How to Answer: How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an University of the Pacific Pharmacy School interview.
3. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to gain insight into your problem-solving skills. They want to see that you can troubleshoot the problem when faced with a setback and develop a solution to fix the issue.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 29th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. When you work in the medical field, those setbacks can be amplified. Even more so while attending university because your grades can significantly determine your future career's success. Discuss with the interviewers how you typically cope with setbacks while focusing on remaining positive in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 29th, 2022
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a project that I have put a lot of time and effort into. I understand that setbacks happen to everyone - despite their level of expertise or years of experience. If I experience a major setback, I take a few moments to debrief internally, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a mentor. Then, I move on. Rather than dwell on my mistakes, I choose to learn from them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on October 29th, 2022