Pfizer Internship Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Would you describe yourself as more analytical or interpersonal as a new intern here at Pfizer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter what business area at Pfizer you are interviewing as an intern for, you will likely need both analytical and interpersonal skills to succeed. This question will offer insights into whether you are more of a team collaborator or an innovator. Both bring value and there is no wrong or right answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
First and foremost, be honest about which area is your strength and exude confidence in your answer. If you are one, the other, or both, offer storytelling examples where you've used this to your advantage and shined. You want to project your self-awareness and also assure your interviewer that while you are stronger in one area, you still are excellent in the other.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"While I'm very strong on the analytical side as displayed in my success in my Ph.D. program, I'd have to describe my strength being my interpersonal skills. I thrive on my interactions with my team and would bring excellent communication and teamwork skills to your team at Pfizer. There's a camaraderie that comes with being part of a work unit that makes you feel you're part of something bigger and I would look forward to getting this same opportunity here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I would describe myself as being both, I have strong interpersonal skills which have helped me learn from my team members and receive feedbacks that has helped me grow because of the interpersonal relationship I have with them. Also being analytical is seen in my interest in analytics."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you're both! Can you provide an example or two that show your ability to be personable and/or analytical? Also, can you give more details about your interest in analytics? How did that come about? Have you always been analytical and good with numbers?
Behavioral
2. Describe the approach to learning new skills that you would bring to the Pfizer internship program.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interns at Pfizer get exposed to many new projects, concepts, and ideas, and success as an intern requires an open approach to learning, mastering, and retaining new skills and knowledge. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to hear you discuss how you approach new opportunities to learn and to hear that you're excited to do just this during your Pfizer internship.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
In the end, you want to demonstrate to your interviewer that you will come to Pfizer as an intern curious and eager to learn. This will also communicate your excitement about being selected for an internship opportunity. Discuss how you keep an open mind when learning new things and how you always look to improve by learning from others.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Even though I am almost done completing my bachelor's degree, there is so much more I'm excited to learn about. If I'm fortunate enough to join Pfizer as an intern this summer, my approach would be to come here with an open mind and be ready to learn from each staff member that I work alongside. I would come with no biases or intentions, but rather as an open book waiting to be written."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Would you come to our Pfizer internship program with ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
For many students, an internship is the first opportunity to be thrown into the mix to help solve real-world work problems and the Pfizer team is fully aware of this fact. Your interviewer wants to know if you are someone who can handle stress on the job in a healthy and productive manner.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Explain how you manage stress and your ability to control the pressure that comes your way as an intern with Pfizer. This is a great opportunity to talk through a time during your schooling when you were overwhelmed and you worked your way out of it with a methodical approach.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I sure would! I always remain calm and look for ways to be more efficient. For instance, if there is a deadline, I will determine what can be done to meet that deadline. I will write down the steps to ensure successful completion and get started right away instead of procrastinating. I know that stressful situations are bound to happen in the workplace and I will remain professional and willing to adjust when I need to."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
4. How do you typically respond to negative feedback or constructive criticism?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During an internship with Pfizer, you will receive feedback on the job from your mentors and feedback will come both formally and informally. Your interviewer wants to know how you respond to negative feedback in the case that it comes your way during your internship.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Be honest in your answer, but demonstrate that you can take negative feedback and learn from it. Also, show the interviewer that you can be professional and receptive to feedback that might not feel good to hear, but could lead to your improvement.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Although I strive to work hard so I don't receive negative feedback, I know that it can only help me. I'd rather be given negative feedback so I know which areas I need to improve instead of not knowing where I'm falling short."
Written by Ronda Barnes on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
5. How would your professors and student colleagues describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question reveals a lot about how you react. To consider you for a highly sought-after internship with Pfizer, your interviewer needs to be assured that your values, traits, and characteristics match the values of Pfizer as an organization and the team you will be interning with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
First and foremost, there is no need to feel nervous about this question. Answer with confidence, and stay on course with what you have to offer and contribute to Pfizer should they choose you to move forward to the next stage of the interview. Think about feedback that you've directly received from your student colleagues and professors and discuss those traits in detail and explain why they are important to your success in the Pfizer internship program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe they tell you there is no one they could rely upon more. I'm a definitive team player that is always professional, courteous, and thorough. I keep my head down, and get buried in my work, but would drop everything in a minute if I was needed elsewhere. My current professors have commended me for my ability to overcommunicate things, even when it becomes difficult."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
6. How would you describe your work style that you would bring to the Pfizer internship program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Team fit is always an important consideration at Pfizer when they are considering many great applicants to join their internship program. With this question, your interviewer is assessing how you will fit in with the team and the work environment. It will also offer insight into how adaptable you may be to their way of doing things during your short stint as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your Pfizer internship interview, it will be imperative to know the basics of what the position looks like. Highlight your strengths, your flexibility, and that you are easy to work with. Describe your system approach, as well as how you adapt your work style based on the situation. This can also be an opportunity to highlight what aspects of your work style have greatly benefited your work in the past.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very organized, systematic, and detail-oriented in my work style and have developed this style throughout my schooling. For your internship at Pfizer, I know this same approach is necessary for working with the data and information required."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Talk about the biggest disappointment you had to face up to this point in your life. What did you learn from that situation that you can bring to the Pfizer internship program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an intern at Pfizer, you will be trusted to work on impactful initiatives and will be given a lot of freedom compared to most internships. With this responsibility may come some failures and your interviewer is looking to evaluate how you handle disappointment and what you learn from it. It will also assess how you take ownership of your own actions, inactions, limitations, self-awareness, as well as your attitude towards life.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Try to offer examples where the circumstances of the disappointment were beyond your control. Discuss the situation that you faced and how you moved forward with action and communication to help make the situation better. In the end, stay positive and talk about it as a great learning experience that can help you be successful as part of the Pfizer internship program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my undergraduate program, I received a very poor grade on a final project for a class that I was extremely disappointed with. In hopes to finish my program in under four years, I packed a couple of semesters very full of credits and I became very overwhelmed that last semester with competing projects, assignments, and priorities and I just wasn't able to devote enough time to it. I took full responsibility and had a very candid conversation with my professor following the grade. From that situation, I learned that I am only one person and can only take on so much myself at one time. Now, if I ever need to put out a call for help, I don't hesitate to do so."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
8. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During an internship with Pfizer, you will be diving head first into project work and the organization prides itself on putting its interns in a position to make decisions that are impactful. To get at your ability to handle the project management side of this internship, your interviewer wants to hear about your ability to be details oriented and thorough in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
How you answer will offer insights into how you handle challenging situations as an intern with Pfizer. Discuss a time when you were extra thorough during a work-related project and don't hesitate to make it especially unique. Walk through your process of combing through the details and explain why it was important to do so.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the past four months of my IMV Ph.D. program, I have been working on my final research project involving novel therapies for IBD. The initial months were totally inundated with data analysis and I had to ensure that no stone was left unturned as I gathered information. Though very boring and tedious at times, I kept a focused mindset at every moment to make sure that nothing was missed. For me, thoroughness and attention to detail come down to this same mindset."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
9. When have you shown great integrity at work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At Pfizer, a strong focus on research standards and integrity is vital in ensuring that their scientific standards are met and exceeded. This question will gauge your concept of integrity and how you will bring this value to Pfizer as an intern. Your interviewer wants to know if your moral high ground would complement or clash with Pfizer's values.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Integrity comes from honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the way(s) that you show your integrity in your work. As well, don't hesitate to give a 10,000-foot overview of why having high moral standards and integrity is important in the work that is conducted at Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Honesty and integrity are two values at the center of my being. In my research during my Ph.D. program, I approached my work with integrity by always doing the right thing with the patient data that I was exposed to. Confidentiality was of utmost importance and my approach was to never share personal information with anyone. Even small things like never leaving a laptop open for others to see the information was something that I always prioritized."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
10. How would you rate your time management skills that you would bring to Pfizer as an intern?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pfizer interns are often required to juggle multiple projects at one time and the projects have a very big impact on the initiative of the organization. Your interviewer at Pfizer needs to be assured of your ability to manage your time and meet deadlines if they are to seriously consider you to join their internship program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Openly discuss how you prioritize when everything demands your attention at once. Think about how you manage your projects and daily tasks and how this will help you succeed in your internship experience with Pfizer. Make sure to discuss the tools and resources that you use to help keep yourself organized in your work. You can also give a numerical rating on a scale of 1 - 10 to describe your skill level.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would rate my time management skills as an 8. It can be challenging at times when I have tests and projects due, but I've learned how to focus my attention on the areas I'm weak in and not spend too much time on the tasks I know I can already do well. I like to keep a calendar for my deadlines and set aside time to work on high priority needs first, and then move to tasks for project work further down the line."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Behavioral
11. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will be working on many projects during your internship at Pfizer and the organization gives its interns the opportunity to work on real-life issues in the pharmaceutical field. The interviewer at Pfizer wants to know if you can be creative, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals, and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues, or even a patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"When faced with a complicated problem, I will look at the resources that are available to me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Direct
12. Do you have any issue relocating for a short period of time to join the Pfizer internship program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This will help your interviewer at Pfizer assess how committed you would be to this internship opportunity and how ambitious will you prove to be during your time with them as an intern. It will also offer insight into your other life priorities, your flexibility, and how far you are willing to go to obtain this great experience.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to even considering the Pfizer internship opportunity, you should be committed to one of the many locations that you are interviewing with. Your answer should be a resounding yes because it is worth it for the experience. Talk openly about your personal situation and how you are committed to doing what it takes to take advantage of this unique opportunity with Pfizer. You can discuss your preference for finding temporary housing and that may open your interviewer up to discussing what opportunities the company may be able to provide as well.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I don't have any issues at all temporarily relocating for this awesome opportunity at Pfizer! My spouse is fully committed to me finding temporary housing here during my time with the Pfizer internship as well. In the end, my hope would be to fully impress you and your team and secure a full-time permanent position following my internship and we'd look at relocating here permanently because we love this area of the country."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
13. How did you ultimately choose this career path for yourself?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To get at the drive and passion you will bring as an intern, your interviewer wants to learn your motivation and goals for pursuing your career path. This will show what you are passionate about and how you will fit in with the team and culture at Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Perhaps you chose a field that will allow you to help others, or you chose a career that will allow you to work with numbers or data, or you wanted a career that would allow you to protect people and property. Whatever your reason, share how you decided on your career, the purpose you hope to fulfill, and the impact you hope to make.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"My passions have always been helping others and finding creative solutions to scientific problems, so this career path was really a natural choice for me. If I'm fortunate enough to join the Pfizer internship program, you'll quickly find that my compassionate and analytical approaches are a perfect mix for working in the development of new pharmaceuticals."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
14. What challenges are you looking forward to as an intern with Pfizer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Entering a challenging workforce like Pfizer's for the first time as a student will certainly present a few challenges for you. This question allows your interviewer to gauge your excitement for tackling real-world problems as an intern with the Pfizer program and your foresight into what the role will entail for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
This is another opportunity to share your skills and the contributions you believed you'd deliver to this position. Prior to your Pfizer internship interview, put some thought into what you feel will be a challenge for you, and come prepared to talk about how you will take that challenge head-on as a growing opportunity. Don't hesitate to offer stories about where you've contributed in the past and how you want to build on those accomplishments as an intern at Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I foresee the first challenge as learning the ins and outs of the Pfizer business and how I can best contribute as an intern here. From day one, I would plan on building great relationships with the colleagues I would be working closely with and take every opportunity to pick their brains. Another challenge for me personally will be finding my niche in the pharmaceutical industry and I admit this is a challenge I put on myself. I would relish every opportunity presented to me at Pfizer to learn and grow as a future professional in this industry."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
15. What excites you the most about this Pfizer internship opportunity?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Passion, dedication, and determination are key factors to success for any intern at Pfizer. Your interviewer wants to know that you are excited about an opportunity to snag a coveted internship with Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Of course, you will be building your skills and gaining exposure to the workforce, but you should ideally share one or two unique things that really excite you most about the opportunity to gain experience at Pfizer. Perhaps this is your first job, or maybe it is the networking opportunities, working with experts, or the desire for permanent employment. Share your response with enthusiasm and use your research on the organization and the role to guide you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Working for a reputable pharmaceutical company like Pfizer has been a goal of mine since I started pursuing my degree. Your company is a leader in the industry so I would love to learn from the best and hopefully prove that I can be a long-term player with a permanent position down the road."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
16. Tell us about your extracurricular involvement or how you spend your spare time.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At times during your Pfizer internship interview, your interviewer will be trying to get to know you a bit better on a personal level. In asking how you spend your time outside of work, they are trying to get a sense of you will mesh with their team at Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Part of the intention of this question is to see your potential compatibility with the current team, so be honest and show your passions. It's great to highlight some uniquely positive things that you do to show your individualism and your passions outside of your schooling and work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy the arts and have been involved with the theater for a long time. I've been in several plays and have also started writing my own projects. I also am very passionate about culinary arts and have been teaching private cooking classes for about a year now."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
17. Do you have any volunteer or community service experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Community wellness and charitable contributions are engrained in the culture at Pfizer. You may have even noticed articles and photos on the company's website that showed their presence in the community as you researched this internship opportunity. Your interviewer wants to know if you have experience volunteering as well.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
The good thing about volunteering is that you not only help those in need, but you can use your experience on your resume to demonstrate your skills. Express your passion for serving the community while talking about your experiences. Try to talk about any skills you've acquired by doing so.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think it is important for everyone to give back to the community when they can. This value was taught to me at a young age by my parents. I have participated in clothing and food drives, cleaned up the neighborhood, and hosted free activities for children. I believe all of these efforts have a significant impact on our community."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
18. How has your education prepared you to succeed in our diverse work community here at Pfizer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are engrained in the culture at Pfizer and the company puts every effort forward to ensuring its workplace reflects this. Your interviewer needs to be assured that you are willing and ready to join a diverse workforce as an intern at Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Discuss your exposure to the topic of diversity during your schooling. Show that you have a solid understanding of the depth of diversity and inclusion in business environments, and assure the interviewer that you will succeed in their diverse work community at Pfizer. You'll want to highlight the importance of individuality in a team environment and discuss your experience working alongside others that are from different cultural backgrounds than you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Coming from a small Midwestern town that wasn't culturally diverse, my first year of college really opened up my eyes to the diversity of the world and I've really thrived in a diverse environment. I love the opportunity to work with fellow students from around the world on project work. Every person brings their own unique thoughts, experiences, and ideas to a situation and I love learning and growing from others. I'd look forward to the opportunity to join your diverse environment here at Pfizer."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
19. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer at Pfizer has their perception, and you have yours. They want to ensure that you have been able to convey yourself, your vision and your goals as they consider you to join the Pfizer internship program and this question will reveal how well aligned your realities are and offer insights into your sense of confidence and self-awareness.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
This question can create feelings of stress and anxiety, so it's best to be prepared. Be honest with the interviewer about how you feel the interview has gone so far. If you feel like you haven't been able to talk about relevant information, now is the time to bring that out. If you feel everything has gone well, reiterate that to your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe that this interview has been quite informative in helping me learn all about your internship opportunity here at Pfizer and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from our conversation?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
20. If you could choose any special area of focus as an intern with Pfizer, which would you choose?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pfizer offers many types of internship opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in the pharmaceutical industry. This not only will offer insights as to your career interests but the breadth of your knowledge of what Pfizer offers. Aim to address both in your answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Working for Pfizer could open a variety of career options for you. If you had your choice in a career path, explain which career you think you would choose with the organization. Talk to the interviewer about where you'd like to see your career path go with Pfizer if you were fortunate to join their internship program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"For me, the vaccine development at Pfizer is so intriguing and potentially world-changing. The response of the overall industry over the last few years in response to a global pandemic was amazing and I'd love to be a part of future life-altering developments like that."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
21. What do you feel has had the biggest development in pharmaceuticals over the past three years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Even as a college student or graduate student, your interviewer at Pfizer wants to hire interns that have a basic knowledge and understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. This question tests how specific and current your knowledge is of the industry to give them a gauge of your knowledge and passion for the industry.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your internship interview with Pfizer, be sure to conduct some overarching research on their industry and know that the term 'pharmaceutical' refers to the creation and sale of medicine. Explain what you foresee as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am most impressed by the way the pharmaceutical industry has switched its focus from treatment to prevention. It's a great way to flip the thinking in the industry, and will likely save the lives of so many people."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
22. During an internship with Pfizer, would you have a preference for working with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a leading pharmaceutical developer and manufacturer, it's important to know that lab testing at Pfizer can include all three forms of lift. This will give insights into where you'd fit into the team you would be joining as an intern. It also may offer your interviewer a glimpse into your personality and what motivates you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Perhaps you have a preference and maybe you don't. However, you choose to answer this question, be sure to keep your reply positive. If at your heart you are against any type of animal testing, it's important to know that Pfizer tests animal subjects in a very humane fashion and you can express you know this fact to your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"If I were fortunate enough to be accepted into the Pfizer internship program, I can say that I don't have a preference as yet. As I continue to carve out my career, that may change. I know that Pfizer has received many accolades for safe testing and studies on human subjects, animals, and plants. I'd be very intrigued to learn the ins and outs of testing on mice to help develop new drugs."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
23. If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness, which one would you choose, and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As they consider you for the Pfizer internship program, your interviewer would like to get to know you and your particular interests and/or passions in their field. This question gives you the opportunity to speak passionately and allows your interviewer some insight into your drive to succeed as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Imagine you had zero limitations, and describe what area within pharmaceuticals would you focus on with Pfizer. Your answer can offer insights into what motivates you, so don't hesitate to give your answer a personal touch by discussing how your choice has impacted your personal life in some way, shape, or form.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"At Pfizer, I know that one of your primary focuses is on cardiovascular care and treatment of hypertension. Being the leading cause of death in our country, it has also impacted a few close family members over the years. I'd love to be a part of groundbreaking research and clinical trials that may someday help treat and prevent CV diseases."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
24. What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment in your life so far?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a definite idea of where you would place your values during a Pfizer Internship. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you if you were to join their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your internship interview with Pfizer, put some serious thought into what you would consider your greatest accomplishment or proudest moment. It is okay to brag a little when answering this question. While this is certainly an open-ended question that you can answer with an accomplishment related to academics or your personal life, you want to ensure that you can clearly paint the picture of why this was a big accomplishment and what you had to overcome to get there.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think my greatest accomplishment was graduating from my bachelor's degree program as an honors student while still working full time to support myself. I was top of my class, and working full time. Through those four years, I learned the importance of hard work, determination, prioritization, organization, and self-care. This success showed me I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
25. Why do you feel it is important to develop great relationships with coworkers as an intern?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The genuine test of this question is how you interpret it. Your interview is asking if you understand the importance of developing relationships with your coworkers as an intern, not hanging out with them in your free time. They'll also be looking to hear that the relationship you build during a Pfizer internship could lead to future networking in the field and maybe even a permanent position with Pfizer after your internship.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about how you develop relationships with coworkers when you start a new job. Think about what is important to you about these relationships and how you would make developing trusting and respectful relationships a priority from the first day of your internship at Pfizer. You could also mention the fact that the coworkers you'd be working alongside will be mentoring you and that having a great relationship is vital to this.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an intern with Pfizer, I would value my relationships with my new coworkers because we would support each other and make each other laugh when the work environment becomes intense. I also want to learn and grow as an intern here and ensuring that my new colleagues trust and respect me would be very important. To help develop great relationships at Pfizer, I would be very open and honest with my colleagues, ask for help when needed, and always volunteer to pitch in where I can."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
26. How will completing an internship at Pfizer help you reach your career goals?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pfizer considers many great candidates for a relatively small amount of internships each year and they have the luxury of selecting from who they feel are the absolute best interns. One quality that they look for in their interns is the drive and passion to succeed and the internship fitting in with career goals is a key measurement of that drive. Your interviewer ideally wants you to talk about your ultimate career goals and how you feel this internship will help you achieve those goals. As well, they may be gauging if you could be a permanent hire following your internship.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk openly about your career goals and discuss the day-to-day duties of this Pfizer internship that will help you to learn and grow into who you want to become. Speak with excitement about this opportunity, who you will be working with, and the projects you will be working on to really hammer home the fact that this is the right opportunity for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"As I began pursuing internship opportunities a couple of months ago, my search was heavily focused on the exact experience that I would be getting and Pfizer quickly jumped to the top of my wish list. Working with a strong data analytics team on meaningful and impactful work is my ultimate career goal and I understand that I will be analyzing data in new pharmaceutical trials here at Pfizer. This experience will help set me up for success after graduation and I'd greatly look forward to the opportunity to be a part of your team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
27. Who has been the greatest inspiration for you in your life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Asking about your personal inspiration will offer a glimpse into your personality, philosophy, and approach to life and your work. In asking this question, your interviewer at Pfizer is looking to hear what will ultimately motivate you as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why. Be relatable and try to inspire conversation. How well you get along with your interviewer will also offer insights on how well you will get along with others on your team during an internship with Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked, and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like she did, as much as I can."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
28. What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months for Pfizer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Any company bringing on a new intern wants to know how one will fit into the culture of their brand. Pfizer wants to ensure that its interns are passionate about the pharmaceutical industry and this question allows your interviewer to gauge just that.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you have a keen and honest interest in the pharmaceutical by discussing the growth and change you foresee within the next year. Be sure to conduct thorough research on Pfizer and the industry prior to your interview. If the organization itself has any upcoming news or changes, be sure to mention these. This may be an opportunity to connect with your interviewer. Discuss what you've read about. Exhibit your enthusiasm relevant to advances in your field. This way you are exhibiting your knowledge and creating a personal connection.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I read on your website that Pfizer is expected to see a 43% increase in the sales of product ABC. This piqued my interest, as I have seen reports that forecast a strong increase in using the product ABC for alternative medical therapies. There are continual changes in this industry, but I see this one being very significant in the upcoming months."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
29. How would you define success during your Pfizer internship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Passion, excitement, and drive are vital for an intern to have at Pfizer and your interviewer is trying to determine whether you evaluate success as your own personal success, the success of your team, or something bigger, like developing a vaccine. All three should come into play in your answer as you talk about how you will ultimately define success as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer how you evaluate success. This is a great time to discuss how you will help in the projects you will be working with at Pfizer and how this experience will benefit you in your career goals.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an intern at Pfizer, I would measure success as the relationships that I build, making an impact on the projects I would be working on, and the experience that I would take into my career down the road. If I were fortunate enough to join as an intern, I would look forward to the opportunities I would be exposed to here and the great people I would get to work alongside and learn from."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Discovery
30. What three qualities do you possess that make you a great candidate for Pfizer's internship program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The success of Pfizer to fulfill its purpose of creating breakthroughs that change the lives of patients has been set forth by its core values of courage, excellence, equity, and joy. To consider you for a coveted internship spot, your interviewer wants to ensure that you have the qualities that will help continue these core values with Pfizer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
This is an excellent opportunity to present yourself as an innovator and a leader to the Pfizer team. Proceed graciously and with etiquette. Look for relevant examples of what you bring to the table that make you stand apart as a future intern. Provide quantifiable examples of your previous successes. Of those examples, offer previous resources you can continue to tap into. Offer them your core values, and how those align with theirs. This is a great opportunity to talk yourself up and sell them on how you stand apart.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that being a successful intern at Pfizer requires standout skills in organization, leadership, and an energetic demeanor. I would say that these are three of my top skills, and I have many others! My references would attest to these skills as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Educational
31. What have been your strongest subjects during your schooling?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While they can get a great sense of your education from your application materials, your interviewer at Pfizer will look to hear you talk more about your educational path and where your strengths were. They want to know where your strengths lie so they can make the connection between your learning and your potential work performance as part of their internship program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Before responding, think about the qualities and requirements mentioned in the job announcement for this internship with Pfizer. Be honest in your response, but share your strengths in the subjects closely related to the job. If you excel in math or finance courses, share how your analytical strengths can be beneficial to the organization. The same goes if the sciences are more your forte.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since high school, I've always received my highest grades in my science courses. Throughout my undergrad and graduate programs, I've continued to excel in chemistry and biochemistry classes. I love these disciplines and am excited to put my knowledge to real-world use in an internship experience with Pfizer."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Educational
32. Walk me through your education and how you feel it has prepared you to succeed in Pfizer's internship program.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Depending on the internship that you are considering at Pfizer, the education required can differ greatly. Your interviewer ideally wants to hear you talk about your decision to take the educational path that you did and then discuss how it has prepared you for success in this internship program with Pfizer. While they can see your education on your resume, this question allows your interviewer a great chance to know you and your interests better.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your post-secondary educational experience and highlight any recognition or awards you may have achieved. Then discuss why taking this path was important to you and why an internship at Pfizer is so appealing to you and your future career goals.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have a bachelor's degree in biology from Tampa College of Natural and Health Sciences. I am on pace to graduate with honors, which will be a huge accomplishment for me since I have also been working part-time to support myself through schooling. In pursuing this degree, I've always had the goal of pursuing a career that can help change people's lives in medicine and Pfizer's global supply program offers me the opportunity to help develop life-changing medicines. My education has prepared me to be organized and innovative in my work and I'd look forward to the opportunity to bring these skills to work here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
General
33. Do you have any additional questions for me about this Pfizer internship opportunity?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In a formal interview, time can really fly for the candidate and the interviewer. To ensure that you leave with no questions unanswered about the Pfizer internship program, your interviewer wants to open the floor to you for questions and answer anything you might want to know more about.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
You should always have questions prepared to ask the interviewer. Before your internship interview, do some research on Pfizer and write down any questions that you'd like to ask. This is a good opportunity for you to learn about the internship, the company, the team, or anything else you'd like to know, so take advantage of the opportunity.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes. Can you tell me about the other team members I would be working with? What are their roles? Also, will there be an opportunity for me to be exposed to other areas in the organization during my internship here? I'm willing to help out wherever I can."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Situational
34. How have you handled working under someone in the past that you felt was not good at communicating?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Communication is integral to the success of any department and workgroup at Pfizer. This question is a test of your communication skills where your interviewer will evaluate your communication style with this question, as well as how you will deal with authority as an intern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Exemplify your ability for non-defensive communication, and how you helped enhance clear communication in this scenario. Talk about how you would find opportunities to clarify when communication was unclear during your time working with the Pfizer internship program. Provide specific examples of situations where you had to ask questions, mirror what was being communicated to you, and how a consensus was reached.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"I recognize not everyone is a natural at communicating. When situations like this occur, I find it initially requires more work. After a bit of mirroring, making sure there are no missing pieces, a person can understand a poor communicator better. Once we establish a rapport, the poor communication improves. People just want to be understood. If a person feels misunderstood all the time, they might grow less communicative to defend themselves. These things just require patience and understanding."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 16th, 2022
Situational
35. How do you react when you have to conform to a decision with which you do not agree?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an intern at Pfizer, you will have a lot of autonomy in the decision-making processes of your work. But, you will also have to work closely with seasoned professionals in your department and you may have to go along with decisions that you don't necessarily agree with. This question assesses how you will handle a potential situation as an intern that may seem to clash with your ideals. How you respond in such situations is what the interviewer is looking for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022
How to Answer
Pfizer is led by science. Science literally means 'the study of nature.' Asking questions rather than being guided by assumptions should be the focus of your example. The policies coming down from the top are likely in place for reasons you are not fully aware of unless you are on the board or are in the executive inner circle. Asking why this policy is in place, expressing interest in the nature of the policy, and the bigger picture and ultimate goals reveal a vested interest in the company and putting your all into reaching those goals as a member of the team.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 16th, 2022
Answer Example
"In situations like this, I always try to learn and ensure there is consensus among myself and the larger team. As an intern here at Pfizer, I know that I will be working closely with industry experts and I look forward to discussing differing opinions and use them as learning experiences. I know that differences in opinion and thought are what generate new and innovative ideas as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on June 16th, 2022