Can you describe an experience with an attending physician you found challenging?
ExperienceChallenges
Purpose
This question checks how you handle authority and tough situations. They want to see if you stay professional, adapt, and learn from challenging experiences.
Tips
- Share a story where you faced a challenge but learned something valuable.
- Focus on how you responded positively, like seeking feedback or adjusting your approach.
- Use the STAR-L method: Situation, Task, Action, Result, Lessons Learned.
Common mistakes
- Don't badmouth the attending or be overly negative.
- Avoid saying you just 'endured' the situation without learning anything.
- Don't claim you 'challenged them back' in a confrontational way.
Background
Use STAR-L to structure responses to questions about your experiences: -Situation: Briefly set the scene - where/when and what was going on? -Task: What was your specific role or challenge in that situation? -Action: What you did - focus on your steps, decisions, and contributions. -Result: Share the outcome - ideally positive or meaningful. -Lessons Learned: Reflect on what you took away and how you’ve grown.