Why are you choosing a career as a pharmacist over other medical professions?
With so many career options available in the healthcare industry, the interviewers would like to know why you have chosen to pursue a career as a pharmacist. The more specific you can be in your response, the more genuine your reply will feel. When you think about the pharmaceutical industry compared to other healthcare areas, consider what factors pushed you to focus on pharma. This question is an excellent opportunity to tell a brief story of the factors that prompted your keen interest in becoming a pharmacist.
"I could have pursued many rewarding professions within the healthcare industry. However, I chose to become a pharmacist because I experienced firsthand how the care and attention of a diligent pharmacist can change a person's life. From a young age, I had severe environmental and drug-related allergies. I suffered for years from headaches and ear infections and often reacted to prescribed medications. When I finally visited a highly attentive pharmacist, they told me some of my health issues might be due to medication sensitivities. I returned to my family doctor, who referred me to an allergist. Ultimately, these medical professionals put me on the right self-care plan while alleviating many of my long-term symptoms. I already knew I wanted to work in the medical industry; however, this experience prompted me to look further into the pharmacy profession. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about medications and help my future clients transform their health through proper prescribing and dosing."
Now is a great time to tell a personal story about why you chose to pursue a career as a pharmacist over other medical professions. Perhaps you have a relative who is a pharmacist or a mentor or guidance counselor who recommended this career to you. Whatever your reason, the interviewers want to hear that you are genuinely interested in the profession and are not pursuing this career for the money or benefits.
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Master admission questions that Pacific Pharmacy interviewers ask to assess clinical readiness.
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