DownloadIt is the most predictable question in a medicine interview, and still one of the hardest to answer well, because every applicant wants to help people and loves science. The interviewer is not looking for a unique reason. They are listening for evidence that you understand what the job is really like and still want it.
A simple structure
- The specific draw. What about a doctor’s role, rather than healthcare in general, appeals to you?
- One real experience that showed you this, told briefly.
- What you learnt about the reality, including something difficult.
- Why that makes you want it.
What to avoid
- “I want to help people.” True, but so do teachers, nurses and paramedics. Say what is specific to medicine.
- Long childhood stories. One sentence of background at most.
- Criticising other professions. Explaining why not nursing should never sound like nursing is lesser.
- A list of experiences. One experience, reflected on, beats five listed.
- Memorised lines. It is the question interviewers hear most, so rehearsed phrases stand out.
An example
“I want to be a doctor because I like the responsibility of making a decision with someone, not just for them. Shadowing in a GP surgery, I watched a doctor explain to a frightened patient that she had diabetes. She did not rush. She checked what the patient already understood and agreed a plan with her. I also saw how many patients the doctor saw that day and how little time there was. That pressure did not put me off. It showed me that being clear and kind under pressure is a skill, and it is one I want to spend my career getting better at.”
Follow-up questions to expect
Why not nursing?
What is specific to a doctor’s role, said with respect for nursing.
What did you find difficult about your work experience?
An honest answer shows insight.
What will you do if you do not get in?
Calm, realistic, still committed.
Frequently asked questions
How long should my answer to “Why medicine?” be?
Around a minute to a minute and a half for the first answer, then be ready for follow-ups. Practise it timed and out loud.
Can I say I want to help people?
Yes, but go further: say what about a doctor’s way of helping people appeals to you, with evidence.