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PA School MMI Mock Interview

Question 21 of 25 for our PA School MMI Mock Interview

PA School MMI was updated by on May 30th, 2023. Learn more here.

Question 21 of 25

What inspired you to become a Physician Assistant?

"Two things led me to a career in healthcare and a future as a physician assistant. First and foremost, watching my mother succeed as a registered nurse throughout her career was such an inspiration to me. She spent her entire career in the ICU setting and worked long shifts, nights, and weekends. Even though it was difficult on my siblings and me, she was always so fulfilled caring for patients that needed it the most in the intensive care setting. As I got older, the sciences like biology and chemistry came naturally to me, and I was very successful in them. Knowing my strengths and passions, getting my undergraduate in biology, and now seeking acceptance to an esteemed PA program like yours would be a dream come true. While I considered the nursing path my mother took, I see a career as a PA taking me so much further."

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How to Answer: What inspired you to become a Physician Assistant?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a PA School MMI job interview.

  • 21. What inspired you to become a Physician Assistant?

      Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

      As the admissions team at the PA school you are interviewing with considers many great candidates for admission, sometimes the decision on who to admit comes down to selecting the individuals that show the most drive and passion for success in the field down the road. Your motivations and drive for becoming a physician assistant can make a lasting impression on the person conducting this MMI interview session.

      Written by Ryan Brunner on May 13th, 2023

      Tips

      Remember that a question like this during your PA school MMI interview isn't about the 'who' or 'what' but rather the 'why'! No matter who or what you choose to cite as your inspiration for this career path, you have the time to explain and make it abundantly clear how they influenced you to pursue the profession.

      Written by Ryan Brunner on May 15th, 2023

      How to Answer

      Before your PA school interviews, take the time to reflect on what and who has inspired you to become a physician assistant. Perhaps it was a family member, high school teacher, good friend, or even a pioneer in medicine. It could have also been your love of the sciences or helping people in need. Elaborate on how your inspiration helped build your goals as a PA student. Give as much detail as possible to let your interviewer see your passion for your future.

      Written by Ryan Brunner on May 15th, 2023

      Answer Example

      "Two things led me to a career in healthcare and a future as a physician assistant. First and foremost, watching my mother succeed as a registered nurse throughout her career was such an inspiration to me. She spent her entire career in the ICU setting and worked long shifts, nights, and weekends. Even though it was difficult on my siblings and me, she was always so fulfilled caring for patients that needed it the most in the intensive care setting. As I got older, the sciences like biology and chemistry came naturally to me, and I was very successful in them. Knowing my strengths and passions, getting my undergraduate in biology, and now seeking acceptance to an esteemed PA program like yours would be a dream come true. While I considered the nursing path my mother took, I see a career as a PA taking me so much further."

      Written by Ryan Brunner on May 15th, 2023

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