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Student practices for pharmacy school interviews with UHSP alumnus.

The Rx for a Winning Pharmacy School Interview

Just like a carefully crafted medication, preparing for a pharmacy school interview requires the right doses of preparation, confidence and knowledge. This interview is your chance to demonstrate your academic prowess, passion for pharmacy and fit for the profession. Follow these pro-tips to ensure you’re ready to make a winning impression in your pharmacy school interview and take the next step toward your pharmacy career. 

R&D Do the Prep Work

Whether your interview is taking place virtually or in person, it is important to be prepared and professional.

Your outfit is the first thing interviewers will see when they meet you. Dressing appropriately for your interview not only makes a strong first impression but also reflects your respect for the field. Ensure your attire is both professional and comfortable, and if you’re unsure of what to wear, don’t hesitate to seek advice.

Once you have selected your favorite fit, it’s time to do your research. Researching schools before your interviews allows you to tailor your answers and demonstrate how your goals and experiences align with the program’s specific offerings and values. Doing your homework will also help you express your genuine interest in your school of choice and set you apart from candidates with more generic responses.

Q&A (The Power of Practice)

Perhaps the best medicine for your pharmacy interview is practicing answering potential interview questions. While every interview will be different, you can start practicing by having a well-thought-out response to the following common questions:

View a sample response to this question from Juliana Ferrara, UHSP career specialist.

Tell Us About Yourself

  • Break down the answer into three sub-questions: “Who you are,” “Where you’ve been” and “Where you’re going.” 
  • Keep “Where you’ve been” brief, mentioning your name, background and status as an applicant. 
  • For “Where you’re going,” align your professional goals with the opportunity you’re interviewing for, making it relevant to pharmacy school. 

View a sample response to this question from Juliana Ferrara, UHSP career specialist.

Why do you want to be a pharmacist? 

  • Use a 2–3-pronged approach to give multiple reasons for choosing pharmacy, including personal stories if applicable.
  • Speak from the heart, expanding on your passion for the field.
  • Elaborate to show your understanding of the pharmacy profession and your commitment to it.

View a sample response to this question from Juliana Ferrara, UHSP career specialist.

Why are you interested in this school and what makes you a good fit? 

  • Research the school beforehand and mention specific aspects that stand out, such as research opportunities, proximity to healthcare facilities or the faculty.
  • Highlight how the school’s strengths align with your values or professional goals.
  • Mention the school’s impact on your personal development and express a desire to continue building relationships and knowledge there.

View a sample response to this question from Juliana Ferrara, UHSP career specialist.

What are your greatest strengths/areas for improvement? 

  • Strengths: Share not just what the strength is but how you’ve demonstrated it, using specific examples (e.g., showing leadership in a student organization).
  • Areas for Improvement: Focus on a localized improvement that doesn’t hinder your ability to succeed in the program. Discuss steps you’ve already taken to work on this area, showing self-awareness and proactive behavior.

To get real-world practice before the big day, consider setting up mock interviews with a college career specialist, professor or even a friend to simulate real interview conditions. This will help you build confidence and refine your answers.

Using models like the STAR plus interview method are great techniques to use when answering behavioral questions like, “tell me about a time when…” 

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result, with the plus referring to a value statement where you summarize what you said and relate it back to your professional future. First, set up the Situation by briefly outlining the challenge, then move to the Task and briefly summarize your role and goal with one or two key points. Next, describe the key Actions you took, focusing on your contributions and use “I” to emphasize your role; this should be the most detailed part of your response. Finally, Summarize the Results, highlighting 2-3 key results and lessons learned and provide specific examples.

Following the STAR method is another way to help you prepare for interviews and refine your responses. 

A Cure for Nerves

Feeling nervous before a pharmacy school interview is completely normal. Nervousness is your body’s natural response to challenging situations, helping you stay alert and focused. While it may feel uncomfortable, it can also give you the energy needed to perform well. The key is to manage those nerves and not let them overwhelm you.

Sometimes you can feel rattled if you can’t immediately answer a question. Remember, the interviewers aren’t looking for perfection—they’re assessing your ability to handle challenges. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say, ‘That’s an interesting question. I’m thinking about how best to respond.’ This response shows honesty and curiosity, which are valuable traits in a future pharmacist.

Remember to be authentic when answering questions. Refrain from trying to memorize responses, as doing so can make you sound robotic. Be prepared, lead with what you know, and stay calm by using some of the techniques listed above.

Final Prep (Rest, Relax, Refresh)

Preparing for your pharmacy school interview can be quite intense, so a good formula for success is to make sure you get a good night’s sleep, stay hydrated and have a light meal before the interview. Prioritizing your mental and physical health can help you to feel confident and give you the opportunity to showcase who you really are.

Your pharmacy school interview is not just an assessment; it’s your opportunity to showcase your dedication, knowledge and passion for the profession. By preparing thoroughly, practicing thoughtfully and maintaining a calm and confident demeanor, you can present yourself as a strong candidate who is ready to take on the challenges of pharmacy school.

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