List of 39 Residency Interview Questions & Answers
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1.
Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?
How to Answer
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.
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Anonymous Answer
"My mother is my biggest inspiration. She is one of the most hard-working and dedicated persons I have known in my life. She has always been my greatest supporter, and regardless of how tired she may be, she takes the time to listen to those around her. She sees the best in others and encourages them to be their best regardless of the challenges and expectations the world brings."
Rachelle's Answer
Your mother sounds like a wonderful person! If you take these qualities and apply them to your approach with patients, you will make a big difference in the lives of many. Nicely said :)
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2.
Tell us about the most interesting case you were exposed to while attending medical school.
How to Answer
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.
Generally speaking, the cases that are most interesting to you will likely be to do with the specialty you are looking for.
Think about the most impressionable case that you have worked on. 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. -
3.
What drives your passion for a career in medicine?
How to Answer
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!
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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 Answer
Your genuine passion for family medicine shines through. Exceptional answer - very well said.
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"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 Answer
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.
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4.
Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
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/
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"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 Answer
Perfection! You take your educational background, your personal interests, and tie them perfectly into how this will all = a successful journey for yourself. Bravo!
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5.
Would you have any trouble working with a religiously affiliated hospital or medical facility?
How to Answer
Questions surrounding topics such as religion and politics can be tough to navigate! The interviewers want to see how you navigate controversial topics. This is the time to discuss that you are neutral and professional whenever it's required of you. You can keep your answer basic and to the point.
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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 Answer
Awesome response! You sound very open and have a highly professional approach.
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"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 Answer
Good answer! Clear, and to the point.
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"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 Answer
Very well crafted response. Bravo!
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6.
If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
How to Answer
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?
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7.
Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
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.
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8.
What types of activities keep you busy, outside of work?
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
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.
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9.
What are your strengths?
How to Answer
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
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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."
Rachelle's Answer
Very well said! You have many stellar strengths that will benefit you, your patients, and your colleagues. Your confidence shines through, and it's great that you mention the ways your strengths will create an impact during your residency and beyond.
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10.
How would you like to see the delivery of healthcare evolve?
How to Answer
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.
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Anonymous Answer
"I would like to see healthcare delivery incorporate more technology, so it can be more accessible and patient-centric."
Rachelle's Answer
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).
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11.
Describe your personality to us in 3 words.
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
Very well said! These are must-have qualities.
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"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 Answer
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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12.
How do you invest in your personal development?
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
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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"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 Answer
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.
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13.
What would you do if you witnessed a fellow resident acting unethically?
How to Answer
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.
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14.
Have you completed all ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) requirements, to start a residency?
How to Answer
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.
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15.
When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
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.
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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."
Rachelle's Answer
You do a fantastic job personalizing your response in a way that is professional, detailed, and allows the interviewer to get to know you better. Nicely done! If you have a specific example of a time when you suffered a setback and bounced back, this question may also be an excellent opportunity to give a story-based instance of a 'time when.'
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"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 Answer
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.
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16.
What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
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?
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Anonymous Answer
"Always focus on the present. Whatever you do in the present will shape what your future looks like. So make the best use of "now"."
Rachelle's Answer
Wonderful mission statement! It seems that you are a true go-getter with a great deal of focus :)
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17.
What book are you currently reading?
How to Answer
The interviewers would like to know what you choose to read about in your spare time. Your favorite type of genre can tell a lot about you! 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.
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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 Answer
This sounds like a very intriguing book and very relevant to your targeted career path. Great answer!
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"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."
Rachelle's Answer
This is an intriguing writing approach, indeed! If there is any way to connect the dots between mystery novels and what you are aiming to achieve in your career, be sure to do so.
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"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 Answer
Fantastic response! You are detailed while offering a fun glimpse into what you have learned so far.
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18.
How do you stay on top of trends and changes in the medical industry?
How to Answer
The interviewers want to be assured that you fully immerse yourself in the healthcare industry. This includes keeping up to date on new trends, and having a great understanding of the challenges your industry faces now, and in the future. Talk about a couple of your favorite resources when it comes to staying 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 great conversation that will be helpful to you!
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19.
If being a Physician was not an option, what career path would you choose?
How to Answer
This hypothetical question will give the interviewers some insight into other topics that interest you. There is no right or wrong answer here! If you could do everything over, what would you do, and why?
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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 Answer
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.
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20.
What is your opinion on socialized health care versus privatized health care?
How to Answer
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.
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21.
Are you willing to relocate for your residency?
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
Very well said! This is a strong answer.
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22.
Competition for this space is strong. What makes you a stand-out resident for our program?
How to Answer
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!
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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 Answer
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.
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23.
What are your plans, after completing our residency program?
How to Answer
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.'
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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 Answer
Excellent! You have a clear direction, which the interviewer should appreciate hearing.
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24.
While attending medical school, what fascinated you most about your cadaver?
How to Answer
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.
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25.
While attending medical school, what was your favorite course? Why?
How to Answer
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.
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26.
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?
How to Answer
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.
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27.
Who has inspired you in your life and why?
How to Answer
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.
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Anonymous Answer
"A lot of people and things have inspired me over the years, even people I have never spoken to, or just from things I watch. What I would say these inspirations have in common is persistence. People who just never give up. An example would be my mother, who earned her PhD at age 54, after almost 10 years of battling with it. Also, her ability to learn a new language at 25 and actually teach and earn an income with it."
Rachelle's Answer
Persistence is an incredibly strong trait and certainly one to admire in others. It sounds as though your mother is an incredibly smart and determined person. At the end of your response, it might be nice to mention one specific difference these lessons in persistence have had on your career-related pursuits.
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"An author and motivational speaker who helped me to discover the world inside myself."
Rachelle's Answer
Good start! Of course, the interviewer will have some follow up questions such as, 'who is this individual?' or 'what are the greatest lessons you have learned from them?' For that reason, I recommend giving this information upfront vs. delivering a mysterious answer that leaves your interviewer wanting more :)
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28.
What are you reading right now?
How to Answer
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.
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29.
Do you have any questions for me?
How to Answer
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.
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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 Answer
Terrific questions! The answers to these queries should give you a great deal of helpful insight into the facility.
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30.
How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
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.
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Anonymous Answer
"Everyone handles stressful situations differently. For me, I realize that there are two ways to react to stress: either let it consume you or take action to amend the situation. For me, I choose the latter. After my best friend in high school committed suicide, I realized I couldn’t cry her back to life – I decided to try to take preventative action for the future by leading suicide prevention watches at my school. I am personally leading my own life in a way that instills empathy and hopefully reduces the impact of latent emotional suffering in whomever I encounter."
Rachelle's Answer
This is a beautiful and heartfelt answer. Any interviewer should appreciate how you handle stress and hardship.
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31.
What do you wish to gain through this residency program?
How to Answer
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.
Answer Example
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1 Community Answer
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 Answer
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."
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32.
Why did you choose your particular specialty?
How to Answer
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.
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33.
What do you see as the biggest difference between the U.S healthcare system and that of another developed country?
How to Answer
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.
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34.
We would like to know you on a more personal level. Outside of medicine, what are your interests?
How to Answer
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.
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35.
Are you applying to any other residency programs?
How to Answer
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.
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36.
How do you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning?
How to Answer
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.
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37.
Being a Physician is an incredibly stressful and demanding career. How do you manage high amounts of stress?
How to Answer
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.
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38.
Is there anything we haven't covered that you would like to ask?
How to Answer
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.
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39.
What do you believe is the greatest challenge your specialty will face in the next few years?
How to Answer
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.
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