Can you walk me through what led to that failed exam result, what you learned from it, and how your approach has shifted since then?

Personal AttributesResidency CV

Purpose

This question digs into how you handle setbacks and learn from mistakes. Interviewers want to see if you can reflect on failures, take responsibility, and adapt your strategies for future success.

Tips

  • Be honest about the failure and avoid making excuses.
  • Clearly explain what led to the failure, showing self-awareness and analysis.
  • Share specific lessons learned and how your approach has changed since then.

Common mistakes

  • Don't downplay the failure or blame it on external factors.
  • Avoid vague answers; be specific about what you learned.
  • Don't just say you studied harder; explain the actionable changes you made.