"Tell me about yourself" interview q

[Jess8000]

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So I did a search and couldn't find anything on SDN about answering this common interview question. I can't help thinking, "well, what exactly do you want to know" whenever I'm asked this question.

From searching the net, I've found advice that includes focus, use real strengths, follow with examples, etc.

I'm wondering how other people answered this question, since if its at the beginning, it can really set the tempo for the rest of the interview.

How long was your answer? What did you mention (generally)? What did you avoid? Did you present it like a time-line? etc.

Any tips please? Thanks.

 

[Cataract]

There have been been threads about this actually. In any case, the interviewer is looking to open the conversation. Just talk about things you can elaborate on like extracurriculars, volunteer work, coursework, your major. I start off with my major and my school and take it from there.

 

[0Complications]

I find the best way to answer this question is:

Well, I'm 4'9" have brownish eyes and a peg leg...

Or just say what comes naturally to you. If you feel it's an odd question then I don't see any harm in asking the interviewer to be more specific. I think you're reading way too much into the question though. I think this question really is directed at you to find out a little bit about yourself so the interviewer doesn't have to read through your entire file. It's a lazy question, but one that you should take full advantage of. You can talk about anything you want at this point. Look at it as a 4 colored wild card in UNO. You can use it to bring up anything. So pray you get this question, not that you don't.

 

[MassTransport]

Unless this is a group interview, I wouldn't suggest opening into a long narrative. Be brief and casual. Talk about what you're doing in college and maybe where you grew up. Your interviewer will take it from there.

 

[armybound]

I always just respond with the whole "I'm a graduate student from Texas, getting my degree in..." and sometimes mention my family, hobbies, etc.

 

[FootballFan14]

I'd suggest telling about non-medically related aspects of yourself. The whole rest of the interview is going to be based on your medical interests. This is the time to show you are a real person and not a pre-med zombie. Talk about siblings, places you've lived, family, hobbies outside of medicine, sports you play, etc.

 

[Jess8000]

thanks for the replies everyone....

I think I'll stay away from information overload and keep it interesting and fun. Not more than a minute or (max) two.

 

[Jolie South]

I do a brief timeline including education, hobbies, and my Peace Corps experience.

 

[taponthecloud]

I do a brief timeline including education, hobbies, and my Peace Corps experience.

Please, tell me more about your Peace Corps experience. When did you have the time to fit this in?

 

[ChubbyChaser]

Well, I'm 4'9" have brownish eyes and a peg leg...

Have you met me before?