Your PA school interview is likely the most important interview of your life up until now (and your most competitive).
It’s so much more than just answering a few pat questions and shaking hands.
The PA faculty want to see how you behave in a professional environment, how you react when you’re uncomfortable and under stress, and how you present yourself in front of your peers.
Most pre-PA students practice answering common interview questions like how to approach an ethical scenario or explain why they want to be a PA, and maybe even memorize a few facts or mission statements of the school…
….but the one thing students often forget to think about during their PA school interview is body language!
When nervous or stressed you might unintentionally assume a posture that shows your discomfort or seems closed off. Avoiding eye contact or sitting back in your seat with your arms crossed defensively can give the wrong impression to your interviewers. It can seem unprofessional, even if that’s not what you mean to do just because you are nervous.
With professional interviews it is CRUCIAL to mind your body language! This is especially true if you are involved in some kind of group activity or interview.
Your non-verbal cues need to demonstrate your professionalism. Don’t cross your arms or slouch. Never roll your eyes or give sass. Put a smile on your face! This is supposed to be fun! It’s your chance to finally start the career of your dreams! So channel that excitement!
Interview day is filled with activities and sessions and can get overwhelming, so remember someone is always watching!
It’s important to maintain a professional demeanor throughout the ENTIRE interview day. Don’t blow your chance of achieving your dreams by forgetting to be on your best professional behavior.
Clinicians are very good about reading body language (PAs do it for a living!) so be prepared and make sure your body language displays your gratitude and passion to be interviewing at their program!
We are so excited to hear how your PA school interview goes! Let us know how your interview day went!
If you aren’t sure if your interview answers are strong enough, or if you are highlighting yourself the right way, or explaining weaknesses correctly, then definitely sign up for our Mock Interview so you can make sure your crush your PA school interview!