Common Residency Interview Topics

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Specific questions will vary among programs. However, questions will generally fall into the following categories: 

  • Questions about you – “How would your friends describe you?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” 

  • Questions about your future career goals – “What do you see yourself doing in the future?” “What are your goals?” 

  • Questions about why your interest in the specialty – “Why are you interested in this specialty?” “How much did lifestyle considerations fit into your choice of specialty?” 

  • Questions about your interest in their specific program – “Why are you interested in our program?” “What are you looking for in a program?” 

  • Questions about your application/record – “Can you tell me about this deficiency on your record?”  

  • Questions about your past experiences – “What was the most difficult situation you encountered in medical school?” “What is one event you are proudest of in your life?” 

  • Questions about how you would handle a hypothetical situation – “Describe how you can effectively deal with someone in a crisis?” “If your attending came into work intoxicated but was still performing well, what would you do?” 

 Access an AAMC list of frequently asked interview questions (sign-in required).