As candidates prepare for the rigorous residency interview season, it’s essential to anticipate the types of questions that may arise during these pivotal conversations. While the questions asked will vary by program and specialty, certain themes and questions tend to recur across the board, and there are some questions that appear more than others. Here’s a look at some of the most common questions asked during residency interviews for the 2024 Match:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why are you pursuing ______ specialty?
- Why do you want to have your residency here?
- Tell me about a difficult interaction you had and how you dealt with it.
- Tell me about a failure and how you overcame it.
- Specific questions about hobbies and other items of note on your application.
- What motivates you to wake up every morning?
- What are you looking for in a residency program?
- Tell me about a time you disagreed with the feedback you received. What was the feedback and how did you handle it?
- What questions do you have for me?
- What will you be able to bring to this program?
- What is the last book you read?
- What is an event/experience that you would tell your high school self not to miss?
- Tell me about a memorable patient experience and why it was so memorable?
- Tell me about a leader you admire and why you admire them.
- How do you handle stress/pressure?
- Tell me about a time you felt like you really contributed to a team.
- Why should we not choose you? Subsequently, how are you trying to improve these drawbacks?
Ultimately, succeeding in medical residency interviews goes beyond rehearsing scripted responses to interview questions—it requires authenticity, self-awareness, and genuine connection with interviewers. By showcasing your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations, you can stand out as a compelling candidate who is well-prepared to embark on the next phase of their medical journey.
Looking for more advice on surviving your time before, during, and after residency? Download our free eBook, A Complete Guide to Medical Residency.
