With the upcoming residency interviews, we at PRESENT e-Learning Systems invited a special guest editor to provide important advice. Chandler Hubbard, DPM is a first-year resident at the Chino Valley Medical Center podiatric residency in Chino, California. Dr Hubbard recently graduated valedictorian from the Western University College of Podiatric Medicine class of 2018 and is well-placed to provide our future colleagues with the best advice on how to be successful at the interviews, starting at the end of this week. Our thanks to Dr Hubbard for sharing her experiences with the community, and good luck to those of you interviewing in Texas.

Jarrod Shapiro, DPM

There is no denying that interviews can be daunting, especially after you spent the last two years sitting in a classroom studying for tests and boards never really socially interacting except during externships on your best behavior. There are a few key things that every person can do to prepare for podiatry residency interviews.

It doesn’t take a doctor to know that you have to know facts and knowledge in interviews and be able to think on your feet (no pun intended). From the moment you walk in the door, you’re being judged and you’re judging them, so follow these basic steps to be a more prepared candidate.

Dress to impress - No designer fashion, no flashy watches, and no heels you can’t stand to walk in. Make sure your shirt is pressed, your shoes are sensible, your hair is combed. Be presentable. Ladies, make sure your skirts are long enough when you sit down, and men make sure that your pants aren’t too tight. They want to be able to imagine you as a future representative of their program.

Have a good handshake and be aware of your “ticks” - They know you are going to be nervous – whether this is your first interview or your last. If you know that you are a leg tapper or a nail biter, try not to show your anxiety. Sit up straight, smile, and be genuine. Sit appropriately in what you have chosen to wear. Manners are one of the easiest things to control. Try not to say anything too “out there” or inappropriate. You need to find the perfect balance between being relaxed and being too stiff. Remember to thank them for offering you an interview and taking the time to meet with you.

Be able to talk about yourself, modestly - This was probably the most common question/request I was asked if I didn’t extern with the program. Keep in mind that they have to interview ALL day for three straight days. Make yourself memorable for GOOD reasons. Know your strengths and weaknesses and how to make your weaknesses into strengths. Also be able to talk about things you included in your CV or personal statement. If you have never visited a program that you are interviewing with, the only thing they may know about you is what is on your application. Know about the research you’ve done or be able to elaborate on events you’ve worked. Be able to ask questions about their program that are insightful. Show you have interest in their program and have done research about their program prior to entering the interview.

Be confident - This might be the most important piece of advice you receive. If you know the information, state it with confidence. They know you aren’t a doctor yet, but they want to see HOW you think. If you don’t know the answer to a question show them how you would think through the question to the right answer. Some questions may be there to trick you or lead you down a path, so don’t guess if you have no idea. It’s ok not to know, but tell them you will look it up and ask for an email to respond to them about it – then actually do it! It not only shows you are willing to do the work but that you’re dependable. Also know when to stop talking. If you continue to talk when you are not sure of an answer, don’t let them lead you down the wrong path or say something you don’t mean.

Always be on your game - You never know who is watching you. While at the location, you will see many of your classmates and previous co-externs. Stay professional. Remember that you are always being judged. Many programs will have social events where food and drink will be available to you. Don’t overdo it with the alcohol; many programs are looking to see that you are a responsible adult and know when and where not to overindulge. They may even ask you leading questions there while your guard is down.

Don’t believe everything you hear - Interviews can be incredibly stressful and other students and programs can make you believe you don’t have a chance at a program. Just because a classmate or co-extern tells you the program of your dreams wants THEM, does not mean it’s true. Gossip can be disheartening, so don’t gossip or listen to others gossip.

Show what you’ve learned - at locations you spent an externship month at, and voice your desire for programs you really want. The program or programs you really loved can’t read your mind – tell them why you loved their program and why you would be a good fit for their program.

Know the odds ARE forever in your favor! - The matching system favors the students. There are logarithms in place to help you get your top choices and YOU are choosing them more than THEY are choosing you. Make sure that wherever you rank, you’re willing to go. There’s always a chance that you don’t get your top choices, but keep in mind that you signed a contract that states you will go where you match. Rank programs based on what you desire, and don’t try to play the game.

Be yourself and be genuine - If you’re fake, they can tell. If you find yourself uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Remember that this is a location you have to be willing to spend the next three years at. These people will be your family and friends; you have to be comfortable with them and they have to be comfortable with you.

Have fun - Even though interviews can be nerve-racking, try to have fun. This is something you will remember for the rest of your life. Try to keep things in perspective. This is just another step on the road to becoming a podiatrist.

It’s almost over! These are steps that can be taken to prepare you for a successful interview season. This is one of the last events of medical school before real life starts, so enjoy it.

Have fun and good luck!

Chandler Hubbard, DPM, PGY-1
Chino Valley Medical Center