Interview preparation guide
Asking residents if they would choose the program again: residency interview preparation guide
AAMC's list of resident questions includes the strengths and weaknesses of the program and whether the resident would consider the same program if applying again. Plan how to ask and how to read the answers.
How to prepare
- 1
Ask both questions together
The AAMC list asks about the strengths and weaknesses of the program and, "Would you consider the same program if applying again?" Asking both gives you context for the answer to the second.
- 2
Listen for specifics
AAMC says to ask for specific examples that give a true understanding of the program. If an answer is general, ask what a recent week or rotation looked like.
- 3
Treat answers as accounts, not policy
A resident's answer reflects their own experience. Note it, compare it with other accounts and avoid treating any one answer as the program's official position.
A practical exercise
Strengths: [..]. Weaknesses: [..]. Would choose again: [..]. Example given: [..]. How it compares with others: [..].
This is an editorial exercise to adapt to your own interview, not a script or a program requirement.
What the source guidance supports
AAMC's list for other residents asks about strengths, weaknesses and whether they would consider the same program again.
The exercises and checklists are editorial applications of the cited guidance, not required program procedures or predictions of interview outcomes. Costs and formats vary by program, so follow your actual invitation and school guidance.
Mistakes to avoid
- Taking an enthusiastic answer as the whole story.
- Asking the question in a way that pressures the resident.
- Quoting a resident's answer back to the program.
Check your preparation
- Did I ask for an example?
- Did I ask more than one resident?
- Did I keep the answers private?
Questions for your practice review
- What are the program's strengths and weaknesses?
- What would you change?
- What surprised you after you started?
Common questions
Is it fair to ask about weaknesses?
It is on AAMC's resident-written list, so it is a recognised question. Ask it politely.
What if a resident will not answer?
Move on. Some people prefer not to answer, and this guide cannot say why.
Does a yes mean the program is right for me?
Not necessarily. Compare it with your own priorities.
Related guides
Sources
This page is general editorial guidance based on the sources above. It is not a prediction of any program's questions or a statement of its current policies.