30 Urology Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Urology Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Behavioral Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Conflict Questions
- 6. Critical Thinking Questions
- 7. Diligence Questions
- 8. Direct Questions
- 9. Discovery Questions
- 10. Education Questions
- 11. Experience Questions
- 12. Leadership Questions
- 13. Scenario Based Questions
- 14. Stress Questions
Behavioral
1. Talk about a difficult patient experience during your medical school rotations. How did you handle the situation professionally and respectfully?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You have had the opportunity to work with patients in many settings. This likely has included challenging patients. This question allows your interviewers to assess the patience, communication, conflict resolution, and stress management skills you would bring to their team as a new urology resident in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Talk about a simple scenario you experienced during medical school, and don't spend too much time describing the details of the patient's story. Instead, spend your time describing your thoughts and actions. Your answer should demonstrate your ability to remain calm, patient, empathetic, and logical while helping the patient to the best of your abilities. Explain that you are aware you will often be working with patients in pain and dealing with embarrassing situations and would come to their program willing and ready to work through any issues with your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"During a rotation in an outpatient clinic setting in my third year of medical school, my preceptor had a new consult with a patient who became very rude and belligerent when we started discussing his obesity and ways to help him lose weight. I watched my preceptor sit calmly and listen to the patient. She immediately apologized to him and said she had his best interest in mind. She went on to provide more education to him at the moment. During his next follow-up appointment, I was allowed to continue educating the patient and recommend a consultation with a dietician. He agreed to see them the following week."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Behavioral
2. Tell us about a time you received constructive criticism from a faculty member or preceptor during your medical school training. How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your work will be scrutinized to the highest degree by the senior residents and the faculty of the program you join. Your interviewers want to know that you can take constructive criticism and turn it into a positive learning opportunity.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Choose an example that does not highlight a significant or persistent deficit in your ability to provide care. How you handled this criticism should show your devotion to providing optimal care and your willingness to use constructive criticism to shape how you approach patient care moving forward. Don't hesitate to reiterate to your interviewers that you would join their urology residency program ready to accept any constructive criticism that would come your way.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Looking back on my medical school training, constructive feedback from faculty during classroom learning, labs, and clinical rotations was common because of the many new situations. My approach was to always keep an open mind, listen and learn. During a family practice rotation last year, my preceptor let me take the lead for a day with patients. It was a busy day in the clinic with no breaks in between patients. At the end of the day, my preceptor sat me down to stress the importance of taking my time and not rushing through patients to get to the next. While I was worried about waiting time backing up, she helped refocus my efforts on taking time to provide education to patients at the moment. This was an important lesson to learn, and I will remember it during my urology residency training."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
That being said, the influence of criticism frequently depends on the individual delivering it.
In my current program, whenever I make a mistake, my chair doesn't just point out where I went wrong but also offers constructive feedback, providing valuable insights on how to improve. I consider these lessons to be incredibly beneficial for my personal and professional growth.
Yet, in my PGY2, my chief, who was not fond of me, frequently critiqued me, and I struggled to accept his feedback. It took time for me to digest his criticisms, discern my role in those situations, and eventually strive for a resolution."
Jaymie's Feedback
The phrase "who was not fond of me" could be misinterpreted as subjective or emotional. Consider framing it more objectively, focusing on the professional aspects of the relationship. Overall, it's a strong response, and addressing this one area for minor improvement would make it even more effective.
Behavioral
3. Tell us about a time you had to work with new technology during medical school training. What did you do to ensure proficiency as quickly as possible?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Technology in the medical field has been evolving and will continue to evolve year after year in the field of urology. While you may be academically gifted, your interviewers need to know that you can pick up and master new technologies in urologic care during your time with them. During your urology residency training, you will likely work with many pieces of equipment you haven't had the opportunity to in the past.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
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 residency training and are willing and ready to be a great learner of any new technologies thrown your way during your time with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I want you to know that I understand that today's urologists need to embrace technology to provide the best patient care possible. I've always been enamored by great technological advancements in medicine. During my medical school rotations in surgery, I got great exposure to robotic surgery techniques and caught on quickly. I learn best by watching first and then working hands-on with a mentor. As a resident of your program, I'm very excited to learn cryosurgery, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic surgery technologies, and I don't feel intimidated at all by this prospect."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Career Goals
4. Do you have any ideas about what you want your future practice to look like?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Urologists have a wide range of practice options, from general community practices to focused academic practices. They also can subspecialize in many different areas of urology. To get a feel for how you would like to customize your training during your time with their program, your interviewers want to hear what your ideal practice will look like when you finish your residency training.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
As a prospective urology resident, speak openly and from the heart as you describe your ideal future practice. Your interviewers will not be biased based on your answer, but they expect to hear that you have at least some sort of ideal scenario for yourself and a plan for how your training will help you achieve that.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"From the day I started preparing for medical school, community medicine has always been my passion. In my dream practice, I will be a part of a large hospital group in a more rural area where I can have a good mix of clinic coverage and procedures. I also have a passion for clinical trials and would love to be a part of trials for prostate treatment one day. From what I've learned today, I'm confident that your program will prepare me to be a well-rounded community urologist."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Career Goals
5. Following urology residency training, do you have any plans to pursue additional fellowship training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Graduating urology residents have many options upon exiting the program, including going directly into practice or pursuing one of many advanced fellowship training programs. Your interviewers ask this question to get a feel for your future career goals and how you will look to shape your training path in the later years of their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
First and foremost, there is no right or wrong answer to a question like this. However, you want to show that you have thought about your future career path as you answer. Research the advanced urology fellowships available and discuss any that may interest you. If you are unsure at this point, that is okay as well. If that is the case, reiterate that you will take the coming years to learn your niche as a resident with this program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'd like to end up in a large academic center, so my initial career interests focus on cancers and transplants. I have been exploring fellowships in urologic oncology and kidney/pancreas transplant, but I'm fully aware that I'll learn more about the field and myself in the coming years during residency training and may learn more about where I want my career path to go."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Communication
6. As a resident in training, how will you explain a complex urologic diagnosis, procedure, or other medical term to a patient?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers want a team of urology residents who can be world-class educators. Later in your residency training, you will be responsible for educating patients and junior residents. A question like this allows your interviewers to see how you would handle educating a patient on a complex diagnosis or procedure using only verbal dialogue.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Healthcare is increasingly complex, so it makes sense that the instructions can be as well. This question provides a chance to showcase your ability to take a complicated idea and explain it without dumbing it down. Explain your step-by-step approach to ensure your audience understands the complex subject.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"In the digital health world, I know that patients today are inundated with written messages and materials, so what we say as physicians should be prime real estate. Because of that, I always strive to speak in a way that the patient or family can understand without filler or fluff words. I fully understand that I will be relied upon to educate patients as a urology resident, and I'm very excited to do this. During my clinical rotations in medical school, I was taught to take a simplistic and step-by-step approach with patient and their family. I would stop along the way and ask them to repeat what I'm teaching them and use language and terms that best suited their educational level and understanding."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Compatibility
7. At our institution, you will work with Advanced Practice Providers as a urology resident. Would you have any issues doing so?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Over the years, there has been some hesitation for physicians to work alongside nurse practitioners and physician assistants in their practice. But the reality is that most large institutions have made the financial decision to employ and use more APPs in practice. Your interviewers need to know that you are comfortable training in this situation. They hope their urology residents will be great team players alongside nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Your answer to this question can be a pretty short and sweet 'no,' you wouldn't have any issues working closely with APP staff while training during urology residency. To further solidify your response to this question, highlight some of the positive aspects that NPs and PAs can bring to a practice.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"No issue at all for me. I'd be excited to work alongside and learn from your great team of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants. They greatly improve patient access, which is a benefit to all. They are also very knowledgeable about procedures and can be a second set of eyes in many situations. Can you talk a bit about their scope of practice here at your institution?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Compatibility
8. Is there a personality type that you find difficult to work effectively with?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In urology residency training, you will work with a diverse group of residents and faculty, each with a unique personality and work style. Some of the people you will work alongside will have personalities that clash with yours. Your interviewers ask this question to understand your ability to work with even the most challenging personalities.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
When answering this question, it is best to pick a quality that doesn't reflect poorly on you. Talking about demanding personalities may make you seem lazy or unable to work with demanding faculty at the program you are interviewing with. Instead, choose a quality that prevents the ability of even the most competent and hard-working doctors from delivering high-quality care or working as part of a high-functioning team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am most often challenged by people who can't find joy at the moment. As simple as it sounds, I went into medicine because I'm passionate about it and can find joy in the most stressful situations because I know my work is helping to better someone's life. While I don't suspect that I will encounter this often as a urology resident, my approach would be to talk with the person I found to be in a negative mood to help brighten the moment and their day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Compatibility
9. Would you have any concerns about relocating to join our urology residency program and living in this city for the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every year, graduating medical students compete to match into a wide array of residency programs across the country. This includes urology programs. As you are likely applying to and interviewing with many different programs, your interviewers need to know that you are willing and ready to relocate for their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
If you have lived or visited the city or adjacent cities, you should mention this. If you know anyone there, talk about the good things they have told you. If it is an unfamiliar city/region, pick traits unique to the city that intrigue you and explain why an applicant may be open to living in the area. Make your interviewers understand that you have done your homework on the city/region and can see yourself thriving there.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have traveled to the west coast and southern California a few times with my family to visit cousins and loved visiting the area. I would not have any concerns about living here for five years to train with your amazing program. I look forward to soaking in the sun, playing nine holes on the weekends, and even learning to surf for some adventure."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Compatibility
10. What aspects of our urology residency program interest you most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a question asked by most urology residency programs to understand what specifically interests you about their program. Since the curriculum, culture, and faculty can vary between programs across the country, your interviewers need to be assured that their program is a match for you, and candidates that show passion and interest often get ranked near the top of the match list.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Think about two or three features of this program that interest you and how the program can help you achieve your personal goals. Before your interview, thoroughly research the program. More often than not, you can find great information on the program's website. This can include the mission/values of the program and institution, the curriculum, and where alumni go after their residency training.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"The major appeal of your program is the year dedicated to research that I get to design. I want to be in an academic practice following residency training and plan to dive heavily into research and publishing during my training here. I also love that your prior residents have gone on to have productive and thriving careers at some of the top academic institutions throughout the country."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Compatibility
11. Have you put any thought into where you would like to focus your research efforts as a urology resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Engaging in research activities is a vital part of most urology residency programs, with some dedicating an entire year to research. With this question, your interviewers hope you have at least started thinking about the research activities you want to pursue during residency training.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your urology residency interview, consider the types of research you'd like to pursue as a resident. While your research path can take many directions, your interviewers want to hear that you are interested in poster presentations, abstract submissions, and publishing during your training as a resident in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"One of the primary reasons I'm interested in your program is your strong commitment to providing research opportunities and mentorship to your urology residents. I'm interested in pursuing translational research and clinical trials in bladder cancer and kidney stones. I love to hear that your past residents have gone on to very successful academic careers in publishing and as clinician investigators."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Conflict
12. How would you deal with a disagreement among another urology resident or senior resident as a trainee with our program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Given that you will be in the program for five or six years, you will work with a dynamic and diverse team of residents, and disagreements are inevitable. Your team of interviewers wants to know that you would join their program with the ability to be respectful and diplomatic when you face a conflict with your immediate colleagues.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
For a colleague disagreement, you should go to your senior on the team. In the case of a conflict with your senior, you should go to the chief resident. If there is a significant and imminent risk of harm to the patient, you should go to the attending physician. Walk your interviewers through how you would first attempt to handle the disagreement among yourselves and then take it up the chain of command as necessary.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"It honestly would depend on the disagreement. If the disagreement was with a senior fellow, I would defer to their opinion as they have more experience than I do. I would use this as a great learning experience. However, if I was concerned that they were making the wrong decision regarding patient care or providing subpar patient care, I wouldn't hesitate to discuss it with them respectfully. If necessary, I would go to the chief resident in their program. For more serious issues, such as ignoring patient care responsibilities, I would go directly to a faculty member here because these actions, or inactions, would be done under the umbrella of their medical license, and jeopardizing care for a patient would never fly with me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Critical Thinking
13. What are your thoughts on the relationship between physicians and the pharmaceutical industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a rotating medical student, you may have been exposed to the relationships that physicians have with reps from the pharmaceutical industry. This relationship will advance as you train in the field of urology, as pharmaceuticals are used to treat many issues you will see. Your interviewers will want to hear that you can see the positives in your relationships with the pharma industry as a resident in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Due to the tendencies of these companies to financially reward physicians for using or prescribing their products, it is necessary to realize that sales representatives of pharmaceutical companies are generally an ally for physicians and provide essential information. Knowing that you will likely be seeing competing drug reps, it's important to reiterate that you would always be willing to do your homework on new treatment options to do what is best for your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I've learned through my medical school rotations that financial incentives provided by pharmaceutical companies are not acceptable and should be restricted, but I see value in pharmaceutical sales representatives as useful sources for information about a new drug, including data from clinical trials, samples for my future patients, and information about the manufacturer's program. This can make their drugs more affordable for patients who struggle financially, particularly those who don't have health insurance. Does your institution have any policies on working with pharmaceutical representatives? How do your urology residents typically interact with them?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Critical Thinking
14. Do you believe telehealth is an effective form of healthcare delivery, specifically as it relates to urology care?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While telehealth principles have been applied to patient care for years, it has come to the forefront recently. Your interviewers want their future urology residents to have a positive outlook on telehealth and a vision for where it will go in their future down the road as physicians in practice.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Although telehealth has limitations, including the inability to do a physical exam and obtain vitals on a patient, it is a way to reach out to patients who otherwise would not be able to get care when needed. For this reason, any future physician must embrace telehealth platforms while recognizing that they are not ideal. Your answer should provide the pros and cons of telehealth as it relates to the urologic care of patients, along with any direct examples of its use you are familiar with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I believe telemedicine in urology has its place, but it's not for every patient care situation. I know that many large institutions use telehealth visits for post-operative follow-up appointments and even for rounding on nursing home patients, which would typically require travel to see patients. I'm excited to learn more about how telemedicine is being incorporated into general urology practices and how your residents are currently learning telemedicine techniques at your institution."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Critical Thinking
15. Are you aware of some of the challenges that the field of urology is currently facing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question assesses your familiarity with urology and the issues currently occurring in the field before your residency interviews. Your interviewers hope the candidates they interview are prepared to discuss the issues the field faces and give some of their professional opinions on them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Before your urology residency interviews, research this question so you can come to your interview prepared to discuss a few issues the field faces. Remember that the unstated question is how to fix the issues. You are more than welcome to give your own educated opinion on this as you answer to spark some conversation with your interviewers.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I've known I've wanted to pursue urology residency training for over two years, and I've done as much reading and educating myself as I could on the field. One very overlooked challenge is the lack of general public knowledge on urologic diseases, to the point where many patients go too long without being treated. I will always be a proponent of public education as a future urologist. Another big elephant in the room in urology, like many other medical specialties, is the high degree of burnout among urologists. I've read the studies on how emotional exhaustion from long work days and the clerical duties of patient documentation lead to this, and I'm of the mindset that I will always need to be flexible in my work, both as a resident and a future urologist in practice."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Diligence
16. What is your plan for staying on top of trends, research, and news in the field as a new urology resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers want to know that you will fully immerse yourself in the field of urology as a new resident with their program. This includes keeping up to date on trends and understanding the challenges the industry faces, both now and in the future.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
First, talk about a couple of the resources you used to stay on top of medical industry trends as a medical student. Then highlight that you are aware of the larger urology groups and societies like the AUA. You might also ask the interviewers if they have any recommendations for you. This can start a conversation that will be helpful to you! Make sure to reiterate that you will join the AUA, read their publications and participate in their annual meeting as a resident.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I knew two years ago that my dream was to pursue urology residency training at a reputable institution like yours, so I immediately became a member of the AUA. I've loved diving into the latest research and clinical information in The Journal of Urology. I'm looking forward to attending the AUA conference every year to begin networking within the field, learning from the brightest stars, and hopefully presenting on my own one day. Can you talk about the annual attendance at the event from your program?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Direct
17. If you were to match into our urology residency program, you will be required to pass a criminal record check and education verification. Would you be comfortable with this?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In any healthcare-related setting, successfully passing a criminal background check is required for frontline caregivers. This includes medical students, residents, and fellows. Your interviewers ask this question to ensure that you can pass any required state or federal background checks required by their institution for their urology residents.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
If you can successfully pass a criminal record check or education verification, explain that you have a clean record. If you have any blemishes on your records and cannot pass a criminal record check or education verification, be upfront about that in the interview process. Any urology residency program will be more forgiving if you are honest about any marks on your background check.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I would be happy to comply with any criminal background checks required by your institution and understand that you must do your due diligence to protect the safety of patients. I also know that most states are diligent about ensuring that healthcare workers have clean criminal records. I am completely comfortable with this and only have one speeding violation on my record."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Discovery
18. How would you describe your personality using just three words?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers pose this question for two reasons. First, they want some insight into your personality to get a feel for how you will fit in with the other residents and staff of their urology residency program. They also want to hear how you view yourself. Notice they do not ask how others would describe you, but how YOU would describe yourself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Since you only have three words, make sure the words you use will make a lasting impact on your interviewers. Some possible words include adaptable, brave, compassionate, respectful, helpful, positive, thoughtful, and versatile. As you prepare for a question like this, try to be unique and avoid giving the same answer other candidates give. Explain your reasons for choosing these words to describe yourself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I could describe my personality in three words, I would say that I am compassionate, diligent, and fluid. My personality is well suited for the urologic care environment; my patients' well-being is always at the top of my mind. My drive and determination will carry me through my residency training and into my career as a physician focused on clinical care and translational research. My ability to adapt and change with any situation sets me apart from most people because I thrive in environments where things don't remain constant every day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Hard-working, creative thinking, and a good friend."
Jaymie's Feedback
Discovery
19. What procedure are you most excited to learn during urology residency training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You should be aware of the procedures you will be mastering over the next five years. Your interviewers want to hear what procedure is most exciting to you and learn a bit about what you will try to accomplish during your training with their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Come to your interview prepared to openly discuss the one or two urologic procedures that excite you. There is no right or wrong answer to a question like this. Your interviewers will be keying in on your passion and drive for the procedure you are most excited about, and you'll want to display passion and drive in your answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm excited to learn and master all procedures like vasectomies, cystoscopies, prostate procedures, and others because I want to go into a broad-spectrum community practice someday. Perhaps the most exciting is getting hands-on experience with lithotripsies because I have family members who have been personally impacted by kidney stones and have seen firsthand how this procedure has greatly impacted their quality of life following it."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
I like this surgery because it's challenging on the one hand but it also at the right duration, and you get to cure cancer without any major QOL adverse events like in RARLP for example."
Jaymie's Feedback
Discovery
20. What do you like to do for fun outside your medical training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers will pose some questions to get to know you personally during your time with them. They want to get a feel for who you are and what motivates you. They also ask this question to make sure that you will partake in activities outside your urology residency training that help you recharge physically and mentally.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
This question is more likely to be asked by senior residents than the faculty to gauge how you will fit in with the program's residents. Pick some popular activities to show that you would get along with the current residents, as well as some uncommon activities to project yourself as a unique and memorable person. Expect follow-up questions about your interests.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have a variety of activities and hobbies that help me relax and unwind. Growing up, I was an athlete, and staying in shape through exercise has always been important to me. I enjoy running, lifting weights, and biking as much as possible. I find those activities clear my mind after a long day in the classroom. I also am an avid cook and baker and consider myself a master of the grill and smoker. I love having friends over to eat my latest concoctions on a nice summer day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
However, when I manage to find time for myself -
I enjoy mountain biking, especially downhill rides.
Going on hikes with friends or simply sharing a beer with anyone available.
I also have a passion for photography, capturing moments with my SLR camera.
Lastly, food holds a special fascination for me, and I'm constantly on the lookout for
the next great flavor and the next exceptional restaurant. Fortunately, my wife shares my enthusiasm and joins me on these culinary adventures."
Jaymie's Feedback
Discovery
21. Do you have any initial worries or fears about joining a reputable urology residency program like ours?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers ask this question for two reasons. First, they want to debunk any common myths about becoming a urology resident for their prospective residents that have. Second, they want to hear how you are working on the areas in which you are not confident as a prospective new resident.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Rather than focusing on a potential deficit in your ability to perform as a urology resident, pick a common weakness or fear among new residents in any specialty. Then, explain how you have taken steps to prepare for this hurdle during your initial years in their urology residency program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have all of the confidence in the world in the clinical skills I've developed over the last four years of my medical school training, from the classroom success I've shown and the great rotations I've been a part of. I know that I will be mastering new skills in clinical and procedural practice during urology residency training, and I'm not worried about that. The only things that would keep me up at night in your program would be quickly learning a new EMR and integrating quickly with the existing team of senior residents. These are pressures that I put on myself to do promptly, and I would make them both a priority in my initial weeks with your program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Discovery
22. Competition for our urology residency program can be intense. What makes you a stand-out medical student for our program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The competition will be fierce among the medical school graduates they'll be considering, so your interviewers are looking for unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the crowd you are competing with. They want to hear what makes you the most unique and stand-out candidate to join their urology residency program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
There are many things you could mention in your answer to stand out from the crowd. Some ideas include your passion for volunteer work, a connection to any faculty or staff there, a story of personal struggle and triumph, a unique skill set, 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 and most unique candidate for this urology residency program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I am fortunate enough to match into your program as a urology resident, one thing you will quickly discover is that my drive and passion for succeeding in medicine are second to none. I would come here ready and willing to dedicate as much time as possible to becoming an expert in clinical practice and research, as I want to become a leader in the field early in my career. I plan to start on a pathway for K awards by the time I leave residency to boost my career as a physician-scientist and am ready to put in the work to do so."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
1. With my engineering background coupled with a mindset for entrepreneurship, I bring a unique perspective to research.
2. I'm already a urology resident, which should be an advantage! and I'm receiving positive feedback from both the patients I treat and the attendings I serve under.
3. I'm a dedicated, team-oriented individual, and my friendly and cooperative nature would make me an excellent addition to your team."
Jaymie's Feedback
It's also important to explicitly connect your unique attributes and experiences to your knowledge of the program. This can demonstrate that you've researched the program and understand how your strengths align with what they are looking for in a candidate.
Discovery
23. If becoming a physician was not an option, what career path would you have chosen?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While they will have confidence in your academic prowess and clinical skills from your transcripts and references, your interviewers want to get to know each candidate better during their interviews. Cultural fit can often be the tiebreaker among great candidates, and this hypothetical question will give the interviewers some insight into topics that interest you outside the medical field.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
There is no right or wrong answer here. Consider questions like this before your urology residency interviews. As you answer, talk openly and honestly with your interviewers about where your career path would have taken you if becoming a physician wasn't an option. If possible, try to make your answer memorable and give some insight into who you are as a person as you answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Radiology Example
"This is a great question; I don't often think about it because I know that becoming a physician was my destiny. But if becoming a physician simply wasn't an option, I would have to say that I would have pursued a career in social work. I'm passionate about helping the lives of those less fortunate, specifically children who aren't given a chance to succeed because of the environment they are born into."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Discovery
24. What is motivating you to pursue urology residency training versus other specialties?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You have many options to pursue for your residency training. Your decision to pursue a urology residency training program hopefully means that you have a career path planned out. Your interviewers want to hear your ultimate career goals following your training or any additional fellowship you want to pursue.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Come to your interview prepared to talk about your career goals as a physician and why this program is the best option for your pursuit of those goals. Whatever your motivations and goals, speak passionately about where you see your career taking you. Explain why a career as a urologist is important to you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Urology perfectly blends clinical care for patients and unique surgical techniques. During a great rotation last year in medical school, I learned firsthand how urologists provide great results for patients with difficult medical issues and get to provide personalized and compassionate care at all times. I love that I would learn hands-on surgical techniques using robots and lasers."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
In my opinion, urology stands out as the most rewarding profession in medicine.
It encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures, spanning from microsurgery to full laparotomy and addressing patients across the age spectrum, from infants to the elderly.
Urology covers diverse aspects, including benign conditions that enhance quality of life and critical oncological situations where decisions can mean the difference between life and death.
Additionally, it holds the distinction of being one of the most technologically advanced fields in medicine, yet there is still much to be explored and achieved, a prospect that I eagerly aspire to be a part of."
Jaymie's Feedback
Education
25. What was your favorite course during medical school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every medical student has a favorite area of medicine or a subject they find fascinating. Learning more about your favorite courses, personal preferences, and professional areas of intrigue will allow the interviewers to determine where your passion is as an incoming urology resident in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Come to your interview ready to talk about your favorite course during your medical school training. Elaborate on why it was your favorite. If you had a great professor, talk about what made them so influential. If you excelled in a particular subject, don't hesitate to brag to your interviewers. You can also point out a course that may have helped steer you toward a future in urology.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"One course that opened my eyes during medical school was genetics. I had a great professor who presented many fascinating cases where the field of genetics is helping to prevent and cure many debilitating diseases. It was one of those classes that connected the puzzle pieces of medicine."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Experience
26. What type of charting and dictation experience did you gain during your medical school rotations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Getting behind on charting after a long and busy day can happen in any practice, and this is especially true for urology residents in training. Your interviewers ask a question regarding your experience and exposure to patient charting and dictation to hear how you will prioritize these tasks during a busy day and that you can do what is necessary for a patient's record, even on the busiest days of residency training.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Speak openly and honestly about your exposure to working in different EMRs and charting during your medical school rotations. While your interviewers know that the students they interview will have varying experience, it is important to stress that you would always be timely with your charting and that you understand why doing so is vital to their overall care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I feel fortunate that I was able to get hands-on experience in a few EMRs during my medical school rotations and learn the ins and outs of each system. Being computer savvy, I was able to pick up any program quickly. I was allowed to chart patient notes, send prescriptions, and even submit for inpatient admissions on a few patients. As a resident of your urology program, I know that timely charting is necessary because nursing staff and other providers need documentation quickly. If I was caught in a busy day in clinic or rounding, I would make sure that my notes are entered before the end of my shift."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Leadership
27. Talk about a time you showed initiative by taking the lead in a situation during medical school. Why did you take action as the leader, and what was the outcome?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During the later years of your urology residency training, you will be expected to lead and mentor junior residents. Your interviewers want to see that you are confident enough to take the initiative when the opportunity arises. Most medical training programs don't provide formal leadership training, so your interviewers want to know that you are a natural leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
Carefully describe a situation during your medical school training where you saw a chance to lead and took advantage of it. Talk about the success of the moment and your biggest takeaway. You'll want to highlight your ability to communicate effectively and lead others as you answer this question.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"Growing up and into my college years, I was a natural leader to my peers. This is evident in my years as a team captain in the sports world. During my medical school training, I led the urology student interest group and the health literacy initiative group at my medical school. The HLI group was significant because I firmly believe in education about current issues in health. As a leader of these groups, I organized monthly meetings, bi-weekly communications, and subcommittees for leading projects throughout the year."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
The accompanying surgeon informed me that a pressurized irrigation system was used due to visualization issues.
On arrival, the patient presented with a systolic BP of <60 mmHg. Bedside US showed free fluids in the RP space.
I made the diagnosis of compartment syndrome, and I swiftly decided to take him to the OR. I briefly communicated with the family and my attending.
I then performed a laparotomy, evacuated approximately 4 liters of fluid, and achieved immediate stabilization before my attending arrived."
Jaymie's Feedback
Scenario Based
28. Let's say a recent patient survey comes back, and you find out that you did not meet a patient's expectations as their urologist. What are the next steps you would take to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient satisfaction surveys are commonplace in any healthcare institution and are put in place to ensure that the best possible care is provided to every patient. During your time in urology residency, your patients will fill out satisfaction surveys about your performance. Your team of interviewers poses this question to understand how you will take constructive feedback from a patient's survey and learn from it.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
If you were to ask any physician if they have ever received critical feedback on a patient survey, the answer would be a resounding yes. Demonstrate to your interviewers that you can take the feedback, analyze it, and use it as motivation to improve the care you provide moving forward. Remember that most patient feedback is anonymous, and you may not be able to pinpoint the exact interaction that resulted in the feedback from the patient.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"As a urology resident in training, I would take the patient's thoughts from the survey to heart and use it as a learning opportunity. Understanding that patient survey data is sent anonymously, I may not be able to recall the exact situation, but I would not let any critical feedback get me down. I would also discuss the survey information with a senior resident and faculty member to get their thoughts. I'd always be very open to doing this as a resident with your program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Scenario Based
29. As a new trainee in our urology residency, how will you respond when asked to do a procedure or task that you were unfamiliar with and uncomfortable handling?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As you enter urology residency training out of medical school, you know that you will take on many new procedures and tasks in practice that you haven't been directly exposed to before. In proposing a question like this, your interviewers will be looking to hear that you would take a collaborative and learning approach and that you aren't afraid to ask for help when you know your shortcomings.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
This is not the time to say that you would jump in with both feet and potentially risk the safety and well-being of a patient. Provide an answer that illustrates this difference. As you answer, talk about your willingness to ask for help and learn in the process.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am very confident in my medical knowledge and the procedural skills I developed during my medical school training, but I also know that I will tackle some things that are very new to me as a new urology resident. When faced with this situation, I wouldn't hesitate to ask a senior resident or faculty member for guidance. My goal is to leave your program with the skills necessary to be a confident and competent urologist. I look forward to these learning opportunities with your program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Stress
30. How do you think you will perform under pressure as a urology resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Residents each year report higher and higher stress levels, and urology residents are not immune to this fact. Your interviewers need to know that you have the tools and skillset to face the pressure that comes with training in their urology residency program. The interviewers expect you to describe the tools, resources, and mindset you will use to navigate the most pressure-packed situations as a trainee.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
How to Answer
To prove your ability to handle the pressures of residency training, provide an example of a time you were challenged by a challenging workload or a pressure-packed situation as a medical student. Discuss how you reacted in that situation, what you learned from the experience, and if you would do things differently next time. Don't forget to discuss the resources you used to ensure that you paid close attention to the fine details.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm confident I would come to your urology residency program ready to handle any situation. Handling stressful and pressure-packed situations healthily and productively starts and ends with the right mindset. I am humble enough to ask for help when needed and wise enough to know that perfection will not always be attainable. By prioritizing my physical and mental health during my off time, I will ensure that I'm ready to tackle any challenge during my work day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 4th, 2023