Tell us about a time you had to work with new technology during medical school or residency training. What did you do to ensure proficiency as quickly as possible?
Technology in the medical field has been evolving and will continue to evolve year after year, especially in the world of surgery. While you may be academically gifted, your interviewers need to know that you can pick up and master any new technologies in Surgical Oncology care during your time with them. During your General Surgery residency training, you were likely exposed to new techniques and technology in surgical care, and your interviewers want to hear that you were able to pick up and master them.
Think of a time you had to learn new technology and choose an example that proves your ability to study, learn, and master its use in short order. Then, tell your interviewing team that you know you will be learning a new EMR and other medical equipment during your Surgical Oncology fellowship training and are willing and ready to be a great learner of any new technologies thrown your way during your time with them.
"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. I've always been enamored by great technological advancements in healthcare. During my General Surgery residency training, I feel very fortunate to have been part of a program that included a robotic curriculum and got to work hands-on with a da Vinci system. The training was in-depth and intense, but I was able to perform several successful procedures on it."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
In _______, we collaborated for 3 years with a startup that develops 3D reconstruction and augmented reality. I have been always fascinated by new technology so I spent quite some time with them trying the new imaging system and asking them questions about the d software. We are still in contact, sometimes I asked them questions about new developments they're making.
Jaymie's Feedback
Your answer provides the interviewer with the specific technology that you used, your interest in it, and your ability to explore and ask questions as you learned. Well done!
Anonymous Answer
During a surgical oncology elective rotation in BC, I had the opportunity to use the new Molli Seed technology for breast cancer surgery. Thankfully I was made aware of this opportunity ahead of time which allowed me to research the equipment and orient myself to its use. Prior to the case I also took the opportunity to speak with the reps who were available to questions for further education. When the time came to use it, I was actually able to teach the attending some things regarding its use. In a career that is constantly changing with new/novel therapies, techniques, and technology it is important to seek these opportunities and training to maintain an innovative approach to surgical oncology.
Jaymie's Feedback
Great example! Your response shows that you took initiative to learn on your own and to be proactive, and your response also shows your open-mindedness toward new technology and advancements.
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