Top 10 Residency Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Mastering the Residency Interview

The interview is your chance to bring your application to life. Preparation is key to presenting your best self confidently and authentically.

1. Tell Me About Yourself

Strategy: Prepare a 2-minute response covering your background, why you chose medicine, and why this specialty. End with something memorable.

2. Why This Specialty?

Strategy: Share specific experiences that solidified your choice. Demonstrate deep understanding of what the specialty entails daily.

3. Why Our Program?

Strategy: Research thoroughly. Mention specific faculty, research opportunities, curriculum features, or location factors that genuinely appeal to you.

4. What Are Your Strengths?

Strategy: Choose 2-3 strengths relevant to residency success. Provide specific examples demonstrating each strength in action.

5. What Is Your Greatest Weakness?

Strategy: Be honest but strategic. Choose a real weakness you're actively working to improve. Show self-awareness and growth mindset.

6. Describe a Difficult Patient Encounter

Strategy: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus on what you learned and how you grew.

7. Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?

Strategy: Show ambition while remaining realistic. Discuss clinical interests, potential fellowship, academic or community goals.

8. How Do You Handle Stress?

Strategy: Provide specific, healthy coping mechanisms. Give examples of managing stress during medical school.

9. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?

Strategy: Always have 3-5 thoughtful questions prepared. Ask about resident wellness, mentorship, or specific program features.

10. Is There Anything Else You'd Like Us to Know?

Strategy: Use this to address any concerns or highlight something important not covered elsewhere.