Practice Traditional Interview Questions

"So, why do you want to become a PA?"

Although I enjoy my role as a CNA, I feel that I am ready to move on in my career. I get frustrated at times when my ability to help my patients is limited by my capacity as a CNA. I would like to learn more about the practice of medicine and be able to work in a newly enhanced position as a medical provider. As a PA, I can fulfill my desire to practice medicine and complete a program in two years with considerably less debt. I would also welcome the dependent nature of the profession, as I currently work in collaboration with many medical providers in all specialty areas now.

"What is your greatest weakness?"

I believe that "we bring about what we think about," so I don't dwell on weaknesses. However, I would have to say that being impatient in dealing with those who don't "catch on" as quickly as I do is one of my weak points. I've learned to enlist the cooperation of my co-workers and to demonstrate quicker ways to get the job done. Leading by example is a much more effective way of dealing with impatience than holding my frustrations in. You should show awareness of your need to improve and what action steps you need to take to work through the issue. "Working too hard" is overused and meaningless, so don't say that as your weakness.

"Do you think HMOs and PPOs are good or bad for the PA profession?"

I believe that HMOs and PPOs are good for the PA profession because PAs are cost effective and yet rank highly in terms of patient satisfaction. This is the best answer because it answers the question directly and presents a clear argument (based in fact) about why it is good for the profession. You can also state they can be good for the profession because they work to make medical care more cost effective, but make sure to talk about the impact on the PA profession.

"Why do you want to attend our program?"

I did some research and selected schools that most interested me, and yours is at the top of my list. I researched PA programs based on interviews with current students, first-time pass/fail rates on the NCCPA boards, longevity of the program, and clinical rotation sites. I feel that your program meets my criteria for what I am looking for in a strong program. I know that I would be a good fit at this school and that I have a lot to contribute. This is the strongest answer because it demonstrates planning and control on your part. This answer shows confidence in your skills and ability to fit into this program. You need to be aware of the fact that you may be walking on a thin line here. You need to project confidence, while not being overconfident.

"How have you stayed current and informed about the PA profession?"

I do all of the standard things. I read the journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (JAAPA); I attend some of the state chapter meetings of the AAPA - in my state, it's ConnAPA. I belong to forums on the Web for PA school students and applicants. I also shadow PAs and learn firsthand the current challenges of the PA profession. In general, I've become a student of the profession, and I am very passionate and excited about the opportunity to become a PA. This answer has a very natural and relaxed tone to it, yet it covers every possible base and states you are a person who is "out there" and informed. By being involved in groups and organizations, you are also widening your network, which is the number-one way to get accepted. Of course, in your interview you'd give the specific names of newsletters and organizations.

"What do you like to do outside of school?"

I have many hobbies and interests. I like to spend time with my family and friends. I am a kayaker and enjoy golfing. I also enjoy making poetry. I am a volunteer at my church as well. This is the best answer because it portrays you as a well-rounded person. This question is designed to understand the "you" behind the candidate. Additionally, the balance of relationships and hobbies communicates to the interviewers that you are interested in relationships and accomplishing tasks. Don't say you are a very involved volunteer. You can mention it as one of your hobbies, but to only talk about volunteering is a predictable response. Stick to something more genuine and believable because you don't just like to volunteer outside of school.

"If i remember one thing about you, what should that be?"

I have two skills that are distinctly different but that define my personality. I am a very good classical guitar player and an excellent mechanic; I'm known for having strong, steady hands. This is the strongest answer, especially if your goal is to work in surgery where "good hands" are a requirement. Obviously, you will not necessarily be able to relate your hobbies to your job, but you can see how this would make the interviewer remember you after you finish the interview. The idea is to find something that sets you apart from everyone else.

"Do you think that the physician assistant profession should change its name to physician associate? Why or why not?"

I personally feel that PAs should be called physician associates as opposed to physician assistants. In 1965, the profession's original name was physician associate, and the name change occurred only as a result of some concerns by physicians. I believe that forty years later, the PA's role is better served by the name "physician associate," because the word "assistant" is a very generic term that can be quite misleading. Shows you have done your homework on the profession. Likewise, you make a sound argument for why the name should be changed from assistant to associate.

"What makes you mad?"

I really don't get mad that often, but injustice is my biggest button. If I think that things are unfair, I usually get angry about that. In that situation, I assess whether or not I can make a difference, and if I can, I try to facilitate change. If I can't, I try to accept the situation and reframe it or use it as an opportunity to learn a lesson about how I will not do things or treat others. You can substitute a variety of other answers for injustice and still be able to respond in a similar manner. The important point here is to be honest and respond positively about how you manage your anger.

"What do you value most in a classmate or co-worker?"

I really value teammates who are supportive and willing to go the extra mile to accomplish the task at hand. Once while I was working as an ER technician, we were really shorthanded on the busiest night of the year. Even though many of us had completed our shifts, we stayed late to help the rest of the physicians, nurses, and fellow technicians cope with the heavy surge of patients. We stayed until things settled down, and everyone appreciated our cooperation and dedication. Gives a clear example that backs up your opinion. The answer is secondary to the message it conveys. Teamwork means getting along and working together. Try to always phrase everything in a positive manner.

"Do you think health-care reform will be positive or negative for physician assistants? Why or why not?"

I see health-care reform being "positive" for physician assistants. With current plans to extend health insurance coverage to some forty seven million people, coupled with the current primary-care physician shortage, PAs will be in more demand than ever. Best answer because presents factual data to explain the reality of the health-care reform situation. It also shows that you have done your homework when it comes to health-care reform.

"If you could change one thing about the PA profession, as you understand it today, what would you change?"

I would increase the number of colleges and universities that offer PA programs. The demand for PAs still exceeds the supply, and new health-care reform laws will create a need for even more practitioners. Best answer because displays an understanding of the profession, programs, and issues related to health-care reform. You look knowledgeable and well informed with this answer.

"How would you describe your personality?"

I'm a high-energy person who is motivated by new challenges and problems. I can hit the ground running and come up to speed faster than anyone I know. I have a proven record of success and a strong work ethic. My attitude about work is to be a team player and do whatever it takes to get the job done. I strive to help my coworkers and encourage cooperation too.

"What are your goals as a PA?"

I've always believed in short-, medium-, and long-term goals. Right now, I'd like to attend a strong PA program, graduate, and be able to pass my boards. I then would like to work on a team and gain as much generalized knowledge of medicine as possible. Long-term goals will depend on my experiences along the way. I will look for opportunities that will continue to be challenging and where I can make a significant contribution in the health care profession. This answer is the best because it shows the candidate is open to opportunities that allow room for growth but doesn't lock the speaker into goals that may be unrealistic or are too rigid or specific.

"What do you know about this program?"

I've done research on this program and checked out the mission and the focus of the program. I am very familiar with your didactic schedule and your clinical rotation sites. I even shadowed a few of your graduate PAs, and I have spoken to a few of your current students. I know that you have well-established rotation sites and a high 90th percentile first-time pass rate on the national boards. I know this is a program I would be very interested in attending. This is the strongest answer because of the skills demonstrated - not only researching the program, but digging deeper for information about the mission, focus, and rotation sites. This answer provides information and knowledge beyond what was on the website.

"If you had a patient with a language barrier, how would you assist that patient?"

There are many things to consider when dealing with someone who has a language barrier. In addition to the language issue, the person also comes from a different culture and that culture might have different understandings and values related to health and health care. Preparation is key, I make every effort to learn about different cultures so if I am ever in this situation, I will have a basis for understanding. But in this situation, I would find a translator. Many hospitals have translators on staff. I might also try to work with family members who speak English and hope that they can assist. I would watch nonverbal communication closely and make sure that I don't upset the patient. I would try to find ways to reassure them (calming facial expressions, smiles, etc.). I might draw pictures and diagrams, but I would need to be sure that the patient understands my drawings.

"Have you applied to any other programs?"

Yes, I have applied to Duke, Emory, Yale, and George Washington. I feel that these are the original programs with a strong history of educating the best PAs. The pass/fail rates are exceptional, and I can feel confident that I will be able to pass my boards after graduation. Additionally, I understand that competition for each program is keen, and I would like to maximize my chances for acceptance into a program that will provide an optimal learning experience. This answer is the strongest answer because it focused on a theme when choosing programs. It also discusses the pass/fail rates, which are important to an applicant, who has to pass the boards. Finally, the applicant has applied to five programs, which seems to be the perfect number. It does not leave you appearing to be desperate. Definitely mention maximizing chance of acceptance as that is important to you (because of the competition, I had to apply to more programs to create a safety net).

"Is it important for PA students to belong to local, regional, and national PA associations? Why or why not?"

Yes. As medical professionals, it is important for PAs to remain current in both clinical and political issues at the state, regional, and national level. The profession is still a relatively new one, and PAs must remain vigilant concerning issues and policies in the health-care arena or risk negative consequences in the future. In addition to giving the obvious "right" answer, you explain why you think it is important. The point about the profession being relatively new is important and shows critical thinking as well. This is your chance to show how you will give back to your field through your professional organization as well as why it is important for continuing education.

"Which field do you see yourself working in after graduation?"

At this point, I'm most interested in neurosurgery or working in the ER. I like the idea of working in the ER and with a varied population of patients. I know that I may change my mind though as I learn more about the field. I think I would like to start off in a general field while I gain experience and then specialize in something or pick up a specialized prn job. Best answer because shows that you have given thought to what interests you and why, but you still leave the door open to other options as you learn more about the field and areas of specialty.

"If it comes down to you and one other applicant, why should we select you?"

If you compare my qualifications with your requirements, you will see that I am almost a perfect match for your program. I have the required GPA and test scores. I have more than enough quality hours of hands on medical experience. I have a full understanding of the PA role. I've shadowed five of your graduate students, and I understand the philosophy and focus of your program. If you were to ask those five PAs to say something about me, they would tell you, "She has a strong desire to become a PA, and she would be a great fit for this program." It focuses on requirements and prerequisites of the program, including GPA and medical experience. It also tells the interviewer what you have specifically done to improve your chances of acceptance. This answers shows motivation, maturity, and enthusiasm.

"What do you consider your strengths?"

My strengths are a combination of my interpersonal skills and my ability to communicate with staff and patients alike. I am a team player and consider myself a great listener. I think what separates me from the competition though, is my ability to put patients and their families at ease. I have the ability to break down complex medical data into simple, yet concise terminology. I was voted "employee of the year" last year as a direct result of patient and employee feedback. It will be necessary for you to think of your strengths beyond meeting qualifications. What else can you offer that others applicants cannot? The more skills you include in your answer, the more info the interviewer will have to judge you on. DO NOT say "I am a people person" and "I love helping people."

"Do you have any questions?"

One thing that has been talked about during the interview is the philosophy of the program. Can you explain to me more about that and how it came about? This is the strongest answer because it shows that you have been listening and are aware that one of the first things you need to understand is the "philosophy" of the program. The bottom line of the interview is to see if you're a good fit for the program. If you understand the philosophy and focus of the program, you can see if you're a good match for the program and if the program is a good match for you. This leads the interviewer to believe that you are interviewing the school as well as the school interviewing you. Don't say "No I don't have any questions." Questions show your interest and let the interviewer know that you've been listening.

"Tell us something about yourself."

The strongest answer would present a good summary of what you have to offer. The interviewer knows your total years of experience, the types of places where you have worked, and what you consider your strengths relative to a job. The answer should provide a good blend of knowledge-based skills, and some personality traits. You are striving to give the interviewer a good snapshot of yourself. The ideal answer contains a well-rounded, current picture of you.

"If I asked your co-workers or fellow students to say three positive things about you, what would they say?"

They would most likely say that I am a very knowledgeable about my job and willing to share my knowledge with them whenever they need help. Second, they would tell you that I have great organizational skills; I plan ahead and meet schedules. The third thing they would tell you is that I know when to laugh. I've learned through experience that you can't take situations too seriously. The skills named are a good mixture of skills. It's best when you can give a mixture a skills and traits (this is what makes you unique). When you give an example with a statement, it makes more of an impact. Also, avoid the phrase "I think." It makes you appear less confident.

"Why do you want to change careers?"

As I have matured and experienced more, I've learned that I am very interested in health care. I interviewed individuals in several health-care fields (physicians, nurses, NPs, and PAs) and found that I am most drawn to the PA profession for many reasons. First, I like the collaborative aspect of being a PA and working in a health care team. Yet I also like the autonomy that the PA profession would provide me. I am fascinated by the number of specialities available to PAs. Finally, I have a good deal of respect for the profession and was very impressed with the PAs I spoke with about their jobs. Best answer because it shows you have researched options and selected the profession because of what it can provide you. You seem to be sincerely interested in being a PA over other health-care careers.

"Tell me something unique about yourself that is not already included in your application."

I am an avid reader. I read many different types of books - fiction and nonfiction, newspapers, journals, pretty much anything I can get my hands on. This makes me a bit of a trivia expert as well. This is the best answer because it adds to your value as a candidate. If you aren't an avid reader, an answer that tells the committee that you have skills and competencies related to being a good student or PA is what you should mention in the answer.

"Explain your undergraduate grades."

I am not particularly proud of my first year in school and don't believe that the grades from that year are at all representative of my ability to perform or of my motivation. In my first year of school, I lacked direction and struggled to find a reason for being in class. I also moved 14 hours away from home, and that did impact my grades. As you can see by my transcript, my grades improved significantly once I found out what I was interested in. As a more mature person now, I know how to motivate myself and find the passion in most things, but as an 18 year old, I lacked that skill

"Tell me your thoughts about health-care reform."

I personally believe that everyone in the United States should have access to quality health care. Health-care should not be a for profit business and insurance companies should not have as much power as they do. As far as the means by which we, as a country, bring this plan to fruition, that is a political decision versus a personal one for me. Best answer because answers without taking a political position. You aren't in the interview to discuss politics and this answer explains your values without getting into the politics of how access to quality care can be achieved.

"Do you think PAs and nurse practitioners are in competition with each other?"

No. PAs and nurse practitioners are both midlevel practitioners who fulfill a very important role in the health-care system. I look at both professions as working in collaboration as opposed to working against one another. Best answer because emphasizes the collaborative nature of patient care and the differing roles that individuals play within that collaboration. You could also address differences between the two professions to show the interviewer that you have done your research.

"What is a 'dependent' practitioner?"

PAs are dependent practitioners. They are required to work with physician supervision. Although the PA must declare a supervising physician and be registered in the state of employment, he or she may work autonomously.

"Should all PA programs be master's-level programs?"

The trend toward master's level PA programs started many years ago. Currently, the majority of PA programs are at the master's level. It is difficult to say that all PA programs should be master's-level because most of the PAs who were pioneers of the profession did not have master's degrees. However, I do believe that a strong case can be made that the rigorous didactic and clinical training in PA school warrants a master's degree. Best answer because clearly identifies the complexity of the question noting it would be hard to make master's degrees mandatory. However, the answer also acknowledges that the material covered in PA programs is challenging and certainly warrants a master's level rating. This tells the interviewer that you are well aware of the rigorous didactic nature of programs.

"Where do PAs fit on the hierarchy ladder with nurses, MDs, and nurse practitioners?"

We are all on the same team, so I don't necessarily think in terms of a hierarchy. Every team member, be it a nurse, physician, technician, or PA, has their own role and a common responsibility to provide the best care for the patient. Best answer because explains collaborative nature of patient care and importance of the team working together.

"What experience do you have that qualifies you to join our program?"

With six years of experience working as an EMT, I have the necessary medical experience to qualify as a strong applicant. My strength is my leadership and communication skills. I have supervised and trained new technicians on a 24/7 schedule. I am also able to give brief, yet concise information to ER personnel when bringing in a sick/injured patient. If you were to ask my staff members about me, they would tell you that I am extremely dependable and loyal. I am very adaptable and have worked several seventy hour workweeks during periods of need. This answer gives examples of strengths in the area of medical experience, leadership, and communication (which are considered transferrable skills), and your willingness to do "whatever it takes to get the job done." The "third party endorsement" from people who have worked with you is very helpful. Speaking through others' comments is a strong technique to use when you are answering questions.