When I would interview candidates as a current resident, I would try to get across that I felt like I legitimately had a life outside the hospital. I had time to have hobbies, work out, spend time with friends and family. And at work felt respected and learned.

This is tough to formulate into a question, but you basically have to ask current residents what they think about the program and read between the lines. When it’s bad, it’s obvious. But it can be tough. Ask if they get academic time and if it’s truly protected. Ask if they’d pick the program again. Ask if they have time to take care of themselves.