How to Answer: Competition for our program is intense. What makes you a stand-out resident for our program?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Residency job interview.
28. 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
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
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
Anonymous Answer
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
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
First, I am multilingual with good fluency in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, which aligns perfectly with the diversity of the culture of the US and thus in residency.
Second, in my experience living and volunteering abroad. I learned to overcome adversity, making me flexible, resilient, and self-reliant, and building self-awareness and adaptability.
Third, my background as a restaurant general manager has helped me develop strong interpersonal and leadership skills and work well as a team member. For example, I oversaw team performance and handled conflicts with a positive attitude. It required fast thinking and quick solutions, whether faced with a dissatisfied customer, delayed deliveries, or an inventory or staff shortage. That has refined me as a reliable leader."
Jaymie's Feedback
Considerations for Improvement. Consider explicitly connecting each strength to how it will benefit you in the medical field and contribute to your success as a resident. For instance, how do your leadership and interpersonal skills translate to effective patient care or teamwork in a clinical setting?