Essential OB GYN Residency Interview Questions for Caribbean IMGs

Understanding the OB GYN Residency Interview as a Caribbean IMG

Interview season is often the most stressful part of the residency journey—especially if you are a Caribbean IMG. Programs know that Caribbean medical school residency applicants can be highly motivated and clinically strong, but they also want reassurance about training quality, board readiness, and communication skills.

For Obstetrics & Gynecology, the stakes feel even higher: OB GYN is a hands-on specialty with high acuity, vulnerable patients, and intense team-based work. Your residency interview is where programs decide if they can trust you with their patients and whether you will thrive on their labor floor, in the OR, and in clinic.

This guide will walk you through:

• The most common OB GYN residency interview questions asked of Caribbean IMGs
• Why programs ask them
• How to structure strong responses
• Sample answer frameworks and phrases you can adapt
• Special focus on behavioral interview medical questions and “tell me about yourself”

Throughout, we’ll also highlight specific considerations for SGU residency match and other Caribbean schools, so you can present your background with confidence and clarity.

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Core “Get to Know You” Questions (and How to Nail Them)

These questions appear in almost every interview and often set the tone for the whole conversation. As a Caribbean IMG, this is your chance to establish credibility early.

1. “Tell me about yourself”

This is arguably the single most important question. Many interviewers decide their overall impression of you here. Yet most applicants ramble or recite their CV.

Goal: Provide a 60–90 second, structured narrative that connects who you are to why you belong in OB GYN—without sounding memorized.

Use a 3-part framework: Present → Past → Future

1. Present – Who you are now, in your current role
2. Past – Key experiences that brought you here
3. Future – What you’re seeking in residency and career

Example structure (Caribbean IMG, OB GYN–focused):

• Present:
  “I’m a fourth-year medical student at [Caribbean School], currently completing my OB GYN sub-internship at [US hospital], where I’ve especially enjoyed managing laboring patients and participating in complex gynecologic surgeries.”

• Past:
  “I grew up in [country/city] and was initially drawn to women’s health while volunteering at a prenatal clinic during college. During medical school in the Caribbean, I sought out as much OB GYN exposure as possible—serving as the OB GYN interest group president and completing electives in high-risk obstetrics, where I gained significant experience with antepartum counseling and postpartum care.”

• Future:
  “Looking ahead, I’m excited to train in a rigorous OB GYN residency where I can become a strong generalist with a focus on underserved populations. I’m particularly interested in programs with strong high-risk obstetrics and opportunities for resident involvement in quality improvement.”

Caribbean IMG Tip:
Subtly signal the strengths of your Caribbean training—volume of pathology, multicultural environment, resilience—without sounding defensive:

“Training in the Caribbean and then transitioning to clinical rotations in the U.S. has given me adaptability and comfort caring for diverse patient populations, which I think is highly valuable in OB GYN.”

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2. “Walk me through your CV” / “Tell me more about your journey to medicine”

This often follows “tell me about yourself” or replaces it.

Strategy:

• Hit major transitions: Undergrad → Caribbean medical school → US rotations → Key OB GYN milestones
• Use short, 1–2 sentence summaries for each phase
• Emphasize choices and growth, not just chronology

Example points to include as a Caribbean IMG:

• Why you chose a Caribbean medical school
• How you adapted academically and clinically
• How you secured and excelled in US clinical rotations
• Where OB GYN emerged as your clear interest

Keep this answer under 2–3 minutes; you’ll have time to elaborate later.

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3. “Why OB GYN?” / “What draws you to obstetrics and gynecology?”

Every obstetrics match decision hinges in part on this question. Programs want to be sure you’re choosing OB GYN thoughtfully, not as a second choice.

Use the HEAD framework: Head, Experiences, Alignment, Direction

1. Head (Intellectual) – What intellectually excites you:

   • Mix of medicine and surgery
   • High-acuity obstetrics, complex gynecology
   • Longitudinal care across the life span

2. Experiences – Specific clinical moments that confirmed your interest

   • First delivery you assisted with
   • Managing postpartum hemorrhage
   • Counseling a patient about contraception or cancer screening

3. Alignment – Match between your personality/values and OB GYN

   • You like fast-paced environments, teamwork, advocacy, procedural work

4. Direction – Future goals in the field

   • Generalist in underserved care, family planning, MFM, minimally invasive surgery, etc.

Sample answer elements:

“OB GYN combines everything I love about medicine: continuity of care, high-stakes decision-making, and procedural work in both the OR and on L&D. During my OB GYN rotations in both the Caribbean and the U.S., I saw how deeply trust-based the physician–patient relationship is—particularly in reproductive health and childbirth. Those experiences made it clear that I want a career where I can advocate for women’s health, navigate complex ethical decisions, and be present for both the most joyful and the most challenging moments.”

Caribbean-specific add-on:

“In the Caribbean, I saw firsthand the impact of limited access to prenatal care and family planning, and it shaped my desire to work in systems that reduce disparities in maternal health.”

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Behavioral Interview Medical Questions: STAR Your Way Through

Programs are increasingly using behavioral interview medical questions to predict how you’ll function as a resident. The idea: past behavior predicts future performance.

Nearly all these questions can be handled with one structure: STAR

• Situation – Brief context
• Task – Your role or responsibility
• Action – What you did, skills used
• Result – Outcome and reflection

4. “Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a team member”

Programs care less about the conflict itself and more about how you communicate, de-escalate, and reflect.

Pitfalls to avoid:

• Throwing others under the bus
• Claiming you’ve “never had conflict” (not believable)
• Over-focusing on blame instead of resolution

Example STAR framework (for an OB GYN setting):

• S: During your L&D rotation, a senior resident dismissed your concern about a non-reassuring fetal heart tracing.
• T: Your task was to advocate for the patient while respecting hierarchy.
• A: You calmly restated your concern, referenced objective criteria, and suggested reviewing the strip together with the attending.
• R: The team reassessed, adjusted management, and later your senior appreciated your advocacy; you learned how to respectfully speak up for patient safety.

You don’t need dramatic stories—common, everyday conflicts (scheduling, communication gaps) are fine if they show maturity and professionalism.

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5. “Tell me about a time you made a mistake”

This is one of the toughest residency interview questions—but it’s extremely common.

What they’re assessing:

• Self-awareness
• Accountability
• Ability to learn and improve
• Honesty (without revealing anything that suggests unsafe practice)

Guidelines:

• Choose a real but non-catastrophic mistake (e.g., documentation error, communication lapse, time management issue).
• State clearly: “I made a mistake” (take ownership).
• Emphasize what you learned and specific steps you now take to avoid similar issues.

Example (clinical, but not dangerous):

• S: On your OB GYN rotation, you forgot to follow up on a lab result for a patient with suspected preeclampsia, causing a delay in review.
• T: Your responsibility was to track critical labs and relay them promptly.
• A: Once you realized it, you immediately notified the resident, apologized, and ensured the result was acted upon. Afterwards, you implemented a tracking system (checklist or EMR reminder) for high-risk labs.
• R: No harm came to the patient, but you became more meticulous with follow-up, and your attending later commended your improved reliability.

Avoid stories that imply dishonesty, negligence, or ethical violations.

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6. “Describe a challenging patient interaction and how you handled it”

In OB GYN, you will frequently encounter anxious, distressed, or mistrustful patients. Programs want to know you can remain calm, empathetic, and effective.

Example themes:

• Patient refusing medically indicated C-section
• Teen pregnancy with family conflict
• Patient upset about wait times or perceived disrespect
• Cultural or language barriers in discussing contraception

STAR with a patient-centered focus:

• S: A laboring patient refusing recommended intervention due to fear.
• T: Need to communicate risk and respect autonomy.
• A: You took time to listen first, validated her fears, explained risks/benefits in plain language, involved her support person, and confirmed understanding.
• R: She made an informed decision (whether or not she agreed with the recommendation), and the team documented the discussion; you learned the power of slowing down and listening.

Make sure your story highlights empathy, clarity, and respect for patient autonomy—crucial in obstetrics and gynecology.

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OB GYN-Specific Clinical and Ethical Questions

OB GYN interviews frequently explore how you think through common clinical and ethical scenarios, even if they don’t expect you to know every guideline in detail.

7. “What OB GYN experiences have been most meaningful to you?”

Go beyond “delivering babies was amazing.” Choose 1–2 concrete stories that showcase:

• Maturity
• Understanding of risk and complexity
• Awareness of patient emotions
• Insight about the field

Examples:

• Managing a shoulder dystocia as part of the team
• Supporting a patient through pregnancy loss
• Participating in a gynecologic oncology case
• Observing or assisting in a complex laparoscopic procedure

Be specific: describe what you saw, how you felt, what you learned, and how it reinforced your desire for an obstetrics match.

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8. “How do you handle stress, especially in acute situations like on L&D?”

OB GYN is high-pressure: hemorrhage, fetal distress, unplanned emergencies.

Answer framework:

1. Acknowledge that OB GYN is inherently stressful.
2. Give a clinical example of maintaining composure.
3. Describe your on-shift strategies for functioning under pressure (prioritization, communication, mental checklists).
4. Describe your off-shift strategies (sleep, exercise, support systems, reflection) that maintain long-term resilience.

Link back to a concrete OB GYN scenario (postpartum hemorrhage, cord prolapse, eclampsia code), keeping patient confidentiality.

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9. “How would you approach counseling a patient who refuses recommended treatment?”

This question is key in OB GYN, where you frequently navigate autonomy and risk.

Core points to include:

• Respect for autonomy
• Ensuring informed decision-making
• Clear, non-judgmental communication
• Documentation and team involvement

Example outline:

“First, I’d make sure the patient fully understands the situation—using plain language, checking for comprehension, and addressing any misconceptions. I’d explore her reasons for refusal, whether they are cultural, fear-based, or related to past trauma. I would involve interpreters or support persons as appropriate, and I’d explain risks and benefits without coercion. If the patient is decisional, I would respect her choice, document the discussion thoroughly, and communicate the plan with the team.”

You don’t need to resolve a complex ethics debate, but you must show you understand consent, autonomy, and communication.

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Caribbean IMG–Specific Questions: Addressing Your Path Head-On

Caribbean graduates, including those coming from SGU, Ross, AUC, and others, are often asked some version of “Why Caribbean?” or “Tell me about your path to U.S. residency.” How you answer can significantly impact your Caribbean medical school residency chances.

10. “Why did you choose a Caribbean medical school?”

Do not sound apologetic or defensive. Programs already know you went; now they want your self-awareness and maturity.

Effective approach:

• Briefly and honestly explain your decision (grades, timing, opportunities).
• Emphasize how you maximized the opportunity and what you gained.
• Connect it to your readiness for residency.

Example:

“I did not receive a U.S. medical school acceptance on my first application cycle, but I remained strongly committed to becoming a physician. After carefully researching options, I chose [School] because of its strong record of SGU residency match–like outcomes and established clinical affiliations in the U.S. Once there, I treated it as a second chance: I focused on building a strong foundation in the basic sciences, sought out leadership roles, and worked hard to earn U.S. clinical rotations where I consistently received strong evaluations. The experience has made me resilient, adaptable, and very intentional about my career in OB GYN.”

Avoid blaming others or sounding bitter. Own your story and show growth.

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11. “What challenges have you faced as a Caribbean IMG and how have you overcome them?”

This is where you demonstrate resilience, a key trait for any resident.

Common themes you can mention:

• Adapting to a new country and healthcare system
• Navigating visa issues (if applicable)
• Limited resources and having to self-advocate for rotations or research
• Balancing step preparation with heavy clinical schedules

STAR-style answer:

• S: Describe the specific challenge (e.g., difficulty securing early OB GYN exposure in the U.S.).
• T: What was at stake (your competitiveness for obstetrics match).
• A: Steps you took (networking, emailing programs, seeking mentors, extra observerships).
• R: Outcomes (letters of recommendation, improved clinical competence, publications, personal growth).

End with a line connecting this resilience to how you’ll handle residency demands.

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12. “How have your Caribbean and U.S. experiences prepared you for OB GYN residency?”

This question allows you to reframe your background as a strength.

Key talking points:

• High patient volume and diverse pathology in the Caribbean
• Exposure to limited-resource settings—valuable for adaptability and creativity
• Transition to U.S. system: EMR, multidisciplinary teams, quality/safety culture
• Communication skills with multicultural, multilingual patients

Sample phrasing:

“Caribbean training exposed me to a broad range of pathology and often required practicing in resource-limited settings, where I learned to think critically and prioritize essentials. My U.S. OB GYN rotations gave me experience with high-risk obstetrics, standardized protocols, and simulation-based training. Together, these experiences have prepared me to adapt quickly, communicate effectively with diverse patients, and function well within a U.S. academic OB GYN program.”

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Program Fit, Career Goals, and Closing Questions

Interviewers will also probe your long-term fit and how you think about your future in OB GYN.

13. “What are your career goals in OB GYN?”

You don’t need a perfectly defined subspecialty, but you should have direction.

Consider including:

• Interest in general OB GYN vs. fellowship (MFM, REI, Gyn Onc, MIGS, Family Planning)
• Academic vs. community practice
• Teaching, research, public health, or leadership interests

Example:

“Right now, I see myself as a general OB GYN working in a community or academic-affiliated setting that serves a diverse, possibly underserved population. I’m particularly interested in high-risk obstetrics and could see myself exploring fellowship in Maternal–Fetal Medicine, but I want solid exposure in residency before deciding. Wherever I end up, I’d like to stay involved in medical student teaching and quality improvement related to maternal morbidity and mortality.”

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14. “Why this program?” / “What are you looking for in a residency?”

Programs need to know you’re not sending generic answers to everyone.

Before interviews:

• Research each program’s:
  • Patient population
  • Strengths (MFM, MIGS, family planning, simulation, global health)
  • Call structure, rotation sites
  • Resident culture and wellness initiatives

In your answer:

• Reference 2–3 program-specific features
• Connect them directly to your goals and values
• Mention how you will contribute (teaching, QI, research, diversity)

Avoid vague statements like “I like your location and your reputation.”

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15. “Do you have any questions for us?”

This is not optional. Asking thoughtful questions—from program culture to education structure—shows genuine interest and preparation.

Examples of strong questions:

• “How does your program support residents interested in quality improvement or research within OB GYN?”
• “What differentiates your graduates when they apply for fellowships or generalist positions?”
• “How would residents describe the culture here, especially on L&D during busy nights?”
• “Are there specific qualities you’ve seen in your most successful residents that you think I should work on developing during training?”

Avoid questions you could easily answer by reading the website (vacation policy, basic salary numbers).

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Practical Preparation Strategy for Caribbean IMGs

Knowing the common questions is only half the battle. You need a deliberate plan.

Step 1: Build Your Story Bank

Make a list of 8–10 experiences that can be adapted to multiple behavioral questions:

• A time you led a team
• A time you had a conflict
• A time you made a mistake
• A time you went above and beyond
• A time you handled an ethical or difficult situation
• A time you adapted to limited resources (great for Caribbean context)
• A meaningful OB GYN patient interaction
• A stressful on-call or night shift experience

For each, outline the STAR points in brief bullets.

Step 2: Practice Out Loud

• Do mock interviews with friends, mentors, or through your school’s career office.
• Focus on sounding natural and conversational, not memorized.
• Record yourself answering “tell me about yourself,” “why OB GYN?” and “why this program?” and refine until your answers feel polished but genuine.

Step 3: Prepare for Common Residency Interview Questions

In addition to questions above, be ready for:

• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
• “How would your attendings describe you?”
• “Tell me about your research or a project you’re proud of.”
• “Where else are you interviewing?” (answer broadly, not with a detailed list)
• “Is there anything in your application you’d like to explain?” (gaps, scores, red flags)

Frame weaknesses as areas for growth with a plan for improvement (e.g., delegating, time management, speaking up).

Step 4: Address USMLE or Academic Concerns Proactively (If Applicable)

If you have:

• Step score below average
• Exam failures
• Extended time in medical school

Be candid, succinct, and focused on remediation:

“I failed Step 1 on my first attempt. Looking back, I underestimated how different board-style questions are from course exams. I met with advisors, changed my study strategy to focus on practice questions and spaced repetition, and passed on my second attempt with a significantly improved score. Since then, I have successfully passed [other exams], and my clinical evaluations consistently note strong knowledge and preparation.”

Then pivot to current strengths (recent performance, clinical comments, letters).

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FAQs: OB GYN Residency Interviews for Caribbean IMGs

1. Are interview questions different for Caribbean IMGs compared to US grads?

The core OB GYN questions are similar—“tell me about yourself,” “why OB GYN?”, behavioral scenarios, and program fit. However, Caribbean IMGs are more likely to be asked:

• “Why did you choose a Caribbean medical school?”
• “How have you prepared for U.S. clinical practice?”
• “What challenges have you faced as an IMG?”

Programs are not trying to “trap” you; they’re assessing your insight, maturity, and readiness. Prepare honest, confident answers that emphasize growth and resilience.

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2. How much should I talk about being from SGU or another Caribbean school in my answers?

Mention your school naturally when describing your training or experiences, but avoid overfocusing on defending Caribbean education. For SGU residency match and other Caribbean paths, it’s helpful to:

• Highlight strengths (patient volume, diversity, adaptability)
• Show how you successfully transitioned to U.S. rotations
• Emphasize strong evaluations, letters, or research

You don’t need to bring it up in every answer—only when it’s relevant.

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3. What if I get a clinical question I don’t know how to answer?

Some interviews include basic clinical or ethical questions. If you’re unsure:

1. Don’t guess wildly.
2. Verbalize your reasoning process—what you would prioritize, what you’d want to know, how you’d involve the team.
3. Be comfortable saying, “I’m not completely sure, but my approach would be…”

Programs know you’re a student, not a fellow. They care more about your thinking, humility, and safety mindset than perfect recall of every guideline.

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4. How can I stand out as a Caribbean IMG in an OB GYN interview?

You stand out not by having a “unique” story, but by offering a clear, consistent picture of who you are:

• A compelling, concise “tell me about yourself”
• Specific OB GYN stories that demonstrate empathy, composure, and teamwork
• Honest reflection on your Caribbean path and what you’ve learned
• Thoughtful questions that show you understand each program
• A professional, calm demeanor that suggests you’ll be reliable on L&D at 3 a.m.

If you combine these elements with genuine enthusiasm for women’s health, you will leave a strong impression—and meaningfully improve your chances of a successful obstetrics match as a Caribbean IMG.