Twenty Tips For Residency Interviews

1. Be prepared. Research the program and its faculty ahead of time, and have a clear understanding of why you want to pursue a residency in that specific field.

2. Dress professionally. First impressions are important, and you want to make sure you present yourself in the best light possible.

3. Arrive or join the meeting on time. Plan your travel in advance and make sure you allow enough time to get to the interview location. If it’s a virtual interview, log on ahead of time and join the meeting timely. Being late leaves a bad impression about your professionalism.

4. Be honest. Don’t exaggerate your accomplishments or try to hide any weaknesses. Instead, be honest and transparent about your experiences and qualifications.

5. Be confident. Speak clearly and make eye contact. Show that you are excited about the opportunity to be a part of the program.

6. Be specific. When answering questions, use specific examples and stories to illustrate your points. Avoid generalities and clichés.

7. Show enthusiasm for the field. Explain why you are passionate about the field and what excites you about the program.

8. Show interest in the program. Ask thoughtful questions about the program, its residents, and its faculty.

9. Be a good listener. Listen actively to the interviewers’ questions and respond thoughtfully.

10. Be aware of your body language. Sit up straight, make eye contact, and avoid fidgeting.

11. Show your personality. Let your personality shine through in your responses.

12. Show your USCE. Highlight your USCE and how it has prepared you for the program.

13. Show your diversity. Highlight your diversity and how it can contribute to the program.

14. Show your research. Highlight your research and how it can contribute to the program.

15. Show your publications. Highlight your publications and how it can contribute to the program.

16. Show your leadership. Highlight your leadership experiences and how it can contribute to the program.

17. Show your volunteerism. Highlight your volunteerism experiences and how it can contribute to the program.

18. Show your mentorship abilities. Highlight your mentorship experiences and how it can contribute to the program.

19. Show your hobbies. Highlight your hobbies and how it can contribute to the program. This will help the interviewer remember you as a person beyond your curriculum vitae.

20. Show your gratitude. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview and your interest in the program. Always thank the interviewer for their time.