A common medical school interview question that you’re likely to face is: Why do you want to be a doctor? Why Medicine?
Whilst this answer should be unique to you, and unfortunately we can’t tell you why you want to do medicine, this article will aid you in expressing this articulately to your interviewers.
We will also discuss common mistakes students make and will go over some model questions and answers.
The best way to revise for UK Medical School Interviews is to practice! Try our 1:1 mock interviews for detailed and personal feedback to ensure success at your interviews!
Why Do You Want To Be A Doctor? - Key Points For Your Answers
Demonstrate your understanding of the demands and expectations of a medical degree and career as a doctor.
Provide specific examples from your own experiences that support your motivations for pursuing medicine.
Articulate your understanding of the importance of compassion, science, and ethics in medical practice.
Refrain from using overused phrases in your response.
Describe the unique aspects of medicine that distinguish it from other healthcare professions.
👉🏻 Read more: Ultimate Medicine Interview Preparation Guide 2024
Why Medicine? - What Interviewers Are Looking For In Your Answer
Admissions panels in UK medical schools are looking for a response that goes beyond a simple desire to become a doctor. They want to see your genuine passion, personal connections to healthcare, and a strong commitment to patient care.
Your answer should also reflect your understanding of the responsibilities and ethical aspects of the medical profession. It's crucial to show alignment with the medical school's values and mission and explain how your long-term goals fit into the broader healthcare context.
Medical school interviewers will assess your communication skills, humility, and ability to handle challenging scenarios.
👉🏻 Read more: 280 Medical School Practice Interview Questions
👉🏻 Read more: Answering MMI Medical Ethics Questions
Medicine Background & Motivation Questions - Suggested Framework
When answering this question, the best students will answer coherently and fluently. The best way to make your prioritisation answers fluent is to use a framework.
Point
Explanation
Back up with anecdotal evidence
For each point you make, explain thoroughly how it links to medicine and a career as a doctor, and then back this up with evidence from your personal experiences.
This will prevent you from waffling or giving vague responses to your interviewer.
👉🏻 Read more: 7 Tips to Ace Your MMI Medical School Interview
Why Medicine? Suggested Structure
We would normally recommend making three points, these could be as follows:
Your initial spark - what led you to pursue medicine in the first place?
What confirmed this for you - this is usually your work experience/volunteering
What excites you about the career - see below for ideas, could be something you saw, a particular career path or research.
Why Medicine - Model Answer
Initial Spark
My interest in medicine is deeply personal. I remember when my grandfather was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. As a child, watching him navigate the challenges of his condition was both heart-wrenching and enlightening. It wasn't just the tremors or the difficulty in movement; it was the resilience and determination he showed in confronting the disease.
But what truly moved me was the relationship he developed with his doctors. They were more than just medical professionals; they became his allies in this battle, guiding and supporting him at every step. This experience with my grandfather underscored the profound impact that doctors can have, not just in treating a condition but in truly being there for their patients.
Confirmation from Experience
My time in sixth form provided me with the opportunity to shadow doctors in the A&E department. A particularly memorable instance was witnessing a young child, about ten years old, being brought in with acute respiratory distress.
The doctors' calm yet swift actions, diagnosing her with a severe asthma attack and administering the necessary treatments, were nothing short of remarkable. The gratitude in the eyes of her parents, and the child's recovery, solidified my belief that medicine is more than just a profession; it's a calling, a chance to make a tangible difference.
Excitement about the career
The journey of accompanying a patient, from the initial diagnosis to their eventual recovery, holds immense appeal for me. The thought of being in a position where my actions and decisions can bring solace and healing is both humbling and invigorating.
Furthermore, the ever-evolving landscape of medical science, with its constant innovations and discoveries, promises a career filled with challenges, learning, and the profound satisfaction of making a difference.
👉🏻 Read more: Medicine Interview MMI Topics
Why do you want to be a doctor? - Ideas for discussion
Some students have a very clear idea why they want to study medicine, whilst others might be more unsure, but just know that it appeals to them. Interviewers will be unhappy with a vague response - they want to know what makes you passionate!
Think clearly about when you decided to apply for medicine, what made you choose it? Here are a few suggestions that may help you develop a clearer discussion:
Role Models in Medicine - whether this be a family member, a friend, or someone you’ve read about (avoid fictional characters!). Pinpoint what about them inspires you.
The importance of empathy and compassion within medicine - Healthcare degrees are very different to other university courses, in that the sort of person you are matters hugely. You must be empathic, compassionate and trustworthy to make a good doctor.
Personal Experiences - was there an experience in your life which made you want to pursue a healthcare career? This could be an encounter or situation affecting yourself, or others that you have witnessed.
The wide scope of practice within medicine - Medicine contains such a huge range of specialities that there’s a wide range of areas that you can learn about, and choose to specialise in.
👉🏻 Read more: Medicine NHS Hot Topics 2024
Why Medicine? Common mistakes students make in their answers
Medical school interviewers will see hundreds of prospective students, each answering the same questions. To come across as genuine and passionate about medicine, you should avoid making these common mistakes:
Using clichés - these will make you appear disingenuous. Read the section below to find out more about what the common medical school interview answer clichés are.
Not answering the question - Answering the question you want to answer, rather than the one your interviewers gave you is one of the biggest pitfalls at medical school interviews. This shows that you’re a bad listener, or have an avoidant tendency. Interviewers would prefer you take your time to think before answering, rather than jumping in with an answer which isn’t relevant.
Rehearsing too much - Whilst it’s advisable to use Mock Interviews in your preparation, being able to unnaturally recite answers will also make you appear disingenuous and insincere in your answer. Practice answering questions by making rough notes on what points you’d like to make, but don’t learn these word for word.
Social Status - Using the perceived social status of doctors as an important factor in choosing medicine - hopefully, this is self-explanatory!
👉🏻 Read more: NHS Core Values 2024
Why Medicine? - Example Clichés To Avoid In Your Answer
As previously mentioned, you should avoid using clichés in your answer to “Why do you want to be a doctor?”. Many of these you will be familiar with, but it’s worth reminding yourself so you know what NOT to say when your mind goes blank!
Child’s Play
“I’ve wanted to do medicine since I was born”,
“Medicine was my first love”,
“I used to dress up with a stethoscope when I was a child”
As did a lot of people, I’m sure. This doesn’t mean that you’d make a good doctor or would enjoy studying medicine at University. You need to show the interviewers why you want to do medicine now instead - what have you seen or done more recently that made you interested in Medicine?
Love for Learning
“I love science, and find the human body fascinating”,
“I love learning”
This answer is too generic for a medical school interview. Whilst having an appreciation of science can be a contributor to a student enjoying medicine, you need to be more specific in your answer. Connect the ideas of learning about the anatomy of the human body, to the pathophysiology of disease, and then to the humanistic aspects of medicine, such as how we provide individualised treatment for better quality of life.
You need to define what makes medicine different from every other science degree, and why that appeals to you.
Helping Hand
“I want to help people”
Again, this answer is much too vague. There are many careers which help people, and whilst wanting to help people is a valid reason to pursue a medical career, you should draw from your experiences to express this more passionately.
Parents
Some students have parents who are also doctors. We would generally go against mentioning this either on your personal statement or at your medicine interview. Although this can often be fantastic for motivation, and provide great perspectives on what being a doctor is like, it should never really feature as one of the main reasons why you want to do medicine.
👉🏻 Read more: 7 Tips to Ace Your Medical School Interview
Why do you want to be a doctor? - Demonstrating Understanding Of the Degree and Career
In your answer, you should demonstrate to the interviewers that you are aware of what a career in medicine entails.
This includes but is not limited to:
Antisocial work hours - as a doctor you will be expected to work nights, evenings and weekends. Whilst it may be hard to spin this into a positive in your interview, acknowledgement of it will show your interviewers that you have a realistic expectation of the job.
Patient-centred care - As a doctor, all care you provide a patient should be in their best interests. This will require both ethical reasoning and empathy. This may be something which appeals to you.
Continuous Professional Development - In a career in medicine, you’ve never finished learning. Guidelines are updated regularly, as new evidence is published - along with new conditions and treatments being developed. As a doctor, you need to be aware of the changing sphere of medicine, and keep up to date on what developments have been made, in order to adjust your practice accordingly.
👉🏻 Read more: MMI Medicine Interview Tips Guide
Why have you chosen Medicine over Nursing and other healthcare degrees?
This is a common medicine interview question, asked by interviewers as a follow-up question to “Why Medicine?”. In your answer, you need to be careful not to dismiss the importance of these other job roles and their vital contribution to the Multidisciplinary Team.
To answer this question, you need to understand the different roles of each member of the healthcare team, and the differences between their responsibilities.
A few of these are listed below:
Doctors
Doctors are trained to diagnose a patient and create and deliver a management plan for patients.
They are the primary decision-makers in a patient’s care.
They have the power to order investigations and prescribe medications.
Nurses
Nurses provide direct patient care, support and administration of treatment.
They collaborate with doctors to implement patient care plans, as well as patient monitoring.
Physician’s Associates (PAs)
PAs work under the supervision of a doctor, to provide medical care to a patient
They are trained to take histories, perform examinations, interpret diagnostic tests and develop treatment plans
Currently, PAs are unable to prescribe medications.
Ultimately the main difference between these job roles is the level of responsibility. Perhaps reflect on your personal experiences to illustrate to your interviewers your understanding of the multidisciplinary team, and what stood out to you about the role of a doctor.
👉🏻 Read more: Medicine Interview Questions Guide 2024
Why Medicine - Model Answer
This is my why medicine answer, which got me a place at medical school in the UK:
"Model Answer for "Why Medicine?" Interview Question:
My journey toward a career in medicine began with a personal encounter with the healthcare system when a close family member was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. This experience opened my eyes to the complexities of chronic illnesses and the crucial role doctors play in managing them. It was during this time that I first appreciated the delicate balance between scientific knowledge and the human elements of empathy and understanding in medicine.
My interest led me to seek shadowing opportunities in various medical settings, including a busy hospital neurology ward and a community GP practice. In the hospital, I observed a team of healthcare professionals working seamlessly together, each playing a vital role in patient care. The doctors' leadership in coordinating treatments, the nurses' attentiveness to patient needs, and the specialists' input on complex cases highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication in a high-pressure environment. In the GP practice, I saw a different aspect of medicine - the continuity of care and the crucial role of primary care physicians in early diagnosis and health education. These experiences solidified my decision to pursue medicine, as I realised my passion for being part of a team that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives. This is what I want from my career.
To delve deeper into the scientific aspects of medicine, I engaged in an extended research project focused on the latest advancements in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. This project not only honed my analytical and critical thinking skills but also allowed me to appreciate the ongoing challenges and innovations in medical research. The project reinforced my desire to be part of a field that is constantly evolving and improving, driven by research and clinical discoveries. I hope to combine a career in academic research alongside my clinical activities, which is something I am really interested in.
These experiences collectively have shaped my understanding of what it means to be a doctor. Medicine, to me, is a profession that demands a unique blend of scientific acumen, interpersonal skills, and moral integrity. It requires the ability to lead and make difficult decisions, the capability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team, and the compassion to treat each patient with dignity and respect. My motivation for choosing medicine lies in my aspiration to embody these qualities and to make a meaningful impact on individuals' health and well-being."
This is a great Why medicine model answer which is about two minutes long, which is the length you should be aiming for.
Background & Motivation MMI Medicine Interview Questions To Practise
Motivation to Study Medicine Interview Questions
Here are some MMI Medicine Interview Questions related to background and motivation for you to practice:
What motivated you to pursue a career in medicine over other healthcare professions?
How have your personal experiences influenced your decision to study medicine?
Can you share a memorable interaction with a healthcare professional that solidified your decision to become a doctor?
Describe a moment when you realised the profound impact a doctor can have on a patient's life.
How do you envision your role in addressing the ever-evolving challenges of the UK's healthcare system?
Share an experience where you showcased empathy and compassion, two critical attributes for a medical professional.
How would you approach situations where your personal beliefs might conflict with medical ethics or patient wishes?
How do you plan on staying updated with the rapid advancements in medical technology and research?
In what ways do you think the UK's healthcare system can be improved, and how would you contribute to this change?
Describe a medical breakthrough that has inspired you recently and explain why.
How do you handle stress and pressure, especially in critical decision-making scenarios?
Which areas of medical research interest you the most, and why?
How do your personal values resonate with the ethos of UK medical schools?
Discuss a challenge you've overcome that has prepared you for the rigorous demands of medical school.
In your opinion, how should doctors navigate the balance between empathy for patients and clinical detachment?
👉🏻 Read more: 280 Medical School MMI Interview Questions
Medicine Motivation Interview: FAQs
What are the key motivations for pursuing medicine?
Many individuals are drawn to medicine due to a deep desire to help others, face challenging situations, and make a tangible impact on patients' lives. Additionally, the field of medicine offers continuous learning and the opportunity to specialise in numerous fields.
How can I best prepare for the "Why Medicine?" interview question?
Research the medical profession thoroughly, reflect on personal experiences that have shaped your decision, and practice articulating your motivations clearly and concisely.
How can I articulate my motivation for medicine without sounding clichéd?
Focus on unique personal experiences and lessons learned. Avoid general statements like "I want to help people" and instead delve deeper into specific instances that shaped your decision.
How Can I Showcase My Genuine Passion for Medicine in My Response?
Highlight personal experiences, influential moments, and sincere reasons that drive your passion for medicine. Avoid clichés and opt for authentic narratives.
What Mistakes Should I Avoid When Discussing My Motivation for Studying Medicine?
Avoid generic responses, overused clichés, and shallow answers. Showcase depth in your motivation, and steer clear of undermining other healthcare professions.
Should I Mention Personal Experiences That Led Me to Pursue Medicine?
Absolutely! Sharing personal experiences that sparked your interest in medicine can make your response compelling and authentic.
What Are Some Common Ethical Dilemmas Discussed in Medical School Interviews?
Ethical dilemmas like patient confidentiality, end-of-life care, and resource allocation may come up. Be prepared to discuss your understanding and potential solutions.
How should I structure my motivation to study medicine answer?
To effectively convey your motivation to study medicine, it's recommended to use a three-part framework. Start by discussing the initial spark that piqued your interest in medicine. Then, share personal experiences or volunteering roles that confirmed this interest for you. Finally, emphasise aspects of the medical field that excite you the most, be it innovative research, a specific medical pathway, or a particular observation.
How important is it to have medical experiences in my background when discussing motivation?
While medical experiences can strengthen your understanding and commitment, genuine motivation can also stem from non-medical experiences. It's more about the insights gained rather than the experience itself.
What Are the Most Effective Storytelling Techniques for Sharing Motivations to Study Medicine?
Use the SAR (Situation, Action, Result) method to craft compelling narratives, engaging interviewers and making your response memorable.
Can I Discuss Academic Challenges and How They Motivated Me to Study Medicine?
Yes, discussing academic challenges can showcase your resilience and determination, but ensure you emphasise how these experiences strengthened your commitment to medicine.
How Should I Handle Follow-Up Questions Related to My Motivation to Study Medicine?
Prepare for follow-up questions and ethical scenarios, maintaining a consistent narrative that aligns with your initial response. Use these opportunities to showcase your depth of understanding.
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