Interview Questions Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Tell me about yourself?

I am 23 years old from Wausau, Wisconsin. I graduated with a degree in Biology from Saint Norbert's College. My passion for medicine stems from my mother, a nurse, and I currently work as a medical scribe for a sports medicine physician.

Why do you want to pursue a D.O. degree?

I believe the osteopathic medical field provides a broad training base and focuses on treating the whole patient, which is essential for effective care.

What is OMT?

OMT stands for Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, which involves hands-on techniques used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.

Why do you want to study in Arizona?

I am drawn to the diverse patient population and love for the outdoors. I also seek a strong educational experience in a metropolitan area. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you want to pursue a career in medicine?

My desire to pursue medicine is influenced by my mother and my experiences shadowing physicians, where I witnessed the impact they have on patients' lives. Signup and view all the answers

What do you hope to gain from AZCOM/CCOM?

I hope to receive comprehensive training in osteopathic medicine that emphasizes holistic care and allows me to treat a diverse range of patients. Signup and view all the answers

What experience do you have with osteopathic medicine?

I have shadowed Dr. Jeremy Russell, an orthopedic surgeon, and observed his patient care approach and surgical techniques. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of doctor do you want to be and why?

I want to be a doctor known for sincerity, patience, and dedication, ensuring that patients feel informed and valued. Signup and view all the answers

How have you demonstrated leadership during your education?

I helped establish the American Medical Student Association at SNC and took a leadership role in guiding new members. Signup and view all the answers

What makes D.O. training different?

D.O.s focus on a whole-person approach, treating symptoms and considering lifestyle and environmental factors. Signup and view all the answers

Can you give an example of a patient encounter that impacted you?

I witnessed Dr. Ryan comfort an elderly patient dealing with cancer, emphasizing the importance of compassion in care. Signup and view all the answers

What inspired the individual to pursue a career in medicine?

Exposure to medicine through their mother, a nurse for more than 30 years. Signup and view all the answers

Who did the individual shadow that influenced their understanding of the physician's role?

Dr. Hogan. Signup and view all the answers

What are three essential qualities a doctor should possess?

Adaptability, patience, and humility. Signup and view all the answers

What are your strengths?

My ability to work in a team and resilience in overcoming challenges. Signup and view all the answers

What personal experience does the individual reflect on to emphasize their desire to help others?

Their mother's health struggles. Signup and view all the answers

What activities does the individual enjoy for relieving stress?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

How does the individual describe their current job?

As a medical scribe in a non-surgical orthopedics and sports medicine clinic. Signup and view all the answers

What are your weaknesses?

Reserved and communication skills. Signup and view all the answers

Tell me about a conflict you had and how you resolved it.

I dealt with unprepared group members in a geography project by taking initiative to organize materials and meetings. Signup and view all the answers

List five characteristics that set you apart from other applicants.

Adaptability, grit, patience, resiliency, and creativity. Signup and view all the answers

What are three things you would change about U.S. healthcare right now?

Regulate pharmaceutical drug costs, expand Medicaid/Medicare, and lower healthcare costs for everyone. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are compassionate/empathetic.

Interacting with diverse patients as a hospice volunteer. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are resilient.

Reflecting on my application after failing to gain acceptance to medical school and improving from that experience. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are driven/hard working.

My involvement in parasitology and immunology research. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are organized.

I manage my time by documenting tasks and setting smaller goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are a good multitasker.

Balancing basketball, academics, and starting a student organization during college. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you have come into contact with diversity.

As a hospice volunteer, I interacted with patients from various backgrounds. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are ambitious.

Conducting parasitology research that began as a class project. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are creative.

Developing a personalized immunology elective course that connects my passion for athletics. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are patient.

Working with hospice patients who are often quiet and struggle to communicate. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you are a good leader.

Coaching a group of high school basketball players, requiring adaptability and clear communication. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you believe AZCOM/CCOM would provide you with the type of osteopathic medical education you are seeking?

They emphasize primary care, healthy lifestyles, and diverse patient interactions. Signup and view all the answers

Why should AZCOM accept you into this year's class?

My ambition, resiliency, and ability to overcome failure make me a strong candidate. Signup and view all the answers

Have you ever faced diversity? Recall a specific situation.

I engaged with diverse patients as a hospice volunteer, adapting to unique backgrounds. Signup and view all the answers

Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult person.

I handled difficult patients by remaining calm and seeking solutions in high-pressure environments. Signup and view all the answers

What is the worst thing about being a doctor?

Not being able to help everyone and not always having the answers. Signup and view all the answers

What does diversity mean to you?

Diversity means valuing unique backgrounds and perspectives. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes you from other applicants?

My resiliency and ability to reflect on and learn from failures. Signup and view all the answers

Why specifically a doctor?

I want to be challenged and have a meaningful impact in medicine. Signup and view all the answers

What attracted you to RVU/X School?

The location was near Denver in a smaller suburban community, enjoyment of the outdoors, opportunity to contribute to its early history and impact the medical curriculum, and the appealing DO option. Signup and view all the answers

What is the physician's role in patient care?

Physicians provide answers and treatments, lead the care team, diagnose and treat diseases, and advocate for holistic patient care. Signup and view all the answers

If you get into more than one school, how will you decide where to go?

I want to attend a school that shares similar values to mine, finances, job opportunity for Emily, and my feel for the school/community. Signup and view all the answers

What scares you the most about medical school?

Work Load Signup and view all the answers

In your shadowing experience, did you see a difference between DOs and MDs?

Not entirely, but DOs may emphasize holistic care more than some MDs. Signup and view all the answers

Are you concerned about attending a brand new school?

True Signup and view all the answers

Who is your role model?

My mother. Signup and view all the answers

What should I be sure to tell the admissions committee?

I am prepared to take on challenges and have a deep passion for medicine. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of how you deal with stress well.

I handled challenging coursework while being involved in AMSA and playing basketball. Signup and view all the answers

How do you envision using your medical education to advance care for under-represented groups?

Through medical education and community outreach. Signup and view all the answers

How would your friends describe you?

Funny, loyal, and extremely hard working. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a negative situation that you turned into a positive one.

Failing to gain acceptance into medical school motivated me to seek other experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What are the biggest problems/things you like least about X school?

The cost associated with medical school. Signup and view all the answers

What have your leadership experiences taught you?

Patience and composure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the worst thing about being a doctor?

Not being able to treat/save every single patient. Signup and view all the answers

If you could sum up your application in a short pitch, what would you say?

I am a deeply motivated and resilient individual committed to serving my community. Signup and view all the answers

What career would you pursue if not for being a doctor?

Medical research. Signup and view all the answers

Explain your parasitology research.

It was a survey of the parasite profile of black bullhead in eastern Wisconsin. Signup and view all the answers

What are the pillars of medical ethics?

Autonomy Signup and view all the answers

What is Medicaid?

A joint federal and state program providing healthcare coverage for low-income individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What is Medicare?

A federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and over and some younger people with disabilities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Affordable Care Act?

A healthcare system providing coverage and protections including pre-existing conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is your view on abortion?

Education is important to prevent unwanted pregnancies Signup and view all the answers

What kind of doctor do you want to be and why?

I want to be a doctor known for sincerity, patience, and dedication, ensuring patients feel informed and secure. Signup and view all the answers

How do you believe the rising cost of healthcare is going to affect the delivery of healthcare in the future?

The rising costs may make it much more difficult for patients to receive the care that they need. Signup and view all the answers

How would you solve problems with organ shortages?

By increasing education about organ donation and its importance. Signup and view all the answers

How would you deal with healthcare costs? How would you attempt to lower them?

Increase taxes to expand Medicare/Medicaid, reduce pharmaceutical costs, and lower insurance costs. Signup and view all the answers

What would you do if a patient refused a blood transfusion due to their beliefs?

Respect patient autonomy and provide all necessary information for informed consent. Signup and view all the answers

Name a time you went above and beyond. What did you learn from this experience?

I transformed a simple parasitology project into a comprehensive study. Signup and view all the answers

If you find out that one of your classmates is addicted to drugs/alcohol, what would you do?

I would talk to them about their day and ask if they want to talk. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a time you dealt with someone difficult.

I once dealt with an upset mother at the pharmacy over an antibiotic prescription. Signup and view all the answers

How do you deal with stress?

By organizing my schedule and creating smaller goals. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristics would you want in a physician who was taking care of you or a family member?

Patient, thorough, attentive, and able to clearly outline treatment options. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a time when you asked for help.

I sought help during the complicated medical school application process. Signup and view all the answers

What is one thing we should know about you?

I am adaptable and handle stress well. Signup and view all the answers

How would you address the current physician shortage?

By making medical school more affordable. Signup and view all the answers

How would you handle a non-compliant patient?

I would never lose hope and would continue to inform them of the risks and benefits of compliance. Signup and view all the answers

When is a time you received feedback that you did not agree with and how did you respond?

I received feedback after not gaining acceptance to medical school, which I initially disagreed with but reflected on. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of a time you failed. How did you react?

Failing to gain acceptance to medical school made me reevaluate my candidacy and improve. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between __________, allopathic, and palliative care?

osteopathic Signup and view all the answers

How have you demonstrated leadership at SNC?

I demonstrated leadership through mentoring teammates and my involvement in AMSA. Signup and view all the answers

Why Osteopathic medicine?

It promotes a more well-rounded and versatile approach to patient care. Signup and view all the answers

What are three qualities a doctor should have?

Adaptability, patience, humility. Signup and view all the answers

What are three of your weaknesses?

Being reserved, not fully utilizing support systems. Signup and view all the answers

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself practicing medicine while serving my community. Signup and view all the answers

List five characteristics that set you apart from other applicants here today.

Grit, humility. Signup and view all the answers

If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be and why?

Paul Kalanithi, for his insights and experiences in medicine. Signup and view all the answers

Tell me your thoughts about healthcare.

Healthcare is too expensive and confusing, with many people lacking coverage. Signup and view all the answers

Name one positive and one negative experience from your undergraduate studies.

Starting AMSA was positive; not engaging in research earlier was negative. Signup and view all the answers

How would you deal with a colleague/patient who had different values/beliefs than you?

Be open to understanding their perspective without getting offended. Signup and view all the answers

What do you anticipate will be the most difficult aspect of medical school?

Time management and workload will be challenging. Signup and view all the answers

When is a time you received feedback that you did not agree with and how did you respond?

I received feedback on my medical school applications, which I initially disagreed with. Signup and view all the answers

How will you deal with __________?

work/life balance Signup and view all the answers

Describe a time when you had to interact with someone difficult.

I interacted with difficult patients at the pharmacy and clinic. Signup and view all the answers

When we look back on your time with RVU/X School, what would you like to be remembered by?

Someone who made a difference in the local medical community. Signup and view all the answers

Have you ever seen a doctor make a mistake? What did you do about it?

I observed mistakes as a scribe and learned the importance of communication. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Tell me about yourself

23 years old, from Wausau, Wisconsin; graduated with a Biology degree from Saint Norbert’s College.
Inspired to pursue medicine by mother's 30+ years as a nurse; shadowing experiences influenced career choice.
Current role as a medical scribe in a sports medicine clinic provides clinical exposure and understanding of patient care.
Volunteers at a hospice, assisting with meals and providing companionship to patients.

Why D.O.?

Aims to serve a wide patient population and enhance lives through comprehensive training in family medicine.
Osteopathic curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach and manipulative medicine, improving versatility as a physician.
Commitment to maintaining patients' humanity and dignity, rooted in hospice volunteer experience.

What is OMT? (OMM)

Hands-on techniques used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness.
Involves manipulation of joints and muscles, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of body systems.
Offers alternative treatments to medications and surgery, enhancing patient care.

Why Arizona?

Attracted to the diverse curriculum and mission, with a personal connection through family ties in Arizona.
Desires to raise a family in an outdoor-friendly environment with ample stress-relief options.
Previous interview experience at Mayo deepened appreciation for Phoenix’s communities.

Why medicine?

Early exposure to medicine through mother’s nursing career sparked a passion for science and healthcare.
Shadowing physicians revealed the profound impact on patients’ lives, particularly witnessing critical surgeries.
Motivated by personal familial health struggles; aims to enhance quality of life for people in pain.

Why will AZCOM/CCOM provide the type of osteopathic medicine you desire?

Focus on treating diverse patient populations and holistic care aligned with personal values of health and wellness.
Commitment to interacting with varied communities to improve understanding of patient needs and backgrounds.

What experience do you have with osteopathic medicine?

Shadowed Dr. Jeremy Russell, an orthopedic surgeon, observing surgical procedures and post-surgery patient interactions.
Experience with a family member as a patient offered insight into physician-patient relationships and holistic care.

What kind of doctor do you want to be and why?

Aspires to be sincere, patient, and dedicated, fostering trust and open communication with patients.
Aims to provide peace of mind and resolve patients’ concerns through thorough and compassionate care.
Commitment to remaining engaged with patients to sustain passion for medicine and personalized care.

How have you demonstrated leadership at SNC?

Co-founded and led the American Medical Student Association Chapter, mentoring new members and organizing activities.
Actively engaged in team dynamics, encouraging commitment and discipline among teammates in basketball contexts.

Why is D.O. different?

D.O.s emphasize whole-person care, treating not just illnesses but also considering lifestyle and environmental factors.
Focus on prevention and promoting the body's natural healing systems enhances patient health outcomes.

Give an example of a patient encounter that left an impression on you.

Engaged with Dr. Ryan and Dr. Groteluschen, who demonstrated compassion and effective communication in challenging situations with patients.
Impressed by Dr. Garcia's dedication and respect for patient experiences, highlighting the importance of thorough care.

What are three qualities a doctor should have?

Adaptable: Ability to adjust to diverse clinical situations.
Patient: Maintain calm and composure under stress, handling difficult interactions effectively.
Humble: Confidence paired with a willingness to seek collaboration and second opinions when necessary.

What are your strengths?

Teamwork skills critical for high-pressure environments in medicine.
Resilience and ability to learn from mistakes demonstrated through athletic and academic challenges.
Attention to detail and organizational skills are vital for effective patient care.

What are your weaknesses?

Reserved nature may affect initial communication in professional settings; actively working to improve through engagement and volunteering.
Communication challenges addressed through roles that encourage interpersonal interaction and public speaking.

Tell me about a conflict you had and how you resolved it.

Navigated group project challenges by leading communication efforts and organizing resources despite teammates' lack of initiative.
Learned the importance of preemptive communication and collaboration to avoid future conflicts.

List five characteristics that set you apart from other applicants.

Adaptability: Proven ability to adjust strategies during diverse basketball games.
Grit: Willingness to perform essential, albeit unglamorous tasks.
Patience: Maintains composure in stressful situations, essential for medical practice.
Resiliency: Commitment to persevere through setbacks and challenges.
Creativity: Innovative thinking applied to problem-solving in medical scenarios.### Teamwork and Adaptability
Natural inclination toward teamwork, highlighting the importance of collaboration in various settings.
Adaptability developed through experiences as a college athlete, balancing multiple commitments amidst fluctuating schedules.
During basketball games, incorporates real-time analysis of personal and team performance under time pressure.

Resilience and Growth

Resilient mindset demonstrated through reflection on setbacks, such as not gaining acceptance to medical school.
Continuously seeks self-improvement and learning following failures.

Compassion and Empathy

Compassion illustrated through volunteer work in hospice, interacting with diverse patients.
Patient care involves understanding individual preferences, showing that small gestures significantly impact patient comfort.

Organization and Time Management

Effective organization skills showcased by maintaining task lists to achieve daily and weekly goals, crucial during college.
Balancing athletic and academic commitments required strict time management.

Multitasking Skills

Multitasking exemplified by successfully managing academics, athletics, extracurriculars, and studying for the MCAT simultaneously.

Ambition and Drive

Ambitious goals reflected in ongoing research in parasitology and immunology, showing commitment beyond initial academic requirements.
Initiative taken in starting and leading the American Medical Student Association (AMSA).

Creativity in Learning

Creativity seen through the development of a personalized immunology course linking sports and science, demonstrating a unique approach to education.

Patience and Conflict Resolution

Patience developed through experiences with hospice patients, understanding their unique communication needs.
Conflict management skills honed in various roles, including retail and healthcare settings, focusing on maintaining composure under pressure.

Leadership Capabilities

Leadership experience as a youth coach requires effective communication and team building, emphasizing adaptability due to limited practice time.
Acknowledged the necessity of patience while guiding individuals across different skill levels in a team environment.

Commitment to Diversity

Exposure to diversity through volunteer work in hospice, dealing with patients from varied backgrounds, including those with different languages and life experiences.
Believes that diversity enhances patient care and understanding in healthcare settings.

Vision for Healthcare Engagement

Aspires to affect change in healthcare by addressing systemic issues such as pharmaceutical costs and access to care.
Expressed desire for a leadership role in health policy to advocate for equitable healthcare access.

Personal Philosophy on Medicine

Sees medicine as an opportunity to impact lives holistically, addressing both physical and emotional needs.
Believes in the importance of problem-solving and lifelong learning within the medical field.

Handling Patient Autonomy

Acknowledges the need to respect patient autonomy even in difficult situations, such as refusing life-saving treatments.
Emphasizes the importance of informed consent and patient education in decision-making processes.

Continuous Learning and Improvement

Commitment to academic and professional growth, exemplified by proactive engagement in challenging courses and research projects.
Belief that each experience should be maximized to cultivate passion and interest in one’s career path.### Communication and Support
Engaging in conversations about daily stressors can foster a supportive environment.
Offer to listen and assist classmates with study sessions or personal issues to encourage openness regarding problems.

Dealing with Difficult People

Experience with difficult individuals in various jobs, including a challenging incident involving a frustrated mother at a pharmacy.
Understanding the emotional state of hospice and pharmacy patients is crucial for effective communication.

Stress Management Strategies

Organizing tasks and creating smaller, achievable goals helps alleviate stress.
Engaging in physical activities like biking, hiking, and reading provides effective stress relief and joy.

Desired Physician Characteristics

Important traits include patience, thoroughness, attentiveness, and clear communication skills.

Seeking Assistance

Navigated the complex medical school application process with the support of an academic advisor and peers.
Relied heavily on family, classmates, and online resources for guidance.

Personal Qualities

Adaptability and resilience in stressful situations are crucial personal traits.
Commitment to holistic patient care is a driving motivation.

Addressing Physician Shortages

Proposing affordable pathways to medical school to alleviate financial barriers that deter potential students.

Managing Non-Compliant Patients

Maintain hope and encouragement for patients while providing clear information about risks and benefits of compliance.
Approach treatment holistically, considering physical and emotional factors.

Handling Feedback

Reflecting on and understanding feedback about medical school applications led to self-improvement and reevaluation of candidacy.

Experiences of Failure

Identified the lack of acceptance into medical school as a failure, using it as an opportunity to improve and stay active in the medical field.

Difference Between Medical Approaches

Allopathic: Focus on treating symptoms directly through various therapies.
Palliative: Emphasizes relief from symptoms for serious illnesses, improving overall quality of life.
Osteopathic: Holistic approach considering lifestyle and the body’s natural healing capabilities.

Leadership Experience

Demonstrated leadership in various settings, including sports teams and club organization, highlighting the importance of mentoring and guiding peers.

Career Aspirations

Aiming to provide holistic care and community service in a medical practice while embracing lifelong learning.

Unique Applicant Qualities

Possessing grit and humility coupled with compassion and a strong work ethic as distinguishing characteristics.

Handling Diverse Beliefs

Open-mindedness in discussions about differing values allows for understanding and learning opportunities without offense.

Anticipated Medical School Challenges

Managing time effectively amidst a demanding workload; previous experiences as a student-athlete provide a foundation for balance.

Reflection on Work and Life Balance

Planning to prioritize personal wellness while managing the demands of medical education and practice.

Legacy Goals

Aspiring to be remembered as someone who positively impacted the medical community and nurtured connections with peers.

Observations on Physician Mistakes

Maintaining vigilance and communication is vital in medical settings, recognizing the human aspect of healthcare professionals.

Attraction to Medical Schools

Schools like RVU and Iowa appeal due to their values aligned with holistic care and community service.

Insights on Healthcare System

Advocates for affordable healthcare and transparent navigation through insurance and prescription processes to ensure wider coverage and accessibility.

Personal Role Model

Mother serves as a significant inspiration through her dedication as a nurse and her selflessness in helping others.

Strengths to Highlight to Admissions

Emphasizing a robust resilience, work ethic, and a deep passion for providing compassionate care to the community as vital attributes for a successful medical career.

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Description

This quiz features common interview questions and detailed answers to help prepare for job interviews. Each flashcard presents a question and illustrates how to effectively respond, enhancing your interview skills. Practice makes perfect, so use these flashcards to boost your confidence.