Interview prep is an important part of the PA school application process, and often the only thing standing between you and acceptance into a program. As a result, it can be very anxiety provoking. I am hopeful that my tips and example questions and answers will provide you a starting point to develop your own answers, and make you feel more confident going into your interviews.
In general, the PA School interview is a chance for the prospective program to:
a) See how you carry yourself – Are you polite and engaged? Can you speak about your past experiences? Would you represent our school well and fit into our program?
b) Screen for jerks
Below is a list of my best interview tips and what I believe to be the most commonly asked interview questions. Pay attention to the “translation” section under each question. This is what the program is really asking. It is easy to get tripped up on specific questions, but a good strategy is to stop and ask yourself, “What are they really asking here?” which will help you form a great answer.
My General Tips
Tip #1: Confidence is key!
If a program chose to interview you, that means they saw potential in you. They feel you deserve to be there and so should you! Once you get the interview, you typically have a 1 in 3 to a 1 in 5 chance of being accepted depending on the program. These are pretty good odds! When in doubt, fake it ’til you make it. Strangers cannot tell the difference between “fake” or “real” confidence!
Tip #2: Practice but don’t memorize your answers.
You should have a general idea of what you want to say, and should limit answers to 1-2 minutes. This will help you feel less anxious and will show the school you cared enough to prepare. That being said, you don’t want to sound like a robot. I recommend practicing on your own and filming yourself so you can be aware of things like fidgeting and filler words (“um”, “like”, and touching your hair repeatedly). Secondly, I recommend conducting a “mock interview” with a friend, peer, guidance counselor, or PA mentor.
Tip #3: Pay attention to the small details.
Remember, first impressions are made in seconds! Get there early, iron your clothes, walk in confidently, introduce yourself by first and last name, and make eye contact.
Tip #4: You are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you!
Take into account how the program made you feel. Did you feel welcomed and wanted? Or did you feel unengaged and like a number? I took notes after each interview about things I liked and did not like about each program.
Q: Tell Me about Yourself
Translation: Where are you from? What’s your (brief) story?
My perfect formula for answering this question is to give some basic background, explain briefly how you ended up here, and share something unique about you that can act as a conversation starter.
Example 1:
“Thanks for asking! I grew up in Baltimore and moved to Florida 8 years ago to study biology at UF. I started working at UF medical center and realized my passion for medicine working in for an orthopedics group which is what led me here today. I hope to become an orthopedic PA one day! I love to try new recipes and spend time outdoors. I’m currently training for a half marathon (or reading this book/trying to perfect my lasagna recipe/whatever interests you)!”
Example 2:
“Hi! I actually grew up right here in Tampa! Before I decided to become a PA I was working as a biology teacher at a local high school. While I love teaching, I have always had a passion for medicine and decided several years ago to make the move even though I knew it would be challenging. I’m also a mom of a 3 and 5 year old and we love to spend time together as a family at the beach!”
Example 3:
“Prior to my aspirations of becoming a PA I was a medic in the US army. I always knew that when my deployments were over I’d want to continue my career in medicine, and I felt like becoming a PA was the natural next step. I would eventually like to be a PA in the armed forces as well. In my free time I love to compete in spartan races and try new restaurants!”
Q: Why do you want to become a PA?
Translation: Are you sure about this?
This is one of the most common questions asked, and while it seems fairly basic, it can be hard to describe in simple words what made you choose this path! I have put together what I consider to be two great response strategies:
1. A unique story or life event that made you want to become a PA
This could make you stand out if you have a short but interesting (and factual) anecdote. However, don’t feel the need to tell a story if this was not your journey!
“I have wanted work in medicine ever since I was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes as a child. Being in and out of appointments, I witnessed firsthand the difference a great provider can make on a patient’s care. The PA profession specifically interested me due to the opportunity to work across different fields throughout my career. As someone who has an interest in primary care as well as endocrinology given my diagnosis this really appealed to me.”
“Prior to considering the PA profession, I was working as a laboratory scientist for a local hospital system. Although I enjoy research, I feel like I am better suited for hands-on patient care. I feel ready to take on the additional responsibilities a provider role offers.”
2. Your interest in the field of science & medicine and the benefits of being a PA
This is the method I used which can be personalized to your Pre-PA journey!
“I was always drawn to the sciences during my schooling and really found a passion for medicine in the last several years of my education. While working as a CNA at Massachusetts General Hospital, I realized what a difference a great provider can make on a patient’s experience, and since then have wanted to become one myself. I want a career that combines my interest in medicine with the ability to make meaningful connections with patients. The PAs I have worked with speak very highly of their work-life balance which is something that is also important to me.”
Q: Why PA versus a physician or nurse practitioner?
Translation: Do you know the difference?
Similarities
All are clinicians who evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients. They can interpret tests and imaging and prescribe medications. NPs and PAs often apply to the same jobs and earn a similar salary. Below I have noted some key differences (and what I consider drawbacks) to the other professions.
Nurse Practitioners
Follow the “nursing model” of medicine which has a more holistic, bedside approach.
Choose a specialty before they enter school. This can be very limiting as you may not know where you’d like to practice if you’ve never experienced it.
Many complete the majority of their schooling online. This typically takes longer to finish and many feel that the continuity of education and rigor are lacking.
NPs can practice autonomously while PAs must work under a physician (for now!).
Physician Assistants
Follow the “medical model” which is based on “cause and effect” and more heavily emphasizes scientific mechanisms.
PAs gain knowledge in every field and then have the opportunity to work in any specialty they wish. They can change fields without obtaining any additional certifications. This is called “lateral mobility”.
Physicians
Undergo 8-10 years of additional schooling past undergrad, completing a residency, a fellowship, and taking boards within that specialty (changing fields is not really done).
Most physicians are not starting their career until well into their 30s.
With more responsibility comes more stress, and the work-life balance and job satisfaction among physicians is much lower than that of physician assistants or nurse practitioners. Physicians are statistically burnt out.
“I perused a degree in biology in undergrad as I have always loved science. The fact that PAs follow the medical model rather than the nursing model appeals to me. I also like that I would experience many different fields before choosing one, and would be able to start my career in my mid twenties. Additionally, I like the ability to work autonomously as a provider but also have the support of an overseeing physician. The PAs I have worked with and shadowed have great things to say about their work-life balance which is something that is important to me!”
Q: Why did you choose to apply to our program?
Translation: Did you research our program? Or did you rapid fire apply to anywhere and everywhere?
This one requires some research. Below are some suggestions:
- Mission Statement & Vision – How do you identify with this?
- Location – What hospitals do they partner with? Is your family close by which would offer additional support during your schooling?
- Unique aspects of the program – Do students participate in mission trips? Community outreach? Do they offer medical Spanish classes? Have partnerships with well known hospitals?
- Do you know someone in their program currently or an alumni who spoke highly of the program?
“Having lived and worked in Boston for the past 5 years, I am eager to become a provider in my own community. Your program specifically interested me due to its outreach programs that allow students to practice their skills as clinicians at a free clinic in Boston. I know you have partnerships with several large hospital systems in the area, including Massachusetts General Hospital where I previously worked, which was also a deciding factor for me. A provider I worked with in the past is an adjunct professor for your program and had nothing but great things to say about the camaraderie of the cohorts.”
Q: Why do you think you are a good fit for our program?
Translation: Why should we accept you? What are your strengths? Is there anything about you that makes you better than the 10 other people here today with similar grades as you?
List unique skills or experiences big or small!
Example 1:
“I believe my positive attitude and ability to connect with others would make me a great fit for your program. Having experienced several leadership roles in the past, I am not afraid to take initiative for the benefit of my peers. I know that camaraderie is important to the success of the class as a whole, and I really feel I could contribute in this way!”
Example 2:
“I feel that my experience as a medic in the US Army would bring a unique perspective to your program. Not many have had the chance to see the field medicine I have encountered. This combined with my eagerness to learn and strong work ethic would make me a great fit.”
Example 3:
“My experience as an LGBTQ+ person and my passion for advocating for medical access for this community would make me a great fit for your program! Diversity and inclusion are important topics in healthcare, and I hope to bring a unique perspective to the class to help classmates understand the challenges faced as a member of this community.”
Q: What is a weakness of yours?
Translation: Where do you have room to improve?
Choose something honest but not a deal breaker. No “I’m a perfectionist!”
Example 1:
“My confidence is something I am working on. The field of medicine can be intimidating, but I know I am hardworking and eager to learn, so I feel it is something I can improve upon as I work towards becoming a provider.”
Example 2:
“Developing a good work-life balance is something that I have struggled with in the past. One of my goals in entering PA school is to prioritize my physical and mental wellbeing. I learned the hard way that pulling all nighters is not conducive to my success. I’ve recently taken up running as a stress reliever, which is something I plan to keep in my routine for the long term.”
Example 3:
“ADHD is something I’ve struggled with throughout my schooling. Over time, I have found ways to manage it and perform to the best of my abilities. I used to think of this as a big weakness of mine, but over time I realized that not all brains are the same. PA school would of course challenge this for me, but I am confident that I have the support and strategies needed to succeed as I have in my undergrad years.”
Q: I see you had a “C” in Organic Chemistry. PA School is very rigorous, how do I know you can handle it?
Translation: Did you learn from your mistakes in undergrad? Can you handle the rigor of PA school courses?
Example 1:
“While I was completing my undergraduate studies I enrolled in extra courses in order to attempt to finish school a year early. In hindsight, this took away from my ability to put forth my best effort in every class, and because of that some classes suffered. Once I realized this, I was able to shift my perspective in the semester that followed and get back on track. I will keep this lesson in mind as I continue my studies.”
Example 2:
“From this experience, I realized the importance of taking action early when I am having difficulty in a certain class. From then on I was eager to stay after class, go to office hours, or join study groups. I know how to identify when I am struggling and rectify it so that I won’t fall behind, which is something I think will translate well to PA school.”
Q: Tell Me About a Time When…
Translation: Did you have meaningful patient care experiences? Have you learned from adversity?
A Time When: You had a patient who made a lasting impression on you?
Tell a short story that is personal to you.
A Time When: You overcame a challenge?
Show them that you are resilient. Academics, sports, career changes, being a caregiver for a family member, health problems, and other personal stories of adversity are all good topics. Some people have faced more adversity than others, but that doesn’t mean your challenges aren’t relevant! Maybe you took on a leadership role that wasn’t what you thought it would be but managed to succeed anyway. Maybe you had the courage to ask for help in an intimidating situation or stood up for someone who couldn’t stand up for themselves.
A Time When: You resolved a conflict with a coworker?
Show them that you can problem solve. Even a seemingly small issue can work such as figuring out how to incorporate everyone’s opinions to make a change at work or complete a group project.
Q: What do you think will be your biggest challenge if you are accepted?
Translation: Is there anything standing in your way of successfully completing PA school?
Be honest and vulnerable. They want to see that you are human, but also have a plan if things get tough.
Example 1:
“I have a family with two young children. Although I’m sure I will have to make some sacrifices, I have a great support system that includes my husband and in-laws to lean on as things get tough. “
Example 2:
“I live in a different city currently, so it will be challenging to move across the country. However, it is worth it to me to move for this program, and I am excited to make new friends!”
Example 3:
“I think it will be difficult to maintain a good work-life balance. In the past I have put my physical wellbeing on the back burner, so it is my goal to maintain a good sleep schedule.”
Q: Ethical Scenarios
Translation: Are you a decent human being? Ethical people = ethical providers.
Schools often present ethical scenarios to see if you make ethical choices in general. The following are some questions I really had during my PA school interview process!
Example 1:
“Your friend comes to you crying saying they hit a pedestrian last night while driving. They heard a “thud” but drove off as they had been under the influence. You are the only person they have told. What would you do?”
Example 2:
“A patient has had cold symptoms for two days. You know an antibiotic won’t be helpful for a viral illness, but they are getting aggressive. “I came all the way here and paid a $50 copay and you aren’t even going to give me an antibiotic?” he says. How do you respond?”
Example 3:
“Your wife has a terminal illness. You cannot afford the medication she needs which costs $800 per month. You have exhausted all options to pay for this medication. The options are to a) steal the medication and keep her alive or b) she will die. What would you do?“
Example 4:
“A patient comes to you for clearance in order to enlist in the US Air Force. She states, “I know anxiety is listed on my chart, but I have not been on medication for years and am feeling fine these days. Can you please delete that? I don’t want that in my medical record.” What would you do?”
Some of these ethical questions have an obvious answer (like the first one) and some have no correct answer and they want to see your thought process. For the latter, it’s a good strategy to talk through the scenario out loud. For instance:
“Well, obviously my wife is very important to me and I would hate to lose her. In an ideal situation I would do anything possible to get the money to pay for it, whether that was crowd funding, or working long hours. Stealing the medication would likely put me in jail resulting in the same outcome as if I let her die so I’d choose option b and cherish the time I have left.”
Q: Hot Topics in the PA Field
Translation: Are you familiar with challenges that PAs face in the workforce? Are you familiar with the profession as a whole?
PA schools love to ask about current important issues in the field. Make sure to check out the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) website for the latest topics.
What do you think of the name change from Physician Assistant name change to Physician Associate?
“I feel like it will take patients some time to get used to, but overall eliminates the confusion that PAs are capable providers on their own rather than a medical assistant.”
What does the term “collaborative medicine” mean to you?
“I consider collaborative medicine to be an environment in which providers work as a team to provide great patient care. For instance, a PA who is working in collaboration with a supervising doctor can ask questions when needed, discuss patient care plans, or get suggestions about what medication to prescribe.”
A Word about Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs)
Multiple Mini Interviews or MMIs is a format many schools use to interview candidates. Typically there are 5-10 different “stations” where you have a mix of short interviews, written prompts, verbal scenarios, etc. This is good in that it eliminates bias (if one interviewer doesn’t vibe with you, it won’t kill your chances). However, it can also feel chaotic and impersonal as you shuffle around during these rapid-fire sessions.
In the MMIs I experienced, a prompt was taped to the door and you had two minutes to think about your answer before entering the session. Once inside, I answered specific questions, responded to a professor who was “acting” like an upset patient, responded to ethical scenarios, and wrote down how I would explain diabetes to a 5 year old. I also had several short “traditional” interviews.
My best advice is to take a deep breath before entering each room. Be honest and try your best.
Interviews are intimidating, but with a bit of prep you will enter with more confidence!
Leave a comment below if there are any additional interview questions you’d like answered!
Best of luck!