Why do you want to be a doctor?

"Why do you want to be a doctor?" - medical interviewer

Surely it's just a simple question with what should be a straightforward answer but undoubtedly it's a question that stumps almost everyone when they hear it for the first time. Of course, inside we all know why we want to pursue medicine but to be able to articulate our curiosity for science and our desire to channel our soft skills into helping the community, is another story. The pressure to provide a perfect response to what could be a pivotal question in securing your medical seat can get the best of us. Here's a few tips:

1. Reflect on Your Motivation

Before you can answer the question effectively, take some time for introspection. Consider what has driven you toward a career in medicine. Think about personal experiences, influential mentors, or moments of realization that sparked your interest in becoming a doctor. Be honest with yourself, as sincerity in your response is key.

2. Showcase Your Passion

Passion is a driving force in medicine. Admissions committees want to see that you genuinely care about improving people's health and well-being. Express your passion in your response. Use anecdotes, if possible, to illustrate how your passion for medicine has manifested in your life. Did you volunteer at a hospital or shadow a physician? Share these experiences and how they ignited your enthusiasm.

3. Highlight Your Skills and Qualities

Being a doctor isn't just about knowledge; it requires specific skills and qualities like empathy, communication, problem-solving, and resilience. In your answer, link these attributes to your motivation. Explain how your unique qualities make you a suitable candidate for a career in medicine. For instance, if you have a knack for listening and empathizing with others, elaborate on how these traits will make you an excellent physician.

4. Show a Commitment to Service

Medicine is a service-oriented profession. Your answer should reflect your commitment to serving others. Discuss how you plan to contribute to society through your medical career. Talk about the impact you hope to make, whether it's by working in underserved communities, conducting research, or addressing specific healthcare disparities.

5. Address Personal Growth and Development

Admissions committees want to see that you're committed to personal growth and lifelong learning. Share how pursuing a career in medicine aligns with your desire for continuous improvement. Mention any challenges or obstacles you've faced on your journey and how they've shaped your determination to become a doctor.

6. Be Unique and Specific

Avoid clichés and generic responses. Instead, be specific and unique in your answer. Share personal stories or experiences that set you apart from other applicants. Your response should make you memorable to the admissions committee.

7. Connect Your Past to Your Future

Articulate how your past experiences and academic background have prepared you for a career in medicine. Discuss how your educational and life experiences have influenced your decision to pursue this path.

8. Stay Concise and Well-Structured

While you want to convey a comprehensive response, it's important to remain concise and well-structured. Avoid rambling or going off-topic. Use clear, straightforward language to convey your thoughts effectively. In conclusion, crafting a compelling response to the question, "Why do you want to be a doctor?" requires careful reflection and preparation. It's your opportunity to convey your passion, commitment, and suitability for a career in medicine. By showcasing your unique experiences, qualities, and aspirations, you can leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee and increase your chances of securing a spot in medical school.

For more in depth interview advice or personal statement drafting tailored specifically to you, please feel free to contact us on 07554 702937 or go ahead and book a free trial lesson.