Interview help please...

[Cotterpin_Doozer]

Hey All,

I wondering if I could get some insight as to answering touchy questions effectively. In terms of the controversial subjects that may come up in an interview such as cloning, abortion, stem cells etc. if you are asked what your opinion is, or for example what you would do if a patient asked you to euthanize them, what exactly is the interviewer looking for?

I think I would give an answer that showed my knowledge of the topic from both sides, but are they looking for a definite opinion? i.e. the 'right' answer that goes by the law currently??? or are they looking to see that you have evaluated all aspects objectively?

Thanks for your help everyone :D
CD

[theplatypusman]

In my interview the interviewer was more interested in the fact I actually had an opinion or stance. Concerned with me being aware of the ethical dilemmas that I would face in the field and aware of the gray areas (e.g. euthanasia). From what I have read about med school interviews in general it is suggested to avoid extreme positions, especially not well thought out ones.

[daguru]

yeah, from what i've read and from the experience of a friend, stay away from extreme viewpoints. it may be tough if you actually HAVE an extreme viewpoint, but for the most part, what i did was give data and ideas on both sides of the issue, and then at the end i gave my personal opinion, but also said that 'of course, regardless of my opinion, the law says.... and so it would be my duty to follow the law...'

i dont think most med schools are looking for a rebel who is going to make headlines for breaking the ethical laws that guide doctors...