Nailed your CASPA application and got your interview invite? Woohoo! That’s awesome, but now the real fun starts—the PA school interview. This is your moment to shine, to show that you’re more than just great stats and a killer personal statement. Feeling those nerves kick in? We’ve got your back with these top 5 tips to help you prepare for your PA school interview and totally rock it!

1. Know Your “Why”

Start with the heart of it all: why do you want to be a PA? This isn’t just the first question you should prepare for; it’s the core of your interview strategy. Be ready to share your passion in a way that’s both genuine and compelling. Dive deep into your personal experiences that drove you to choose this career path. Whether it’s a life-changing moment or a long-held aspiration, make sure your “why” is clear, heartfelt, and memorable.

2. Do Your Homework

Before you step into the interview room, make sure you know everything you can about the program. Review their website, check out recent news about the school, look at their social media, and get familiar with their mission and values. Understanding the specifics of the program shows you’re serious about wanting to be there. Plus, being able to discuss how the program’s strengths align with your career goals can set you apart from the crowd.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

Practice, practice, practice! Get comfortable with common interview questions like “What is your greatest strength?” or “Describe a challenging situation and how you handled it.” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively. Strongly consider doing a mock interview for feedback and to simulate the nerves you will absolutely feel, and more importantly how you respond to your nerves which can make or break your interview. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel.

4. Mind Your Manners

First impressions matter! Dress professionally and arrive early. Bring a small notebook, and a pen. During the interview, be polite, listen carefully, pay attention to your posture and body language, and maintain good eye contact. Remember, it’s not just about answering questions; it’s about showing that you’re a respectful, attentive, and engaged individual. Your manners can go a long way in proving your professionalism.

5. Follow Up

After the interview, don’t just play the waiting game. Send a personalized thank you email or snail mail to each person who interviewed you. Mention specific details from the conversation to show that you were attentive and genuinely interested. This not only reinforces your interest in the program but also keeps you on their radar as they make their decisions.

Bonus Tip: Stay True to You!

Throughout the interview process, the best thing you can do is be yourself. Let your personality shine through. Admissions committees are looking for future PAs who are not only academically capable but also personable and passionate about their profession.

So there you have it—follow these tips, keep your cool, and you’ll be set to impress at your PA school interview. Go show them why you’d make an amazing PA! Remember, this is your journey to a fulfilling career, so take a deep breath, prepare well, and let your passion for helping others lead the way.