benefit me and my patients as I embark on my residency program.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I have a strong work ethic and exceptional ability to communicate difficult concepts in a way that is easily understood."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am an exceptionally well-rounded candidate. I have excelled academically and met multiple research milestones during medical school. I have volunteered within my community to learn more about its local patient population. I also have multiple interests outside of medicine that provide an outlet for stress. These qualities allow me to connect more deeply with my colleagues and patients."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I believe my resilience in the face of adversity helps me stand out as a candidate for your program. As a college student, I needed to pay for my own tuition and living expenses and found work as a research assistant to earn money while also gaining important skills for my application to medical school. I also worked at the museum on campus, teaching science classes to young children. While it was challenging to work two jobs while also studying challenging courses, I remained resilient and worked on my time management to ensure I could complete all my responsibilities. I believe this resilience will allow me to go the extra mile for my patients, whether trying to get insurance approval for necessary medication or connecting them with resources to ensure they get timely care."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I am unique in that I have a professional background before medical school, which I believe demonstrates I am professional, reliable, and mature enough to be an excellent resident. Additionally, my leadership in national organizations showcases my ability to be a natural leader among my peers, something I look forward to continuing as a resident at your program."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I believe that I am a strong candidate for your residency program in family medicine. Since before medical school, I have dedicated myself to reducing barriers to health for immigrants and underserved populations, and I will continue to do so throughout my career as a family physician. I will not take my duty as a physician lightly and will work diligently to keep myself up to date in the pursuit of life-long learning so that I can provide the most informed care for my patients."

Rachelle's Feedback

You make a highly compelling case! If you can, dive a bit deeper into the details of the ways you have reduced barriers to health for immigrants and underserved populations.

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"Team player: As healthcare professionals, we need to work with interdisciplinary teams in order to ensure proper care and treatment. I demonstrated teamwork by working with people of different backgrounds at various NGOs like the Red Cross Society and Rotary club.

Demonstrate Empathy: Patients find such physicians approachable and develop a bond of trust. I actively listen to the patient's concerns and acknowledge them.

I always strive to learn and share knowledge with others. During my rotation at ________s, we had a patient with ALL who developed neutropenic sepsis. I read about its management and shared the information with the team by giving a short presentation."

Amanda's Feedback

This is a strong response that you can build on. You've indicated that you're an exceptional candidate based on your ability to be a team player and demonstrate empathy. Make this answer even stronger by talking about what you actually did for the Red Cross or Rotary Club that called on your teamwork skills and give an example of a time when your ability to empathize benefited a patient or your team.

Anonymous Answer

"Besides being hardworking and having good academic records I have a certain trait that makes me a strong candidate for your program.

First, I will say I have a multilingual trait with good fluency in English, Nepali, and Hindi and that is going to gel up gracefully with the culture of the United States and thus in residency.

Second I will say my experience working in remote parts of Nepal has made me a flexible, resilient, and self-reliant person.

Third I will say my leadership quality from being captain of the cricket team during childhood, to head boy in school to different leadership position during medical school and work has refined me as a reliable leader."

Jaymie's Feedback

The program may receive a high volume of applicants with the same technical qualifications, so it's important to give an answer here that helps you stand out from the crowd. You did an excellent job choosing unique, relevant qualities and characteristics that will set you apart from other candidates. Excellent job!

Discovery

19. What would your dream job be if you could choose any?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

During your time with them, your interviewers will try to learn about your personality and personal motivators through a variety of questions. This question will allow your interviewers to hear about your passions in life and give them a better sense of what type of resident you will be and how you will mesh with the faculty and staff at the institution.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. Put some thought to this question before the start of your residency interviews and come prepared to give an answer that shows your creativity, determination, and the fun side of your personality. Focus on an answer that gives some insight into who you are.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"My dream job would be a professional golfer. While I know I don't have the skills to make this a reality, golf is one of my favorite hobbies. I am also a very competitive individual who loves to travel, and this career would allow me to compete at a high level and travel all over the world."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My dream job would be to host a medical talk show. I enjoy educating people about their medical conditions, and interacting with them. I would love to be able to reach a large audience.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"My dream job since I was young has been to become a Family Medicine physician and be able to take care of whole families at every stage of their life. Being a part of this residency would help me in realizing my dream job."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My dream job was to become a professional baseball player. Unfortunately I was never very good at it growing up and realized I enjoy taking care of others. Luckily, I found interest in science and medicine, which I think will provide a more intellectually fulfilling career."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"My dream job would be to be a dermatologist! I am genuinely so happy to be training to be a physician, I am excited to learn about medicine and to use my knowledge to help patients. I love dermatology as a doctor that cares for patient's skin conditions in a longitudinal way, developing patient relationships and helping patient's live happy, healthy lives."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"My dream job is to become an Emergency Medicine physician. As someone who has already had a career before deciding to go to medical school, I am fortunate to have the perspective of what other jobs outside of medicine are like and what I think will make me feel fulfilled both personally and professionally."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Discovery

20. What types of activities keep you busy outside of work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Because the hustle and bustle of many years of training can take their toll on any resident, having hobbies and interests outside of training is an important part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Your interviewers want to know how you will stay mentally energized throughout your time in their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Tell your interviewers about the activities that interest you outside of the classroom and workplace. Be sure to list hobbies and activities that keep you in great mental and physical shape.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I have a variety of hobbies that keep me busy outside of work hours. First, I have two children who are involved in basketball and gymnastics. I also play in a baseball beer league, volunteer at our community church, and like to read."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I stay busy with volunteer work at my local food bank, catching up with friends, relaxing on the couch with a good book, and cooking in my kitchen, I also like to exercise early in the morning.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Playing guitar and hiking are activities that I can often be found doing outside of work. I also enjoy volunteering at the local food bank."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I love to play the piano, and I am currently working on a piece by Mozart. I recently purchased a 3D printer. I love making objects on my computer with special software and then printing them out for display."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Day to day, I love to spend time with my family and with my dog. I also like to take care of my health and like to jog and explore new trails around my apartment. This allows me to clear my mind, feel connected with nature, and improves my overall health and well-being."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Outside of work you can find me on my bike, running, or trying a new recipe in the kitchen. I also enjoy puzzle and board game night and am on a mission to find the best pizza in every city I visit."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"There are a couple of things I enjoy doing. First, I like listening to people vent online. I also enjoy making pastries. There is this Nigerian snack called Puff-Puff, made with flour, yeast and sugar. I like making that. I also enjoy playing board games with friends."

Rachelle's Feedback

Perfect reply - it's so personal that I feel I was able to get to know you a little bit! Puff-Puff sounds similar to Oliebollen, which my Dutch grandmother used to make. It seems you are well rounded with some interesting hobbies.

Discovery

21. Tell us a bit about yourself.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Residency programs consider many great medical school students for their program each year. Most come with letters of recommendation, clinical experiences, and medical knowledge. When it comes time to match, sometimes tough decisions are broken by determining which students are deemed a good fit for the team of residents, faculty, and culture of the program. Giving you the open floor to talk about yourself will provide the residency program with some insight into who you are as an individual.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Take advantage of this opportunity by talking a bit about what started you on the path toward medical school and this residency training path while giving some unique insight into who you are and what you enjoy. The residency program leaders will be able to see your genuineness as you speak from the heart here. Remember that this is also an excellent opportunity to describe yourself by discussing the strengths and qualities you would bring as a new resident.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I graduated from college with a degree in biology, and medical school has always been my top priority. I have wanted to become a doctor since I was little, and it is exciting to see this dream become a reality. I am a driven, personable, hard-working, and loyal person. I study hard and take my schooling seriously, but I also value maintaining relationships with friends and family. Downtime with the people I love helps me stay grounded and relieves stress. In my free time, I like to stay active by finding new hiking trails in the area. I am excited for all the learning I have left to do and the next step in my journey to becoming a doctor."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

"I loved and succeeded in the life sciences since junior high, and my interest in medicine evolved from that. I studied biology in college and did research culminating in a master's degree in biology. Medical school is the next frontier was the next frontier on this journey, which ultimately guided me toward this career path as a physician and a future resident with your program. Internal medicine is so appealing to me because of the wide breadth of experience I will get over the next three years and the fact that I want to pursue a future practice in gastroenterology. I enjoy spending time with family and friends in my spare time. I also like exercising and reading. Baking cookies always helps me relax."

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I am dedicated, compassionate, and eager to help patients. My dream to pursue a full scope family practice is solely based off of the relationships that I will build and the lives that I will impact. I love learning and try to expose myself to new topics to expand my horizons, which I know are vital to a practice in family medicine. If I'm fortunate enough to match into your program, you'll quickly find that I'm compassionate, personable and always inquisitive to help me expand my knowledge."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am from a rural northeast town and love the outdoors. I often find myself immersed in nature when I am not studying or performing clinical duties. I also love mechanics and physics - growing up, I loved dirt biking, working on automobiles, and going for long drives. My passions and interests in mechanics and physics made radiology just a natural fit for me, because I'm very adept in the tech side of a radiology practice and will always be striving to learn and grow in this area. As well, my overall medical curiosity lends itself well to a practice where I can go from simple breast imaging to interventional procedures for a heart disease patient."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I grew up in Canada and have three younger siblings - two brothers and one sister. I attended McGill University, where I studied immunology, and subsequently went to the University of Toronto for medical school. During my studies, I developed an interest in dermatology and skin cancer and undertook a research fellowship to investigate new therapies for skin cancers. I enjoy spending time with my family and playing with my dog in my spare time! My respectful and compassionate nature make becoming a dermatologist such a natural fit for me and I'm excited about this opportunity to match."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I have a non-traditional background as someone who majored in International Relations and who has worked outside of the United States extensively, but I think that allows me to bring a non-traditional approach to patient interactions and patient care. I am a flexible and hard working individual, which lends itself well to a future practice in the emergency setting. In my free time, I enjoy anything outdoors regardless of season or weather, exploring new cities and foods, and spending quality time with my friends and family."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I was born and raised in Iran; since I was a child, I have always been looking for opportunities to learn and build a better version of myself which led me to go to medical school. After graduating from medical school, I worked as an emergency physician, where I got to work in a multidisciplinary setting and discovered my passion for radiology. Thereafter I decided to move to the US to expand my knowledge in the field and was fortunate to join the research team at BIDMC and to work under the supervision of Dr. xxx. This experience has allowed me the opportunity to expand my knowledge of conducting research in the field while getting familiarized with the US health care system and work environment. In addition, I have had the privilege of working remotely under the supervision of Dr. xxx and exploring my passion in more depth.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy a wide variety of activates such as travelling, spending time with friends and family and activities for my personal development such as yoga which helps me to be resilient and work efficiently under pressure."

Rachelle's Feedback

You provide an excellent overview of your experiences, and I like that you discuss what fulfills you in your personal life. I suggest including information on the 'future.' I like to coach on the 'Past, Present, Future' framework. If you want to learn more about answering this common interview question, we have a guide here that you may find helpful: https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/How To Answer: Tell Me About Yourself/

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"I graduated from UCLA with a neuroscience degree, and I love neuroscience - and a lot of my undergraduate activities revolved around neurological research and afflictions of the brain.. and that's where my passions lie. I am a strong advocate of the patient-doctor relationship and the physician's role in reducing social determinants of health.

On a less academic note, I play the flute, and I practice yoga, taking care of one's health is both physical and mental.

Now I'm here and ready to begin the next chapter of my journey as a family physician."

Rachelle's Feedback

Perfection! You take your educational background, your personal interests, and tie them perfectly into how this will all = a successful journey for yourself. Bravo!

Anonymous Answer

"I graduated from college and obtained a chemistry degree. I chose this degree partly because of my love of science but also because I always dreamed of being a Medical Doctor. I felt that being a doctor will enable me to serve and give back; due to some profound experiences I had growing up in multiple countries in Africa. I saw how a lack of access to healthcare led folks within that population to suffer from treatable diseases that could have been either prevented or treated with good access to healthcare. With that experience, I saw the importance of having a family medicine doctor. I am keen on being a family medicine doctor where I will do my part in serving the community. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching and playing soccer. Soccer taught me that every member of the team had a specific job to perform using a unique skill set, and team success was only achievable through strong leadership, collaborations, and trust. Those skills are useful within a healthcare setting as well."

Stephanie's Feedback

This is a well-rounded, thorough response. You do a great job of showcasing who you are, both personally and professionally.

Anonymous Answer

"I grew up in Ohio and spent a lot of time with my family camping and enjoying nature. I studied pre-medicine and psychology at ***, as a first-generation college student I used my resilience and internal drive to pursue my dream of being a physician. I explored my interest in medicine by volunteering at the local children's hospital and internationally with a global health course. I attended medical school at ***. During medical school, my interest has included wilderness medicine, education, and caring for underserved patients. My future plans for emergency medicine are to further develop these interests in medical education and wilderness medicine."

Stephanie's Feedback

This is a thorough and well-rounded response that captures the essence of who you are, both personally and professionally. You do a great job of showing your interview committee the essence of who you are as an individual and what drew you to a career in medicine.

Anonymous Answer

"I was born and raised in India. Born in a family of doctors, becoming a physician and carrying forward the legacy has always been a dream for me. I was able to accomplish it with hard work, resilience, and family support. I always wanted to pursue a residency in the US as the training program is one of the best in the world. My interest further solidified after doing rotations as I developed insight into how the residency program works. In my free time, I like to do gardening. We have a small kitchen garden at home where we grow vegetables. I also like to play Table Tennis and won many prizes in my med school."

Amanda's Feedback

I really like that you've responded in a balanced way. You've shared some background that applies to the role you're pursuing as well as personal information that gives the interviewer more insight into your personality. Make this answer even more impactful by relating how your work ethic and resilience enabled you to get where you are. Were there obstacles you had to overcome?

Anonymous Answer

"I am an international medical graduate. I was born and raised in a rural part of a small country called Nepal. Being born close to the Indian border I was able to experience different languages and cultures and that helped me to broaden my perspective of life. I come from a small family with my parent, wife, and younger brother.

My interest in medicine started to develop during my childhood when my father was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. As the illness crippled my father, I was there to watch his misery and suffering. But with the appropriate treatment and compassion from one of the modest doctors, he was able to recover. This served as the catalyst that motivated me to pursue a career in the field of medicine.

I got lucky to crack the MBBS entrance exam provided by the Ministry of Education to study medicine under full scholarship, which is considered one of the toughest exams in Nepal. Following graduation, I worked in private and public hospitals mostly in resource-limited settings. I have rotated around various hospitals and clinics in the USA, which has helped me get familiar with their healthcare system.

Just a little about myself outside of academics. I am the kind of person who loves to play and watch cricket. I do love watching movies and web series especially related to science fiction. I have recently developed an interest in cooking. That is all about me."

Jaymie's Feedback

Excellent! You gave a balanced overview of what attracted you to healthcare, your journey into the field, and personal insights.

View This Question and Answers

Discovery

22. What strengths you would bring to our program as a resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Every year, your group of interviewers interview and consider a large pool of great applicants for their program. Asking a question about your strengths gives you the opportunity to give your best sales pitch, so to take advantage of it.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Your strengths should allow you to understand the needs of your patient and work effectively as part of a large care team. Skills that help you overcome difficult situations or accomplish challenging tasks are also great. Before your interview, pick your top two or three strengths to discuss during your interview. If you are looking for ideas, some great strengths to talk about are your communication skills, collaboration skills, loyalty, flexibility, determination, and eagerness to learn.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"My greatest strengths include my attention to detail and ability to focus. I am observant and a natural listener. This allows me to slow down enough to listen to my patients and colleagues. I pick up on small details and devote my attention to whatever I am doing in the present. Even when I have other things going on, I can hone in on the task at hand and devote my full attention to each patient so they receive the care they deserve. I feel that these strengths will enable me to be a confident and successful resident with your program."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My strengths include being conscientious and a team player. I plan to utilize both of these qualities to take excellent care of patients and become an excellent physician.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"As a resident in your program, I would bring my strong work ethic. In addition, I am a great team player eager to provide the best medical care to patients by collaborating with my colleagues and other members of the medical team."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I believe that I work well in a team environment. This means attentively listening to others' opinions, providing constructive criticism when warranted, and supporting teammates during challenging times. I also have a great bedside manner, which is important in gaining patient trust and allowing the patient to participate in his or her own medical care."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"My strengths include my resilience in the face of challenges, and my determination to grow and improve myself. Having faced setbacks and challenges in my thus far, I have always taken the time to examine my weaknesses and improve so that I may be more successful in the future. I hope that this will make me a strong resident who will be determined to learn and improve myself to provide excellent patient care. I know that residency can be tough, with long hours, more responsibility, and lots to learn, and I hope to be an asset to my program to be a great resident who continues to learn and grow despite any challenges that come my way."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I am a fast learner, work well under pressure, and actively seek out feedback in order to improve every day. I also have a strong record of leadership in my previous professional career as well as with national organizations during medical school and look forward to continuing to participate as a leader within the program I match with."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Based on my previous clinical and research experiences, I have proven my ability to make wise decisions in critical situations that benefit patients. I am also a team player. My colleagues know me as a hard worker and flexible person. I am an excellent communicator which allows me to build strong relationships with my patients and colleagues. In addition, I am very persistent, determined, and detail-oriented. I have a strong desire to improve my knowledge and skills which makes me an excellent trainee."

Kevin's Feedback

It sounds like you have several strengths you feel benefit your work. Your confidence shines through, but you haven;t yet successfully convinced your interviewer of the positive impact your strengths benefit your residency. Elaborate on your answer by using some leadership terms.

"I think fast on my feet and am resourceful. I make sure I am fully versed in how to take full advantage of all the tools at my disposal. This way, I can make critical decisions fast. If I don’t have everything I need at my fingertips, I am an outside-of-the-box thinker, and truly believe in the adage, where there is a will, there is a way. Sometime this requires collaboration, a team effort. Your team is the most valuable tool in your kit. So I place a lot of emphasis on relationship building with my teams. Beyond that, I work hard and fast, maintaining a positive outlook at all times. So I often set the pace. But the most important tool one has at their disposal is solid, above average communication skills. I consider myself an excellent communicator. In addition, I am very persistent, determined, and detail-oriented. I take advantage of every learning opportunity to expand my knowledge and skill set. So, in short, the skills I’d bring with me are my great attitude, my excellent verbal and written communication skills, my ability to think outside the box and being a resourceful person. I have above average interpersonal skills, especially when it comes to team building and enhancing work relations, and taking every opportunity to stay up to date with the developments in my field. As I see it, these are all translatable skills. There may be others who share in these traits, but these of some of what sets me apart from the hoard."

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"1-I like interacting with people and learning more, and building a solid relationship

2-determined and persistent

3-excellent level of physical dexterity"

Chad's Feedback

This answer is off to a good start! To strengthen your response and ensure your answer highlights how you stand apart from other applicants, discuss how each of your strengths will help you to be successful during your residency. If you would like to read about approaches to answering this question, you can find an article here: https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/How to Answer: What Are Your Greatest Strengths?/

Discovery

23. What is your personal mission statement?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Most people have never put thought into a question like this, and not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra that tells others who they are. As a prospective resident and future physician, this is an important question to ponder before your residency interviews because your interviewers will want to hear that you have a focused, patient-centered mission statement that defines the kind of resident you will be.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

If you have a personal mission statement that you developed during medical school, that is great! If so, be sure to openly share it with your interviewers, and make sure it explains why you are interested in pursuing a practice in medicine following residency. But chances are you don't have a well-defined personal mission statement. If this is the case, develop one, and be sure you can recite it before the start of your residency interviews.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"My mantra is 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel it is incredibly important to be a humble caretaker, and I would take this mission statement very seriously as a resident in your program. I'd rather have my team to be in the spotlight than be the kind of physician that takes credit for all of the good work. I'm confident that this value also reflects positively on the patients I care for."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My personal motto is to treat others as you would want to be treated, This holds true for daily random interactions, and especially with medical care. I strive to treat patients the way I would want to be cared for, in terms of quality and compassion of care.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"To leave everything I interact with better than when I found it. I think we all have a duty to make our world a better place, and that can be as simple as making someone's day a little bit better or improving an organization's ability to meet its mission during your time there."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"To provide excellent empathic care to all patients with respect and without judgement. I strive to care for each patient as if he or she were a member of my immediate family. When times get tough or I become tired, these ideals keep me focused on my calling as a physician."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I would say that my personal statement is to bring my very best to everything I do, and constantly try to improve myself, so that I can provide the best care to my patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"To strive for clarity, intention, and passion in my thoughts, words, and actions."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

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 Feedback

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

Discovery

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Having hobbies and interests outside of work or school is an important part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance during residency training. Your interviewers want to get to know you a bit better as a person. They also want to know that you will be able to strike a healthy balance during your time training with them.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Talk openly and honestly to the interviewers about the activities that interest you outside of the medical field. As you answer, talk about how these activities will be important in your life as a resident in their program to help keep you happy, healthy, and refreshed during your training.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I have a variety of hobbies that kept me busy outside of school hours during my undergraduate program and medical school. I volunteer at the local children's hospital. I also play in indoor and outdoor volleyball leagues and like to read fiction. During residency, staying active outside of training would be a priority for me to stay healthy in both body and mind."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My interests outside of medicine help me recharge my batteries. These include exercise, such as walking or jogging, reading fiction like Robin Cook or James Patterson, and listening to Motown music from my beloved hometown of Detroit.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I enjoy playing the guitar, hiking and traveling. I have found that doing these things helps me to lead a more balanced life."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I love studying film and shooting photography. I recently purchased my own camera and love to take photos of nature. My favorite movie series is Lord of the Rings."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I love to spend time with my family and with my dog! I also love to travel and explore new places. Something new that I have recently learned is how to scuba dive, which has given me the opportunity to explore even more new things when I travel."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I love an adventure so any sort of international travel, new cuisine, or new sport is fun to me. When I want to feel more relaxed I enjoy a nice puzzle or board game night with my friends or family."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Discovery

25. Are you willing to relocate for your residency?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

To better the odds of matching with a great program, most medical students will apply to residency programs all over the country. As they consider your application, your interviewers want to know that you are serious when it comes to your willingness to relocate away from current friends and family and put your full focus on training in their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

The goal when answering this question is to assure the interviewer that relocating will not be a problem for you. If it's a challenging relocation for you, but you are willing to do it, explain your willingness to move for the sake of joining this program. Don't hesitate to talk about your personal or family situation and the support you have to pursue this dream of yours.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"Yes, I am willing to relocate for my residency. The right fit is the most important factor to me. I researched this city and region, and I can see myself thriving here personally. I can easily pick up and go where I am needed because my family is fully supportive of my decision to pursue this career."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I am willing to relocate for my residency because obtaining excellent training is my career goal and an investment in my future. I am a low maintenance person and feel I could adapt to the new environment easily.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Yes, I am willing and excited to experience a new area. I appreciate that your residency program is located in an area where I can take care of underserved patients."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My goal as a resident is to become an excellent radiologist. If that means relocating to a different city, then I would gladly do so. I believe your institution would provide the best training possible."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Yes! For me, the most important thing is to get a strong training in dermatology. I would be happy to move to train at a strong program where I would be a good fit. "

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Yes, I am seeking a program that is the right "fit" for me and have no geographical limitations on where that may be. I am excited by the idea of having a new place to call home and exploring a new area."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I am willing to relocate for residency. I believe life is a journey of new experiences, each of which teaches me to become a better person, and in this case, a better physician."

Rachelle's Feedback

Very well said! This is a strong answer.

Discovery

26. Describe your personality to us in three words.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers pose this question for two reasons. First, they want some insight into the personality that you would bring to their residency program to get a feel for how you will fit in with the program. They'll also want to hear how you view yourself. Notice they do not ask how others would describe you, but how YOU would describe yourself.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Since you only have three words, make sure that the words that you use will make a lasting impact on your interviewers. Some possible words to use are adaptable, brave, compassionate, respectful, helpful, positive, thoughtful, or versatile. As you prepare for a question like this, be creative to avoid giving the same answer other candidates give. Explain your reasons for choosing these words to describe yourself.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"If I could describe my personality to you in three words, I would say that I am thoughtful, intelligent, and friendly. My personality is well suited for a healthcare-focused environment as my patients will find me approachable and trustworthy."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Compassionate, conscientious, and complicated.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Empathetic, goal-oriented, hard-working."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Intellectual. Respectful. Motivated."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Determined, enthusiastic, funny."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Passionate, Determined, Curious."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"If I could describe my personality in 3 words, I would say calm, adaptable, and goal-oriented. During my days as a junior resident in the ER at a hospital, we were severely understaffed that day, and we had almost 25 patients waiting in the triage area. I was nearing the end of my shift, but I realized that the two residents and the attendant would have a tough time managing patients. So I took it upon myself to streamline the triage, screen patients right there, and get only those patients who needed immediate attention and treated those who I could in the triage itself."

Rachelle's Feedback

This is a wonderful example of your biggest personality traits. This answer speaks so much to your character and dedication in the workplace.

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Anonymous Answer

"If I could describe my personality in three words, I would say that I am empathetic, thoughtful, and calm. My character is well-suited to family medicine because my patients will find me approachable. My style will foster the therapeutic patient-doctor relationship that is vital to family medicine."

Rachelle's Feedback

Very well said! These are must-have qualities.

Anonymous Answer

"I would describe my personality as adaptable, calm, and a team player. Our medical school uses a variety of clinical sites in the community, this has allowed me to become comfortable adapting to a new location and team every few weeks."

Stephanie's Feedback

You share three very positive personality traits: adaptable, calm, and a team player. However, I suggest providing more details in your response about exactly how you show these traits at work. You mention the clinical site in the community and how you've learned adaptability, but how do you show your calm nature during stressful situations, and what makes you a team player? A few additional details to back up the three traits you mentioned will improve the impact of your response.

Anonymous Answer

"Friendly

intelligent

determined"

Chad's Feedback

Great! These are desirable qualities for any healthcare professional to possess. Ensure you also explain your answer to the interviewer. I recommend providing an example of a time when you have displayed these personality traits in the workplace.

Discovery

27. What do you wish to gain through training in our residency program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interviewers would like to better understand what your expectations are of their residency program. When your overall expectations are understood, your interviewers will have a better sense of your understanding of their program and how well you will fit in if you were to match there.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

A key to answering this question is researching the residency program and the institution itself before the interview. Some online research will quickly give you insight into the mission and values of the organization, the curriculum of the program, and where past residents have found practices post-residency. No matter how you answer, take accountability for your growth and experiences.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I hope to gain immense professional growth through strong mentorship by your great faculty and to live your mission of serving your patients and community in any way possible. I'm confident that I am a great fit to help live these values for the next three years."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I hope to gain the tools needed to become a great physician while serving a residency at your program. I intend to keep the goal of excellent patient care in mind at all times.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I hope to become an excellent primary care physician. I hope to gain enough experience in the ambulatory setting so that when I graduate, I would feel confident to practice on my own as an attending physician."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am looking for a program that offers a high case volume, expert teaching, and plentiful research opportunities. I am particularly interested in programs with independent call because this encourages more confident and expedited image interpretation. Ultimately, I feel that this program will mold me into the best patient-centered radiologist prepared to tackle both academic and private practice attending positions."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I hope to gain a broad training in dermatology, so that I may care for patients with a variety of dermatologic conditions, from common condition to complex cutaneous disease. I also hope to further my skills as a researcher and as someone who will be reading and applying research to clinical practice in the future. I hope that this training will allow me to improve my patients' quality of life by improving rashes and chronic inflammatory skin conditions, and quantity of life by detecting and treating skin cancers."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"My goal is to become a well-rounded, competent, and independent Emergency Medicine physician who can confidently handle a medical emergency anywhere, any time, happening to anyone. I know that this program will help me grow into that person and I am excited to begin my journey toward becoming that physician."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I would like to become a well-rounded radiologist who can handle any type of case. I would also like to improve my teaching, research, and leadership skills and abilities."

Rachelle's Feedback

Great! These are specific goals and certainly achievable with your dedication and hard work!

"During my residency, I would also like to improve my skills in teaching, conducting research, and hone my leadership abilities. Overall, I would like to become a well-renowned radiologist who can handle any case."

Discovery

28. If being a Physician was not an option, what career path would you have chosen?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers want to get to know each candidate a bit better personally during their interviews. This hypothetical question will give the interviewers some insight into other topics that interest you outside of the medical field.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

There is no right or wrong answer here, but be sure to think about questions like this before your residency interviews. As you answer, talk openly and honestly with your interviewers about where your career path would have ideally taken you if becoming a physician wasn't an option.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I do not regret the direction I have taken my career, and I'm looking forward to my residency training. If I were forced to start over in a new direction, I would likely pursue a career in music. I learned to play the piano at a young age and sang in a show choir in high school. I was also in a glee club during my undergraduate program. If I had gone down that path, I probably would have been a singer in a music group or gotten into music production."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

If being a physician was not an option, I would like to have been a health writer or journalist. I enjoy medical topics and enjoy educating patients on how to take better care of their health.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"If being a physician was not an option, I might have decided to be a teacher. I enjoy teaching and I believe educating the next generation is very important."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"If I could not be a physician, I would be a pilot. I think in some regards the two professions are similar. For example, the captain of a plane has a duty to serve and provide safe transportation to all those on board the aircraft. Similarly, physicians have a duty to provide care for all of their patients, from all walks of life."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I would have chosen to be an architect. I love to enjoy beautiful architecture, and the creativity that goes into it. As an architect I would hope to enjoy spaces for people to enjoy as they work or socialize and hope to better people's lives through my work."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I think I would really enjoy a career as the director of an adventure sport camp or as an adventure-based vacation tour guide. Anything that allowed me to experience new and interesting activities while meeting new people."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I certainly would not change my decision to become a physician, but if I had to pick a different path, I would like to go into a field that studies behavioral neuroscience. I am fascinated by the concept of cognitive-behavioral therapy and the power that we, as human beings, can have over our minds. I want to incorporate CBT in my practice one day."

Rachelle's Feedback

Very in-depth and interesting response. This is excellent, and you give the interviewer a lot of insight into what excites you in the medical field.

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"While I will never change my decision If being a physician was not an option, I will go into public health and policy. I believe I could make an impact here as well working to improve health care delivery to the population and community."

Stephanie's Feedback

Great response--this shows thoughtfulness and self-awareness.

Anonymous Answer

"I would definitely choose to be a teacher. I enjoy mentoring and sharing knowledge with others. So many tasks that relate to these skills are welcome. Even as a resident I will look forward to teaching medical students. During my rotation, I volunteered to give oral presentations on various topics."

Amanda's Feedback

This is a solid answer! Educating patients and others is a key part of working as a physician, and your willingness/ability to share knowledge with others is a valuable skill. Consider expanding your response to share more detail about 1-2 presentations you gave or a time when sharing knowledge or mentoring another really elevated patient care or enhanced your team's ability to work together.

Discovery

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Questions surrounding topics such as religion and politics can be tough to navigate. This particular question will likely only come up if the institution you are interviewing with has any religious affiliation, and your interviewers want to hear that you wouldn't have an issue in this environment. If the institution you are interviewing with does not have a religious affiliation, your interviewers want to see how you navigate controversial topics.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Explain to your interviewers that you are neutral and professional when it's required of you. Before your interview, thoroughly research the institution you are interviewing with so you can be sure your values align with those of the program. Keep your answer short and to the point.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"While at work, I keep my personal opinion to myself when it comes to topics of religion and /or politics. I would not have any trouble working at a religiously affiliated hospital or medical facility, so long as the religious aspect did not interfere with my ability to care for my patients."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I would be able to work at a religious institution, if need be, since the likely goals align with mine. These include treating everyone with respect and aiming for excellent and compassionate care.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I would feel comfortable working in a religiously affiliated hospital. I would strive to provide the best medical care wherever I did my residency."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I would be able to care for patients at a religiously affiliated hospital. Whether religiously affiliated or not, I will strive to provide the best possible patient care to everyone."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I would not have any difficulty, as I feel that regardless of religious affiliation, my priority is to provide high quality care to my patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I would have no problem caring for patients at a religiously affiliated hospital, so long as that affiliation did not interfere with my ability to provide appropriate medical care at my discretion as a physician."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"No, I don't believe that I would have any trouble working in a religiously affiliated hospital. My medical school is Jewish affiliated, and although I am not Jewish, I had no issues with the affiliation because, in professional settings, I keep my personal views to myself. As long as the affiliation does not interfere with patient care, I'm all for it!"

Rachelle's Feedback

Awesome response! You sound very open and have a highly professional approach.

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Anonymous Answer

"I do not have any trouble working in a religiously affiliated hospital. The standard of care and professionalism is the same regardless of whether the hospital is religiously affiliated or not."

Rachelle's Feedback

Good answer! Clear, and to the point.

Anonymous Answer

"Being a doctor, I have no religious or ethnic boundaries. For me, every person in the world is a human first, so no religious affiliation would interfere in the care I give to my patients."

Rachelle's Feedback

Very well crafted response. Bravo!

Discovery

30. As a resident with our program, how would you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Questions like this can be tricky, but it's important to realize that your interviewers want to hear how you would navigate these topics with a patient as a resident. They are not looking for your personal opinion on any controversial medical topic. Explain how you would remain tactful when controversial topics arise during your residency training.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

A straightforward answer should include how you would discuss the pros and cons of a controversial topic with a patient. You need to be clear that you would never broach any of these subjects with a patient, but rather only respond when asked.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"When it comes to controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning, I will keep my personal opinion to myself, or at the very least, remain diplomatic by expressing how each side has a right to an opinion. If prodded more by a patient, the furthest extent I would go is to discuss the medical pros and cons of each side of any controversial topic and let the patient make their own opinion."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

As a medical resident, my job is to provide the best medical care possible, according to evidence based medicine. My personal views on these topics have no role in this. A patient can express his opinion on these issues, and may do so especially if he feels comfortable with me, but I plan to remain neutral on these topics when in a professional setting.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"My goal is to provide the best care that I can to my patients and I believe personal beliefs should never stand in the way of providing excellent medical care."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"These are indeed very controversial but important topics. However, they should not and do not affect my interactions with colleagues or impact patient care. It is important to respectfully listen to others' opinions empathically and without judgement. This can be difficult sometimes."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"These topics can be challenging to address as people have differing opinions and may be passionate about their viewpoints. While I may have my own opinion, I believe especially in a professional setting, is important to try to remain impartial and to help create an inclusive and welcoming environment where people with differing views feel welcomed. I would want to ensure that all patients, regardless of their views, feel comfortable to receive their care from me, and that my colleagues feel comfortable and accepted when working with me. If it was required to express my opinion, I would do so respectfully, and ensure that it would not obstruct providing high quality care to my patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"While I consider myself a very principled person, I am also open to listening to and learning about differing viewpoints. Within a professional setting, I tend to keep my personal opinions on topics unrelated to an issue directly at hand more reserved but I have no problem voicing my opinions on topics I believe are fundamental rights in the appropriate context. I would never engage in debate on any such topics with a patient, but among colleagues making good-faith efforts to understand differing viewpoints I would be open to discussion but never an argument."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Discovery

31. Who in your life has been the biggest mentor or inspiration to you?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers want to gain some insight into the personalities and personal motivations of each candidate they talk to. This question allows your interviewers to see what has influenced you to become a life-changing physician down the road.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, or a celebrity. Talk to the interviewers about who has inspired your life and why. If possible, explain how this mentor or influence has inspired your choice to pursue a career as a physician.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. The person who has most greatly inspired me is 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. As I pursue residency training with your esteemed program, I will always try to treat my patients with the same sense of respect and care as her as much as I can."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My biggest inspiration is my junior high science teacher. I remember how fascinated I was when I first learned cell biology. My teacher believed in me and encouraged my interest in life science and then in medicine.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"My family physician that I went to for my whole life inspired me to go into medicine and has acted as a mentor in helping guide me towards a career in medicine from the time I was in high school. She not only helped make me better when I was sick, but she always encouraged me to push myself to do things I thought were impossible."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My biggest mentor has been my undergraduate organic chemistry professor. She took me under her wing while I was a freshman in college, making sure I was on-track academically and professionally to attain my goal of medical school admission. We still keep in touch and she continues to inspire me to this day."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"One of my biggest mentors was my research supervisor during my research fellowship. He was patient and thoughtful when we presented our research to him and guided us through addressing setbacks and improving our work to an even higher quality. He gave me tasks that drew on my strengths and provided focused feedback to improve my weaknesses. He was a great teacher, and wonderful and compassionate physician. He was a great inspiration for me to aim to be an academic dermatologist."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"There is an Emergency Medicine physician who I worked with a great deal during medical school who was a major influence on my decision to apply for an EM residency position. His clinical knowledge, procedural skill, and poise under pressure were so impressive to me and I try every day to be like him."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

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 Feedback

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 :)

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"I find inspiration in a variety of places and people. But I am inspired by my mother. She was involved in a serious car accident, although I was young when it happened. I remember her strength of character and the power of mindsight to recover from it. I am inspired by that because life can be hard, but it is the power of one's mind that makes you overcome any adversity."

Stephanie's Feedback

Excellent response--your mom sounds like an inspiring person! I hope she's doing better now.

Anonymous Answer

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. The person who has inspired me the most is my dad. He has served as an Internal Medicine physician in India for the past 30 years. Ever since I was a child, I used to accompany him to the orphanage which he used to visit once a month to treat patients with medical ailments. I brought up the same devotion by serving in the NGOs after graduating from med school."

Amanda's Feedback

Wonderful! Consider taking it a step further by sharing the characteristics or qualities that you admire most in your Dad. You can also talk about how he has inspired your own approach to patient care.

Anonymous Answer

"My father is my mentor. He came to this country with nothing in a small town as an only Indian person and grew to become a successful businessman despite everyone saying he would not be able to. All while making time for his family and teaching us what work ethic should look like. I try to live like him as much as possible."

Chad's Feedback

Excellent answer! Your father sounds like an inspiring individual, and the interviewer will easily understand your reasoning for choosing him as your mentor. If you are able to apply his work ethic to your residency and future career, you will undoubtedly be successful.

Education

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Every medical student has a favorite area of medicine or a subject they find fascinating. Learning more about your favorite courses, personal preferences, and professional areas of intrigue will allow the interviewers to better understand where your passion is as an incoming resident.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Come to your interview ready to talk about your favorite course in medical school. Be sure to elaborate on why it was your favorite. If you had a great professor, talk about what made them so influential. If you excelled in a particular subject, don't hesitate to brag a bit to your interviewers.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"The courses I enjoyed most in medical school were the classes and workshops where we had the opportunity to work on a cadaver. The human body is fascinating, and since I am a hands-on learner, I found cadaver-based classes to be the most informative. From my work with cadavers, I realized that pursuing a career in surgery was my true calling as a physician."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

My favorite course in medical school was microbiology. I loved looking under the microscope and seeing the different types of bacteria and learning about the properties of each one. They are so elegant and intricate, and look harmless but really aren't. The more one knows about microbiology, the more one understands many types of illnesses and how to cure them.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I really enjoyed taking Geriatrics during medical school. This class really emphasized treating our patients holistically. I have always been interested in a holistic approach to medicine."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"My favorite course during medical school was gross anatomy, particularly the musculoskeletal system. This is the definition of form meets function. Muscles, bones, and tendons are distinct entities that work in harmony to provide predictable and precise motion."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"My favorite course was immunology. I loved to learn all about the immune system, how it defends our body from a variety of pathogens, and also about how autoimmune disease developed. I also learned about the skin's essential role in immunity, and this only furthered my interest in dermatology."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"My favorite course in medical school was my 3rd year clinical rotation in the Emergency Department. From the first shift, I knew the specialty was a perfect fit for my personality and academic interests. That rotation really opened my eyes to the type of physician I could become and the work that I would get to do on a daily basis."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Education

33. How would you invest in your personal development as a resident with our program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

As a resident and eventual physician, it is important to avoid professional burnout. That means you should be aware of your personal needs and do what is necessary for your personal growth and development. Your interviewers pose this question to understand how you plan to focus on your development.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Personal development is a valuable habit and can include things like exercise, meditating, taking personal development courses/workshops, reading, mentoring others, being creative through art, or spending time traveling and exploring. However you choose to invest in your personal development, be sure to show the interviewers that you understand the importance of investing in yourself.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"It is important to invest in myself, especially with a high-stress, high-pressure job as a physician. For the last three years, I have invested in a personal coach who helps me uncover my desires and assists me in making a plan to achieve those goals. Also, I am adamant about my fitness and health. I take good care of my body because it's the only one I have. I know that I need to be a strong example to my patients as a resident as well."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

With a job as intense as a medical resident, it is vital to make time to relax and be health conscious. The time spent exercising, preparing healthy foods, and resting are an investment in the future. Having a close network of family and friends to help unwind and also to discuss various issues with is also important.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I would continue reading and learning throughout training. In addition, I would try to attend a national conference to network with other Family Medicine physicians."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"The best way to invest in myself and my education is by attending lecture regularly, asking questions, and reading a lot of cases. I believe that attending daily lecture forms the foundation of clinical knowledge. Asking questions ensures comprehension of difficult subject matter. Finally, reading a high volume of cases increases my chances of seeing rare pathology while becoming more comfortable with common conditions."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I would love to continue to pursue research in areas that interest me to further develop my research career and contribute to the scientific field. I also hope to attend conferences where I can learn about innovations in patient care, meet colleagues in my field and also share my own research and learning."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"In my prior career I learned how important it was to actively seek out feedback and not simply wait for it to be given to you. As a resident, I will continue that approach in order to improve on a shift-to-shift and day-to-day basis. I'm also looking forward o investing my free time both in areas of research I am truly passionate about and also in myself, making sure to take care of my physical and mental wellness during what I know will be extremely stressful times."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Personal care and development are very important in the medical field. Prayer and spiritual growth are two significant parts of my life that keep me grounded in who I am and who I am striving to become. Life brings challenges, and my spiritual life allows me to handle those challenges so I can help my patients who are facing their own."

Rachelle's Feedback

Beautiful response! You show a lot of wisdom and self-awareness, which will be incredibly important characteristics as you move forward in your career.

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Anonymous Answer

"Personal development is something I believe is very necessary for a high-pressure job as a physician. For me, my development comes in the form of my personal fitness and through painting."

Rachelle's Feedback

It's great that you mention how important personal development is for you. Try offering up some more details, such as what kind of things you do to keep fit, and the type of painting that you do.

Anonymous Answer

"I am studying for USMLE Step 3."

Chad's Feedback

It sounds like you are committed to continuous learning and developing yourself professionally, which is excellent! However, try to focus your response to this question on ways you are able to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy balance by giving back to yourself. The may include daily meditation, regular exercise, reading books dedicated to personal development, etc. Personal development is a very valuable habit, so be sure to show the interviewers that you understand the importance of investing in yourself.

Anonymous Answer

"Being a dental resident is a lot of responsibilities and work. It is very important to have a balanced work life. I try as much as I can to go for long walks while listening to audiobooks, and also spent time with my twin sister."

Marcie's Feedback

Nice! The interviewer will be happy to hear that you value a good life/work balance. Taking long walks, listening to audiobooks, and spending time with your twin sister are all great ways to develop yourself personally. How about taking online courses, networking, and reading books and publications related to the industry? Try to include a few ways that you'll personally enrich your life that also tie into your professional aspirations as this will impress the interviewer. Nice job!

Education

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

This question will only be important for Foreign Medical Graduates. If you are in this category, your interviewers will need to know that you already have your ECFMG certification by completing steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

If you are a foreign medical graduate, come to your residency interviews prepared to discuss the steps you have taken for the ECFMG certification. If you have any supporting paperwork, bring it with you to the interview and offer it to the interviewers. You must be prepared with an affirmative answer to this question.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"Yes, I have completed all of the ECFMG requirements and have brought the supporting paperwork with me. Would you like to take a copy?"

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I have completed the ECFMG requirements, and I have the documents available for you now.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Yes, I believe I have gone above and beyond the requirements to be successful in your residency program and am excited to start this next chapter."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Yes, I have met all the necessary requirements."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"Yes, all of my requirements are complete."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Yes, I have completed all forms and procedures required by your program."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Education

35. How would you stay on top of trends and changes in the medical industry as a resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers want to know that you will fully immerse yourself in your field as a resident. This includes keeping up to date on new trends and having a great understanding of the challenges your industry faces, both now and in the future.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Talk about a couple of your favorite resources you use to stay on top of medical industry trends. It's also a great idea to ask the interviewers if they have any fresh recommendations for you. This can start a conversation that will be helpful to you! Before your interview, be sure to look into the medical specialty-specific groups, journals, and publications in the specialty you plan to pursue in residency.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"I follow a few resources online for up-to-date information on the medical industry. My favorites right now are the medical blog, 'Uncommon Student MD,' a blog created by student doctors in medical school and residency. The other resource I read regularly is 'Health Data Management' online. I've already joined the Radiologic Society of North America. Do you have any recommendations for me? I love to learn and would appreciate knowing about any new and helpful resources in this field."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

I like to peruse The New England Journal of Medicine and Mayo Clinic Proceedings. I would be interested in forming a journal club to review new medical articles and discuss developments in the field.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"Being an excellent physician requires being a lifelong learner. I also plan on subscribing to AAFP so that I can stay updated on the latest in Family Medicine."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I am an avid reader and have a general thirst for knowledge. I subscribe to multiple podcasts and follow several radiology and medical societies on social media, which emphasize current and groundbreaking research in those fields. I plan to integrate this knowledge into my day-to-day work as a resident physician."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"There are constantly new and exciting developments in the medical field, and especially in dermatology. It is important to stay on top of these to provide great, cutting-edge care for patients. Keeping up with journals like JAAD, JAMA derm, and reading the new research can help to stay on top of these trends. As well, actively participating in conferences where new research is presented, and in grand rounds where potentially new treatments for challenge cases are discussed."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"As a medical student, I have been actively involved in several national professional Emergency Medicine organizations and had the opportunity to attend several conferences where EM colleagues presented their original research and discussed the most important issues our specialty faces. As a resident, I look forward to continuing my involvement with those organizations, presenting original research of my own, and keeping up with the latest literature and journals in our field."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I use Medscape as a resource."

Chad's Feedback

Good! Medscape is an excellent source of clinical information and resources for physicians and healthcare professionals. To strengthen this response, discuss the reasons Medscape is your preferred resource when it comes to staying on top of trends and changes in the medical industry. You may also consider asking the interviewer if they have any recommendations for you.

Experience

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

For many medical students, working with cadavers for the first time is a life-changing experience. The interviewers would like to understand what intrigued you most during your cadaver workshops in medical school to get some insight into what will drive you as a resident with their program.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

You can keep your answer brief, but be specific and express your passion for learning when you answer this question. Your interviewers ideally want to hear that you enjoyed the cadaver experience and that you can take what you learned with them into residency and your future career as a physician.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"The experience of cadaver observation and dissection is incredible. It's hard to think of just one most fascinating point! I most enjoyed exploring and discovering every skeletal muscle. The human body is amazing."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

The dissection of a cadaver afforded me a deep look into the human body that many never witness. I also was amazed and so thankful that this person had enough trust and belief in me as to donate his body to enable my training.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I felt very appreciative that someone was so kind to donate their body after death so that I could learn and help others. Their action helped propel medical knowledge forward for the next generation."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"The beauty, complexity, and mystique of neuroanatomy. I was always intrigued by the different neural pathways, how they interact, and how they form embryologically. I am excited to expand upon this knowledge as a radiology resident."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"As medical students, we were all very grateful for those that had donated their bodies so that we may learn from them, and help patients in the future. I was most interested by the intricate system of skin, muscles, and nerves that allows us to move and experience the world around us, and I hope through dermatology residency I will have the opportunity to learn about the largest organ - the skin!"

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I was most amazed that someone had been so kind as to offer the ultimate gift of their body for the advancement and betterment of medical education to total strangers. I know that such a choice was not easy to make and was likely a difficult conversation to have with their families when they reached that decision. It was extremely humbling to consider that choice during our dissection labs and I will always be grateful and appreciative of that gift from what we called our "first patient"."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I believe the way how our body is built is fascinating. When every small or big part has a function, it is there for a reason.

After I saw it for the first time a corpse, I was trying to make sense to connect anatomy with physiology."

Chad's Feedback

Great job! You've kept your answer brief and shared what intrigued you most during your cadaver workshops in medical school.

Experience

37. What EMR programs did you get experience working in as a medical student?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Technology in the medical field has been evolving and will continue to evolve year after year. As you enter residency, you will have to be prepared to work under one common EMR at the institution you match with, and your interviewers simply want to hear the experience you gained working in a variety of them during your medical school.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

How to Answer

Briefly discuss the programs you worked in as a rotating medical student and your role in the systems. As you answer, describe your ability to learn and master their program from the start. Don't hesitate to ask any questions about the program that this institution uses.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"First and foremost, I want you to know that I understand that today's physicians need to embrace technology to provide the best patient care possible. During medical school, I was fortunate to work within EPIC, Cerner, Nextech, and a couple of customized systems. I was able to learn quickly and run with any program I was introduced to. I've heard that you use EPIC system-wide; is that correct?"

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Internal Medicine Example

During my training, I have worked with Cerner, Nextgen and eClinicalWorks. They each have their strengths and weaknesses. These various EMRs have taught me to catch on quickly and adapt to different ways of organizing medical information.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"During medical school, I gained experience working with Epic and PowerChart."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I have experience working with Epic, PowerChart, as well as the electronic medical record used in the veteran hospital system."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"As a medical student, I worked with a few different EMRs including Epic and Cerner. I am a quick learner, and can readily adapt to different systems, and am confident I would quickly be familiar with the EMR that is used at your hospital system."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"During medical school I rotated at different sites using Cerner, Vista (at the VA), and several hospitals on different Epic systems. Although each was different and imperfect in their own ways, I eventually became comfortable with using them on my clinical rotations."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Experience

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

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewers will be looking for the ideal candidates that have a passion for the specialty they want to pursue training in. This is a conversational-based question intended to get to know you a little bit better and the types of cases that you find to be the most interesting.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Before your residency interview, think of what you consider the most intriguing and thought-provoking case you worked on in medical school. The cases that are most interesting to you should pertain to the specialty you want to pursue. As you answer, take a few minutes to set the stage for the case, name a couple of points that intrigued you the most, and talk about why. If you know the outcome of the case, discuss that briefly as well.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"The most intriguing case I was exposed to during medical school was a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder in an elderly victim of a brutal crime following the loss of her spouse. Over time, the patient was moved to an assisted living facility and continued to develop severe psychotic symptoms and paranoia. The patient suffered from hallucinations and was moved to a psychiatric unit for further observation. A neuroleptic drug was finally prescribed and began to improve the patient's mental well-being."

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Internal Medicine Example

The most interesting case I saw in my medical school training was a young woman who was in multisystem organ failure from severe pancreatitis. She languished in the ICU on a ventilator for months with minimal improvement. The case manager brought the intensive care doctor to the ethics committee, arguing for comfort care measures. The ICU doctor felt the patient would improve. She ended up waking up and waving us goodbye on her way to inpatient rehab.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I had an interesting case where I was working with a Family Medicine physician who discovered that a patient had cancer during a routine office visit. This solidified the power Family Medicine doctors have to be able to impact patients' lives."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"I was involved in the delivery of a baby boy during my first year as a medical student. By chance, I happened to see this child multiple times in the pediatric clinic during my later clinical rotations. I was able to see firsthand how this little boy met his milestones and developed into a fun toddler. It was an amazing feeling to watch this child grow, knowing that I participated in his and his family's care."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"One of the most interesting cases was a patient with a chronic hand rash that had bothered him for many years. After numerous treatments were trialed without success, and multiple biopsies that were non-specific, a later biopsy revealed a diagnosis of cutaneous lymphoma. Following initiation of lymphoma treatment, the patient's rash drastically improved. It highlighted for me the role of a dermatologist in providing longitudinal care to patients and in diligently and determinedly searching for a diagnosis when it may be quite challenging. I was also in awe of how significant a quality of life improvement dermatologic care could make for patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"The most interesting case I saw as a medical student was in the Emergency Department and involved a woman who had been labeled as a "frequent flyer". She would always come in with vague complaints and receive broad workups which were essentially benign. Finally, one time, instead of brushing off her complaints as the "usual problems" a resident took time to sit down and talk with the woman about her personal life and what was bothering her outside of her stated issues. She found out that in addition to having housing insecurity, the woman was in an abusive relationship with a partner which she had previously been reluctant to admit. She was ultimately able to help that patient obtain social services and safe shelter and I think that was a great example of how sometimes a patient has issues that are deeper than we can see and that we as EM physicians need to take time to understand our patients as people in order to truly help them."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"A 28-year-old female housewife came to us with the complaint of low-grade fever for 1 month. It was insidious in onset, not associated with rigors and chills, and relieved by medication. 4 to 5 days from the onset of fever, she started developing progressive weakness in all four limbs. She was having difficulty in walking, combing, and drinking a glass of water. But there was no sensory loss. In the next few days, she started developing swelling in the bilateral upper limb which progressed to the back of the neck. There was no periorbital or facial edema and no shortness of breath. Her urine output decreased but she was not having burning micturition or abdominal discomfort. She had no past medical or surgical history. No history of allergy. On examination, she was afebrile and her vitals were normal. Examination revealed bilateral upper limb soft tissue swelling, swelling on the back of the neck. Mild erythema and tenderness were also present but there was no crepitus. On neurological examination, cranial nerve and sensory system examination were normal but power was decreased to 3/5 in B/L LL and 2/5 in B/L UL. DTR was negative in all four limbs.

Labs revealed increased TLC (26000), Hyponatremia of 119, and increased BUN/creatinine. Urine examination showed increased RBC and pus cells. So, this patient with Areflexic quadriparesis without sensory and bladder bowel involvement developed subcutaneous edema with AKI and urosepsis, and dys-electrolytemia. Myopathy being one of the differentials, we sent CPK and LDH which came out to be elevated. Muscle biopsy was performed and pt was started on IV methylprednisolone. Subcutaneous edema and weakness improved after initiating steroids. Fever, TLC normalized after 6-7 days of antibiotic coverage. However, on day 10, she started developing dysphagia. We passed Ryle's tube and were started on plasmapheresis on the advice of neurology. Muscle biopsy results confirmed polymyositis. She was discharged oral prednisolone 30 mg."

Amanda's Feedback

You've done an excellent job explaining your most interesting case in detail. However, you can strengthen this response further by relating why it was so interesting to you. Was it the most complicated case you've seen? Was her final diagnosis rare? How did this case challenge you? Did it inspire you to collaborate with others to find needed answers?

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"When I was posted in the intensive care unit, there was a 40-year old male from the hilly region of Nepal who presented to the emergency with altered mental status, nausea, and vomiting and the patient's party gave a history of consumption of 50 grams of wild honey.

Lab review showed elevated creatinine from baseline and mild leukocytosis.

He was started on vasopressor and other supportive measures. He was diagnosed with a condition called Mad Honey disease.

Later I found that it is a rare condition that is seen in Nepal and some parts of Turkey."

Jaymie's Feedback

That is a very interesting case to share with the interviewer!

Stress

39. Practicing as a Physician is an incredibly stressful and demanding career. How will you manage the high amounts of stress that are a part of being a resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Physicians are known to have a high amount of stress and burnout due to the overall nature of the work. You need to be aware that the time demands and pressure situations can lead to fatigue and little sleep. Your interviews want to hear about your plan to handle the high amounts of stress during your residency.

Written by Rachelle Enns

How to Answer

Explain to your interviewers that you have the tools to keep your mind, body, and spirit in the best shape possible to learn and grow every day during residency training. Some great things to talk about are your ability to maintain perspective, use your downtime to recharge, and come to each shift prepared for the challenges that you'll face.

Written by Ryan Brunner on February 12th, 2022

Answer Example

"When I am under pressure, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Keeping to a deadline is helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress. I know that I will be facing the most grueling four years of my life in residency. I plan to utilize my free time wisely by doing what is necessary to recharge my mind and rest my body. Some ways I like to do this are playing golf, hiking with my dog, and reading."

Written by Rachelle Enns

Internal Medicine Example

Dealing with the stress of residency will be easier with a supportive family behind me. They will ensure that I stop and rest, make sure that I eat every so often, and serve as a good sounding board for any stressful situations that may arise.
Taking "me" time is also a necessity, including eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly. Taking a nap also works wonders!

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"One thing I do to manage stress is to do daily meditations and try to take some time no matter how busy I may be to check in with myself, breathe, and focus on what's important. I believe this will be helpful during residency training."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Everyone experiences stress, as it is a natural reaction. I manage stress by trying to compartmentalize my work life and personal life. This means that when I am not in the hospital caring for patients or studying, I am spending time with friends and family, exercising, and performing my favorite hobbies."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I think personal wellness is incredibly important, not only for managing stress, but also for being the most productive I can be. I have found that mindfulness meditation can be an incredible tool for managing stress and have been incorporating this into my days throughout medical school. I also find that spending time with friends and family, whether getting advice or discussing challenges, or simply enjoying a nice evening with them, can be very helpful to my wellbeing."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"I like to use a combination of physical activity and meditation to deal with stress. That could be anything from a 30 mile bike ride, a nice walk on a sunny day, or sometimes yoga. I also really like to cook in my spare time and find it quite relaxing. There is something I enjoy about the process and methodical preparation and addition of ingredients culminating in a delicious dish that is extremely satisfying and relaxing."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"Planning is an important tool in handling stress. Whenever stressful situations arise, I start by prioritizing the work. Next, I communicate with my colleagues and try to seek help. At last, I think about methods how to avoid it from happening in the future.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were short of hospital beds and oxygen supplies. When I gathered data, I noticed some patients didn't require hospitalization. They could be managed with home isolation. With the help of fellow colleagues, I helped establish COVID-19 triage stations at the healthcare facilities so that sick patients were not devoid of care and asymptomatic patients were managed at home. I also contacted a few NGOs that helped us to make isolation centers at various community halls and helped us raise funds for oxygen cylinders."

Amanda's Feedback

Terrific! You've used an applicable example to illustrate how you take initiative to problem solve and function well in a high-stress situation. You can make this answer even more insightful by talking about any tools or strategies you use to prioritize competing needs such as calendar or reminder applications and how stress can sometimes serve as a catalyst that helps you work with more precision and innovation.

Teamwork

40. How will you work effectively and collaboratively as part of a larger care team as a resident with our program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Coming out of medical school and into residency training, you need to be prepared to step in and be the ultimate team player with faculty, fellow residents, and all members of the larger care team. The interviewers want assurance that you would join their residency program as a team player, regardless of personality or work style differences. They'll also want to hear that you will be a natural leader.

Written by Christine Pasqueretta on February 1st, 2023

How to Answer

The goal of your response is to describe your approach to collaborating with others while highlighting how your collaboration style will be a good match for the residency program you are interviewing with. Highlight your leadership skills, communication skills, listening skills, and the respect you show for others in a working environment. If you have examples of times you've proven to be a team player, don't hesitate to bring them up.

Written by Rachelle Enns

Answer Example

"During medical school, I learned how important teamwork is in a clinic or hospital setting. I intend to bring my top-notch communication skills to your residency program. I maintain open lines of communication with my colleagues and support staff. On a busy unit, there can be a hundred things happening at once, and the only way for the team to keep abreast of everything is through communication. I'm also excited to come to your program and take charge of a care team. You'll quickly find that people typically work well with my leadership style. I listen to ideas from everyone, show respect for everyone I work with, and don't hesitate to grab the bull by the horns when needed."

Written by Christine Pasqueretta on February 1st, 2023

Internal Medicine Example

Working as part of a team is easy if everyone keeps in mind that the ultimate goal is to do what's best for the patient. Certainly, each colleague has her own tasks and responsibilities, but if something has to be done for the patient, a good team player steps in to do it as needed if the patient requires it.

Written by Dr. Shani Saks on November 4th, 2022

Family Medicine Example

"I am eager to be a great team member. I recognize that medicine is a team sport and that working well in an interdisciplinary team is key to delivering excellent patient care."

Written by Dr. Griswold on November 5th, 2022

Radiology Example

"Listening is an important skill needed to work effectively and function as part of a team. This ensures that my colleagues feel valued and my patients know that they are participating in their medical care."

Written by Dr. Rodman on February 1st, 2023

Dermatology Example

"I believe that providing well-rounded care with the multidisciplinary team, including nurses, social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and all other members of the team is essential. I have loved to work with my colleagues from multiple backgrounds throughout medical school so that we may collaborate with one another to deliver high quality care to our patients."

Written by Dr. Yumeen on December 19th, 2022

Emergency Medicine Example

"Emergency Medicine is a team sport and for any given clinical issue each member has an important role. As the physician, I look forward to directing that team but I also understand that being a good leader means listening to the input of others and relying on them to provide their expert opinion or care. The most successful teams I have seen and been a part of in Emergency Medicine have been multidisciplinary and collaborative, with each person having the ability to give input on medical decisions and the autonomy to carry out their roles."

Written by Dr. Smith on December 31st, 2022