"This is a great question! If I had to narrow myself and my personality down to three words, I would say I'm collaborative, optimistic, and competitive. From a young age, I knew that healthcare was a field I wanted to pursue, and my ability to work effectively and lead others as part of a team was a big reason for pursuing my MD. Others around me have always been drawn to my positive outlook on things, and I found this to be a great trait to have as a general surgeon in training. My competitiveness has always driven me to be the best I can be at what I do. I've found it to push me in the research realms, which I hope to continue to do as a surgical critical care fellow with your program."

Since you only have three words, make sure the words you use will make a lasting impact on your interviewers after the interview process ends and the match process begins. If you need some things to consider before your surgical critical care fellowship interview, some possible answers that apply to this niche subspecialty include adaptable, brave, compassionate, respectful, helpful, positive, thoughtful, and versatile. As you prepare for a question like this, avoid giving the same answer other candidates give. Explain your reasons for choosing these words to describe yourself.