What is a medical fellowship interview
A medical fellowship interview is similar to a residency interview, in that the preparation strategy and the type of questions you’ll most likely be asked is nearly identical. An interview to join a medical fellowship, however, can be more intense and more in-depth than your average residency interview.
Medical fellowships are one of many possible next steps following your residency years. In short, a fellowship is typically a one-year commitment to further study in a sub-specialty of medicine. Residents may decide to further specialize their interests and skills by applying for a fellowship.
Not every fellowship will use an interview, but the majority see it as a beneficial tool in getting to know their applicants and a way to find the most suitable candidate. Selected applicants to a fellowship will be invited to an interview to further narrow the field of possibilities. Just like with residency interviews, it’s important to have a strategy here for answering any type of question and preparing answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. If you’re a Canadian med student, you can expect some similar questions at a fellowship interview as you had at your CaRMS interview.
In recent years, many fellowship interviews have been moved to virtual or online only, too. Your prep strategy won’t differ much if you’re invited to an online fellowship interview, but it’s a good idea to know ahead of time what format your interview will be and practice your interview skills in a mock virtual interview format.
10 sample medical fellowship interview questions and answers
A medical fellowship interview is also a prime opportunity to ask questions of your interviewers—as is every professional interview. This is your chance to ask questions about the job, the work environment, the day-to-day operations of the fellowship, your hours and compensation, research and other opportunities for growth. In short, you can find out a particular fellowship is as good a fit for you and your career goals as you are for the fellowship.
Some questions you can and should come prepped with for your interview might include:
Some other good questions to ask would revolve around your lifestyle needs. If accepting a fellowship would require you to move to a new city, ask your interviewers about the new location and their recommendations. If you have a family that would be moving with you, ask about potential childcare, if it is offered by the fellowship.
How would you address enabling behaviors directed at patients who lack financial independence?
Uncovers perceptions about influence and accountability.