self inventory prompts
If you are a CaRMS candidate, you could use this list to help surface your memories and specific examples or stories in preparation for the Casper exam, as well as traditional and MMI style interviews, all of which may include questions about your lived experiences. It may also be a good list to use as you think of creative ideas / stories for your personal statements.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
A time when you said no to a friend’s request
A time when you listened and it changed the outcome
A time when you told someone a hard truth
A time when you helped two parties solve a disagreement
A time when you disagreed respectfully with a peer
A time when you disagreed with a boss or supervisor
A time when you had to deliver bad news
A time when you had to set a boundary with someone
A time when you were misunderstood by somebody else
A time when you had to deliver feedback constructively
A time when you built rapport with someone very different from you
A time when you struggled to communicate and had to adjust your approach
A time when you helped someone feel heard or valued
A time when you navigated a miscommunication
A time when empathy changed your response to a situation
Leadership and Teamwork
A time when you used teamwork to solve a problem
A time when you stepped into a leadership role unexpectedly
A time when you delegated tasks effectively
A time when you persevered through a challenging circumstance
A time when you influenced others through example
A time when you took responsibility for a team’s mistake
A time when you had to motivate yourself to do something you didn’t want to do
A time when you balanced the needs of a group with your own priorities
A time when you advocated for a fair process or change
Ethics, Integrity, and Values
A time when you had to enforce a rule or policy
A time when you witnessed unethical behavior and decided how to respond
A time when your values were tested
A time when humility mattered more than confidence
A time when you realized your values had changed
A time when you acted with integrity even when no one was watching
A time when you recognized your own bias and made a change
Growth and Resilience
A time when you failed
A time when learning something new was difficult
A time when you accepted limitations and adjusted your goals
A time when you were given critical feedback
A time when you failed to meet a deadline
A time when you quit something
A time when you bounced back from a setback
A time when you realized failure led to growth
A time when you had to adapt quickly
A time when you made an important decision under pressure
A time when you sought feedback proactively
A time when you managed uncertainty with limited information
A time when you apologized to somebody
A time when you realized you needed help and reached out
Respect, Fairness, and Inclusion
A time when you felt excluded
A time when you were treated unfairly
A time when you witnessed an act of kindness
A time when you spoke up for somebody who wasn’t being heard
A time when you contributed to making a space more inclusive
A time when you challenged a stereotype or assumption
A time when you learned from someone with a different background
A time when you reflected on your privilege or perspective
Cultural and Adaptability Experiences
A time when you experienced a cultural difference that broadened your understanding
A time when you had to adjust to a new environment
A time when you had to learn something independently
A time when you adapted to a culturally sensitive situation
Self-Reflection and Purpose
A time when you changed your mind about something
A time when you were proud of someone else
A time when you felt a sense of purpose in your work or personal life
A time when you had to compromise to reach a solution
A time when you made a risk that paid off
A time when it was important for you to earn somebody’s trust
A time when you stood up for yourself
An unpopular opinion you held
A time when self-care prevented burnout
A time when your resilience was tested in a professional setting
A time when you modeled professionalism under stress
