Residency Interview
Questions

6. Describe your personality to us in 3 words. The interviewers would like some insight into how you view yourself, and your personality. Notice they are not asking how others would describe you; but how YOU would describe yourself. Here are some great personality focused descriptive words that will help you to stand out. - Adaptable - Brave - Compassionate - Dynamic - Exuberant - Friendly - Generous - Helpful - Intelligent - Kind - Optimistic - Polite - Rational - Sincere - Thoughtful - Understanding - Versatile - Witty Avoid giving the same usual answer that everyone else will! Also, be sure to explain your answer to the interviewers. Here is an answer example: "If I could describe my personality to you in 3 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 to be approachable, with a mind that they care rely on, and a character that they can trust."7. What is your opinion on socialized health care versus privatized health care? This is the type of question meant to start up a conversation between yourself and the interview panel. They want to see a bit of your personal opinion, your critical thinking skills and your ability to be diplomatic when it comes to hot topics. Avoid any offensive answers! It's best if you can bring an answer that appeals to both sides while not appearing wishy-washy. Here is an answer example: "I believe that the basic concepts of socialized health care and privatized health care are good by nature, and speak to a range of patients. Some of my patients have expressed their love for socialized health care because, although they pay a higher tax rate, they are not caught in an expensive whirlwind when they face illness. Privatized health care on the other hand can offer significantly shorter wait times which is very important for those with potentially critical or debilitating illness. I believe it is important to have options for both so that people can choose."8. Are you willing to relocate for your residency? The interviewers want to know that you are serious when it comes to your willingness to relocate for this residency. The goal when answering this question is to assure the interviewer that having you relocate for this residency will not be a headache for them. If it's a challenging relocation for you, but you are willing to do it, be sure that the interviewers feel it is a simple decision for you, regardless. Here is an answer example: "Yes, I am absolutely willing to relocate for my residency. For me, the right fit is the most important factor. I can easily pick up and go where I am needed."9. How do you invest in your personal development? As a physician it is very important that you avoid professional burnout. Part of that means you should have a beat on your personal needs. Talk to the interviewers about how you are able to maintain a healthy balance by giving back to yourself. Personal development is a very valuable habit and can include things like: - A regular yoga practice - A daily meditation practice - Attending courses and workshops for personal development - Reading books dedicated to personal development - Spending time with a mentor - Spending time being creative - Taking on a fitness challenge - Practicing gratitude - Building a bucket list and crossing items off However you choose to invest in your personal development, be sure to show the interviewers that you understand the importance of investing in yourself. Here is an answer example: "It is very important to invest in myself, especially with a high-stress, high-pressure job as a physician. For the last 3 years I have invested in a personal coach who helps me to uncover my personal desires, and assists me in making a plan to achieve those goals. Also, I am adamant about my personal fitness and health. I take good care of my body because it's the only one I have. I need to be a strong example to my patients as well."10. Who in your life mentors, or inspires you? Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewers about who has inspired your life and why. Here is an answer example: "I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."11. What are your plans, after completing our residency program? The interview panel would like to know if you plan to stay with their facility after your residency is complete, or if you have other plans. There is no right or wrong answer here, and if you do not entirely know, it is okay to express that you are still considering your options. The important thing to remember is that you do not want to shut the door on any potential future opportunities. If you want to stay with their facility after completing your residency: "After completing your residency program, I would be very interested in being considered for a spot as a...(chief resident, fellowship trainee, or faculty member)." If you plan to relocate or obtain employment elsewhere after completing your residency: "As of right now, I would plan to relocate closer to my parents once my residency is complete. However; I am always open to discussing other options should there be an opportunity for me here once my residency is complete." If you are unsure of your post-residency plans: "I do not have specific plans in place, post-residency. My goal is to solely focus on succeeding in my residency program over the next few years. I am confident that as time goes on, I will land where I am meant to be." Here is an answer example: "After completing your residency program, I would be very interested in being considered for a spot as a...(chief resident, fellowship trainee, or faculty member)."12. Have you completed all ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) requirements, to start a residency? This question will only be important for Foreign Medical Graduates. If this is you, it is important that you are prepared with an affirmative answer to this question. If you have any supporting paperwork, you should bring that with you to the interview and offer it to the interviewers. Here is an 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?"13. Competition for this space is strong. What makes you a stand-out resident for our program? The interviewers are looking for unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the crowd. Put yourself in their position. You are looking at multiple talented candidates, all have stellar grades, all have drive, and all have potential. What would be the primary reason to choose YOU over everyone else? Some things that make you a stand out candidate: - Recent volunteer work - An existing connection to the faculty or facility - A memorable and personal story of struggle and triumph - An unusual skill such as speaking multiple languages, or knowing sign language - An additional degree, diploma, or certification - Proof that you continually focus on personal and professional development - Asking for the position! Here is an 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, person-ability, multi-tasking, organization, and even persuasive writing. I plan to take these skills and apply them to this residency. Is there any reason why you would not choose me? I really want to be here for my residency."14. While attending medical school, what was your favorite course? Why? Learning more about your favorite courses, personal preferences, and professional areas of intrigue will allow the interviewers to better understand where your passion is, in the broad spec of the medical industry. Perhaps you had a really great professor in a particular course or you excelled in a certain area! Briefly discuss what it was, and be sure to explain why. Here is an answer example: "The courses that I enjoyed most in medical school were any classes and workshops where we had the opportunity to work on our own cadaver. The human body is fascinating and since I am a hands-on learner, I found cadaver based classes to be the most informative."15. While attending medical school, what fascinated you most about your cadaver? The interviewers would like to understand what intrigued you the most during your cadaver workshops in medical school. You can keep your answer brief but be specific and be sure to express your passion for learning when you answer this question. Here is an answer example: "The experience of cadaver observation and dissection is absolutely incredible. It's hard to think of just one most fascinating point! If I had to choose, I would say that the most fascinating is the exploring and discovery of every skeletal muscle. The human body is amazing."16. What would you do if you witnessed a fellow resident acting unethically? The interviewers want to know that, if faced with an ethical dilemma or a dilemma in reporting a breach of ethics, that you will do the right thing. If, in medical school, you were trained on taking a specific course of action - now is the time to recite 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, in their facility. Here is an answer example: "If I see a fellow resident act unethically, I will refer to how I was trained on reporting ethical issues. The steps are as follows: 1. Identify the breach of ethics. 2. Apply the code of conduct or code of ethics to ensure that it truly is an ethical dilemma. 3. Determine the nature of the ethical dilemma. 4. Identify the trusted supervisor who should be made aware of the ethical breach. 5. Implement the course of action. ...Rest assured, I have a very clear set of moral values and will not turn a blind eye to any breach of ethics in the workplace."17. What are you reading right now? Do you feed your mind on a regular basis? What kind of literature do you prefer and why? Talk to the interviewer about a book that you are currently reading. If you are not currently reading a book - talk about one that has impacted you the most. Here is an answer example: "Currently I am reading 'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday. It is a book about ambition, resilience and success. I feel that every professional should read it - it comes highly recommended."18. What is your personal mission statement? Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In the workplace, especially when entering a role in healthcare, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you, or a saying that you grew up with that really resonates with you? Here is an answer example: "My personal mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble caretaker and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of physician that takes credit for all of the good work."19. How do you handle stress on the job? Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace. Here is an answer example: "I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."20. Do you have any questions for me? Before your interview, make sure you conduct research on the company and thoroughly review the job description for any clarification you may need on the position. Asking intelligent questions demonstrates to the interviewer your level of interest in their company, and the position. If for some reason you are not prepared for the interview, and you need to think of questions off the top of your head, ask questions regarding company culture, traits they are looking for in the ideal candidate, and if there is anything not listed on the job description that this position will be in charge of. Typically, pay is not discussed during phone interviews, so avoid asking any compensation related questions in the phone interview. Here are some sample questions: - When would you like to have this position filled? - How long has this role been vacant? - Is this a replacement search or a newly created role? - What is your favorite part about working here? - What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months? - Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you? - What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years? - Is there any reason why you would not move me to the next stage of interviews? Here is an answer example: 21. What are your strengths? Which personal strengths make you excellent at your job? Strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand patients needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewers about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in the medical field. Some great strengths to mention are: - Communicative - Loyal - Collaborative - Tech Savvy - Flexible in Schedule/Availability - Persistent and Determined - Eager for Knowledge/New Skills Here is an answer example: "I think my strengths are in my perceptiveness and ability to be observant of the needs of others. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent performer in high pressure, patient facing situations."22. 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? If you are able to successfully pass a criminal record check and/or education verification: "Yes, I am happy to comply with any background checks required. My record is clean." If you are not able to successfully pass a criminal record check and/or education verification, you want to be very upfront about that: "You are welcome to conduct a background check on me. I will disclose upfront that I have a DUI on my record from 2009. This does not affect my ability to perform my work duties and I no longer have any restrictions on my drivers' license." Here is an answer example: "Yes, I am happy to comply with any background checks required. My record is clean."23. Are you applying for any other jobs? It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if the are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far. Here is an answer example: "I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."24. Who has inspired you in your life and why? Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why. Here is an answer example: "I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."25. Tell me about yourself. When an interviewer asks an open ended question like this, it can be difficult to know where to begin...and end! This question haunts many individuals who may accidentally go a little too in depth into their personal lives. It happens. Keep your reply light, and work relevant. Share how you became interested in this career path and what you enjoy about it. This is a great opportunity to describe yourself by discussing the strengths and qualities that you bring. Here is an answer example: "I am a competitive individual who is driven and likes to win. In addition to my successful sales career, I also spend time playing competitive sports. I give back by volunteering at the local animal shelter and working for a variety of annual fundraisers in our community."26. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take? A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. If you could do anything over, what would you do, and why? Here is an answer example: "I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to completely start over in a new direction I would likely pursue my Degree in Education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that related to these skills, are very welcome."27. What types of activities keep you busy, outside of work? Having hobbies and interests outside of work is a very important part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Talk to the interviewer about the activities that interest you outside of the workplace. Here is an answer example: "I have a variety of hobbies that keep me busy outside of work hours. First, I have 2 children who are involved in basketball and gymnastics. I also play on a baseball beer league, I volunteer at our community church and like to read."28. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work? Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. When you work in the medical field, those setbacks can be amplified. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace. Here is an answer example: "Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a patient. I understand that setbacks happen often, and to everyone - despite their level of expertise or years of experience. If I experience a major setback 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. People need me to recover quickly so that I can concentrate on the next case."29. What do you believe is the greatest challenge your specialty will face in the next few years? The interviewers want to see that you understand being a Physician will come with great challenges. You will often face situations that are out of your control, and there will be times you feel that your hands are tied because of policy or the actions of others. Discuss the challenges you foresee and speak a bit about how you plan to succeed despite these challenges. Here is an answer example: "There are numerous challenges I believe that I will face as a family physician, over the next few 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’s (ABIM), as well as the maintenance of certification (MOC) process. One factor that will help me to forge through is the fact that all family physicians are facing the same challenges so I will not feel alone in that."30. Is there anything we haven't covered, that you would like to ask? Before your residency interview, make sure you conduct research on the company and thoroughly review the program description for any clarification you may need on the residency position. Asking intelligent questions demonstrates to the interviewers your level of interest in their facility, and their residency program. If for some reason you are not prepared for the interview, and you need to think of questions off the top of your head, ask questions regarding their culture, traits they are looking for in the ideal candidate, and if there is anything not listed on the role description that this position will be in charge of. Here are some sample questions: - When would you like to have this position filled? - What is your favorite part about working here? - What is the facility's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months? - Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you? - What do you see as the biggest challenge facing this facility in the next 12 months? - Is there any reason why you would not move me to the next stage of interviews? Here is an answer example: 31. Being a Physician is an incredibly stressful and demanding career. How do you manage high amounts of stress? The interviewers would like to know if you are able to handle high amounts of stress at work. Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewers about your ability to manage pressure while remaining professional. Here is an answer example: "I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."32. How do you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning? Questions like this can be tricky! Be sure to take note of the wording here as the interviewers are looking to see how you navigate controversial topics versus directly asking your opinion on these topics. This is the time to discuss how you remain tactful when controversial topics arise. Here is an answer example: "When it comes to controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning I will certainly give my opinions more freely in a social setting with friend versus a workplace setting or around patients. If at work, I try to keep my personal opinion to myself or at the very least - remain diplomatic by expressing how each side has a right to an opinion."33. Are you applying to any other residency programs? It always puts a little bit of fire under the interviewers if they are aware that you are actively in the market. Talk about your current search but make sure to emphasize your interest in this particular residency. Give specific reasons why you want to complete your residency with them. Here is an answer example: "I am keeping an eye out for viable residency programs. Although I am not in final stages with any other facility, I am eager to land a residency very soon. What intrigues me most about your particular program is X, Y, and Z..."34. We would like to know you on a more personal level. Outside of medicine, what are your interests? Having hobbies and interests outside of work or school is a very important part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Talk to the interviewers about the activities that interest you outside of the medical field. Here is an answer example: "I have a variety of hobbies that keep me busy outside of work hours. I volunteer at the local children's hospital. Also, I play on a baseball beer league, and like to read non-fiction books."35. What do you see as the biggest difference between the U.S healthcare system and that of another developed country? Perhaps you are well traveled or have conducted some type of research on the differences in health care in certain countries. This question is meant to start up a conversation between yourself and the interview panel. They want to see a bit of your personal opinion, your critical thinking skills and your ability to be diplomatic. It's a good idea to talk from personal experience, if you can. Here is an answer example: "I can best compare the U.S healthcare system to the system in Canada, where I grew up. I know both systems very well and can say that they each have their pro's and their con's. For instance, in Canada, healthcare is free for the most part 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, MRI's and more. They would rather pay the financial price, than wait 6 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'."36. Why did you choose your particular specialty? There are many specialities that you can choose and there is no right or wrong answer here. The interviewers simply want to see that you have some direction and clarity when it comes to your path in the medical field. Talk about your reasoning behind the speciality that you have chosen. Feel free to add a personal touch to your answer as well. This always helps the interviewers to relate to you as an individual, and makes for a memorable conversation. Here is an answer example: "I chose a speciality in Pediatrics because that medical path holds a special place for me. Growing up, my younger brother had a heart condition. Our family was in and out of the children's hospital on a regular basis. I will never forget the kindness and empathy extended to our family from the pediatric physicians, specialists, and other faculty members. I always knew that I wanted to be a doctor and that particular experience truly molded my path."37. How would you like to see the delivery of healthcare evolve? The interviewers want to better understand where you feel healthcare could most evolve. Perhaps you feel that healthcare can best evolve through more patient-centric attitudes. Maybe you think that care coordination and synergy within administration is the fastest way to improving healthcare. Whatever your answer, be sure to maintain a hopeful stance and complete your answer by describing how you feel healthcare is currently evolving. Here is an answer example: "I would like to see health based organizations and facilities put more efforts into putting their patients at the center of everything that they do. This could mean cutting down wait times, improving safety in hospitals, and even engaging with the community more often so there is a greater level of trust and comfort-ability. I do believe that we are evolving at a fast rate and I am happy to see how far this patient-centric attitude has come since I started medical school."38. What do you wish to gain through this residency program? The interviewers would like to better understand what your expectations are of their residency program. When expectations are understood, that is when they can be met. Your answer will help the interview panel to better understand if you are a fit for their facility. Keep your answer open and be sure to take accountability for your growth as well. Here is an answer example: "The majority of achievements that I hope to gain during my residency are goals that I need to drive internally. As far as expectations of this residency goes, I hope to gain immense professional growth through strong mentorship."39. What drives your passion for a career in medicine? The interview panel would like to understand what drives you in your medical career. Your core passion is what will keep you going on the toughest of days. For the panel to understand how to motivate you, they need to know what fires you up! It is okay to share a personal story when answering this question. Perhaps you can discuss what initiated your interested in attending medical school to begin with. Whatever drives you, make sure the interviewers can feel your passion! Here is an answer example: "There are a number of factors that drive 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, every day."