The Interview
The Residency Interview
Residency programs schedule applicant interviews in different ways; some will contact you and others will expect you to contact them. When uncertain, it is appropriate to call and ask how the interviews are scheduled. The more places you interview, the better perspective you will gain of the program differences.
While your GPA/rank, recommendation letters, clerkship knowledge, skills and performance played a major role in your securing the interview, how well you interview will more than likely determine whether or not you'll be ranked.
Tip: You cannot rank a program at which you did not interview!
What to Wear to the Interview
For men, wear a nice-fitting suit (not a sports coat and khaki pants) in black, charcoal gray or navy blue (pinstripes are fine, too) with a white or pale blue collared shirt and a conservative tie. Hair should be short and it is preferred that you do not have a beard or goatee.
For women, wear a figure-flattering suit in black, charcoal gray, navy blue or chocolate brown (skirt or pantsuit) with a simple collared blouse or shell in white or ivory. Shoes should be simple, low-heeled pumps...no stilettos. Jewelry should be simple and conservative; no long, dangly earrings. Hosiery should be neutral and match your skin tone.
Tip: Interviewers often rely on chemistry...the first five minutes
of your interview, rather than who is the most qualified candidate.
Travel to the Interview
Be creative and network with fellow students, classmates, alumni and anyone else you can find to assist with overnight housing. Ask airlines and hotels about student discounts.
Take an extra set of clothing with you on your trip. It may not be practical for you to purchase two of everything, but you should at least plan to pack an extra shirt and tie (or blouse) and socks (or nylons.)
During the Interview
During your interview, take a deep breath, maintain eye contact with the interviewer and just relax. Be prepared to answer questions such as:
Tell me about yourself...
This may be the only question your interviewer asks. Be sure to address your positive points quickly since you may not have a great deal of time.
What are you looking for in a program?
Know what differences there are between training programs; assure the interviewer that neither your time nor theirs is being wasted.
Why are you applying to this program?
Know about the program; do your research! Make it a point to understand how training programs differ as well as what the program has to offer.
What do you see yourself doing ten years?
Be honest. If you are unsure of what you want to do with your training, let them know that your options are still open.
Name your three greatest strengths and weaknesses...
Be prepared to answer this question, so you don't spend the last fifteen minutes of your interview trying to come up with an answer. For weaknesses, you might talk about the negative sides of some of your strengths.
Tip: Take notes as you go along; these will serve you well in
the future after you have interviewed with several programs.
Nature of the Interview
Interviews for residency programs are much like interviews for medical school. Typically, the department chairman or program director will greet applicants and provide a program overview. Then, some of the faculty members will be introduced. Residents usually take you on a tour of the facilities; this is the time to ask questions! No matter what they tell you, do not assume that the residents have no input in the selection process. For sample interview questions click here. For questions that you should ask the interviewer click here.
Lunch and interviews usually follow. Be enthusiastic at all times and prepared to address any potential problems with your application. Be honest about the causes of any problems and be positive in your explanation. Your attitude will be remembered much longer than particular answers to questions.
It's important to maintain contact with programs at which you do wish to train. It is also crucial to let them know that you are interested in them. The more interviewing you do, the better your perspective will be regarding what is available...and the more comfortable you will become with the process. You'll gain experience at less cost by interviewing at nearby programs early in the season.
Immediately following the conclusion of your interview, record important facts and feelings about the program on your residency program evaluation guide.
