The PA school interview is your chance to shine. It’s an opportunity to showcase not just your qualifications but also your personality, passion, and fit for the program. But with so many strong candidates reaching this stage, how do you make sure you stand out?

What PA Schools Are Looking For

• Authenticity: Admissions committees want to know who you really are. They’re looking for applicants who are genuine, self-aware, and passionate about the PA profession. It’s important to be yourself in the interview rather than trying to say what you think the interviewers want to hear.
• Commitment to the PA Role: PA programs want to see that you fully understand and are committed to the role of a PA. Be ready to explain why you chose the PA path over other healthcare professions like nursing or medicine.
• Teamwork and Communication Skills: PAs work in teams and communicate with a variety of healthcare professionals and patients. Your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and work well with others will be closely observed during the interview.

Preparation is Key

1. Know Your Application Inside and Out: Review your personal statement, experience sections, and any other part of your application before the interview. Be prepared to expand on your experiences and explain how they have prepared you for PA school.
2. Practice Behavioral Interview Questions: PA schools often use behavioral questions to assess your critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer questions like, “Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge at work and how you handled it.”
3. Research the Program: Every PA program has its own strengths, values, and mission. Tailor your responses to show why you’re a good fit for that particular program. Highlight specific aspects of the program, such as its clinical rotations or emphasis on primary care, that align with your career goals.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions: At the end of the interview, you’ll likely be asked if you have any questions for the interviewers. Prepare a few thoughtful questions that show your genuine interest in the program. For example, you could ask about opportunities for mentorship or how the program supports students during clinical rotations.

During the Interview: Stay Calm and Confident

• First Impressions Matter: Dress professionally, arrive early, and be polite to everyone you encounter. These small details contribute to the overall impression you leave on the admissions committee.
• Body Language: Non-verbal communication is just as important as what you say. Sit up straight, make eye contact, and smile. Showing enthusiasm for the PA profession and the program can set you apart from other candidates.
• Show Emotional Intelligence: PAs deal with patients in highly emotional and sometimes stressful situations. Share examples of how you’ve handled emotionally charged situations in your past experiences and how you’ve developed the ability to remain calm and empathetic under pressure.

After the Interview

• Thank-You Notes: Sending a thank-you note after the interview is a great way to show gratitude and reinforce your interest in the program. Keep it professional, express your appreciation, and mention something specific from the interview to make your note memorable.

By being authentic, prepared, and enthusiastic, you’ll stand out in your PA school interview and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Don’t forget to do a Mock Interview for what is likely the biggest interview of your life so far! This makes a huge difference in how well you interview and stand out!