30 Pediatric Pharmacy Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Pediatric Pharmacy Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Competency Questions
- 6. Conflict Questions
- 7. Critical Thinking Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Diversity Questions
- 12. Stress Questions
- 13. Teamwork Questions
- 14. Tough Questions
Adaptability
1. What part of the residency program will be the most challenging for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every residency program will have challenges. Finances, work/life balance, relocation, time management, research, studying, and patient care, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you are proactive and have identified what will be most challenging and decided how to overcome the challenge. Describe what will be the most difficult part of your residency and what you plan to do about it.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The most challenging part of the residency will be finding a healthy work/life balance. I have spoken with other residents who said they had no social life and little time for themselves. I plan to spend my free time with friends and family and prioritize taking care of myself by eating healthy and exercising. When I have a healthy work/life balance, I can handle other stressors much easier."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Ask The Interviewer
2. Do you have any questions about our residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most residency programs will have a detailed description on their website stating what is involved with the program, clinical rotations, the primary teaching site, accredited length of training, the residency directors, mentoring, and more. The interviewers want to see that you have researched their program and do not want to answer questions you could have found on their website, showing a lack of attention to detail. Good questions to ask are how the interviewers perceive their program compared to others, what feedback they have received from graduates, the program's strengths, if they offer community service programs during residency, and if any changes are anticipated in the program in the next five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website and speaking with many of your fellows and residents, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What type of practices are most of your graduates going into after their residency? What type of feedback are you receiving from your graduates? Finally, what would you describe as your program's strengths?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Career Goals
3. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are curious about your long-term career goals to see how they can support you during your residency. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, they want to know your sub-specialty. Or perhaps your goal is to work as a pediatric pharmacist in a children's hospital or work in research. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them. Then, describe where you see yourself in ten years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In ten years, I see myself working as a pediatric clinical pharmacist at a children's hospital. After my residency, I plan to pursue a pediatric clinical pharmacology fellowship with Children's Mercy Hospital. After completing my fellowship, I hope to be offered a position with Children's Mercy Hospital as they generally hire their fellows."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Compatibility
4. After researching our program, what electives interest you and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to understand what interests you and why. They want to see where you will succeed in the program and how they can help you along the way. They also want to know if you have looked over the program and what is offered. Describe the electives you wish to take and explain why those electives interest you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The elective rotations that interest me the most are the pediatric cardiology and pediatric emergency room electives, as I have always been fascinated with cardiology and emergency medicine. This is why I applied to your program, as not many other programs offer these electives."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Compatibility
5. What qualities make an excellent pharmacist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent pharmacist, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Excellent pharmacists are patient, honest, and have a strong moral character. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that will help you succeed in this field and make you an excellent pharmacist.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent pharmacist. You must have a strong moral character, honesty, and great attention to detail. Excellent pharmacists also have analytical and critical-thinking skills, which help with pharmaceutical interventions. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed as a neurologist."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Competency
6. How would you define pharmacokinetics?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pharmacokinetics is the branch of pharmacology concerned with the movement of drugs within the body. On average, infants and children often metabolize medications faster than adults. As a future pediatric pharmacist, you should know the definition of pharmacokinetics and how it applies to the pediatric population. The interviewers ask questions like these to gauge your competency level and communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Pharmacokinetics is the branch of pharmacology concerned with how drugs move within the body. Typically, infants and children often metabolize medications faster than adults. As children age, their pharmacokinetics change, so it is essential that pediatric pharmacists research the pharmacokinetics of each medication before prescribing them."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Conflict
7. How do you handle a dispute with a colleague?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for colleagues to dispute or disagree with someone they work with. The interviewers know this and want to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewers insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in any profession.
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a colleague. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. When both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely, less conflict will likely happen in the future. Most conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication. When I have a dispute with a colleague, I ask to speak to them privately to discuss the matter. It is never professional to have a disagreement or conflict in front of others."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Critical Thinking
8. What do you do when you are given an assignment, and you are unfamiliar with how to complete the task?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They would like to know how you tackle unfamiliar assignments and know you will ask for help when needed. Describe what you do when given a project or task you are unfamiliar with.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the type of person that likes to figure things out on my own. I have impeccable research skills, so I can usually find the answer to how to complete a task online. If it is a time-sensitive task and I do not have time to research, I will ask for help to perform the assignment given correctly."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Diligence
9. How do you stay current with the ongoing advancements in pediatric pharmaceuticals?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a future pediatric pharmacist, staying current with the ongoing advancements in your industry is essential. There are many ways you can stay up-to-date with changes in your profession, such as continuing education, talking with colleagues, attending conferences, reading articles, listening to podcasts, and reading medical journals. The interviewers would like to hear that you are proactive and diligent in staying current with ongoing advancements. Describe your methods of staying up-to-date on the latest industry news.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I stay current with the ongoing advancements in pediatric pharmaceuticals in many ways. I subscribe to several medical blogs, such as the Kids Meds blog and Burt's Pharmaceuticals, that deliver a message to my email when there is a new blog outlining the latest trends. I also read scholarly articles and listen to the Pharmacy Podcast Network every morning on my way to work. I have also attended three pharmaceutical conferences in the past three years that always has the latest on advancements in the field."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Diligence
10. Tell us what a day in the life of a pediatric pharmacy resident looks like.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every specialty will have a slightly different day in the life of a resident. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand your daily life as a pediatric pharmacy resident. Some programs describe what a resident's day looks like on their website. If the program you applied to does not have that information, speak with former or current fellows and residents or visit the university or medical center and talk to the program directors. It would be best if you understood what your day entails before starting the program so there are no surprises.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"After speaking with a former resident of your program, I have a good understanding of the daily life of a resident. When I arrive at 7:00 a.m., I will sign into my workstation and review my patient's charts for half an hour. I will then go to the central pharmacy, retrieve the team mobile phone, and return to my workstation for an in-depth chart review and to work on pharmacy consults. After reviewing the charts, I will discuss interventions I would make with my preceptor. I will then attend rounds for approximately two hours. After lunch, I will attend the daily safety meeting and complete my rounds until my shift ends at 4 p.m."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Direct
11. Pediatric pharmacy is a reasonably competitive residency to match. Why should we choose you over other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A pediatric pharmacy residency is a somewhat competitive residency to match to, with a match rate of 73% in the United States. The interviewers want to hear why they should choose you over others competing to match. While there are many qualified candidates, you must let the interviewers know why you are a top-notch applicant. Tell the interviewers about your away rotations, research experience, volunteer work, USMLE scores, and any other achievements or accolades that will make the interviewers remember you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am sure many qualified applicants are applying to your program. However, it would be best if you chose me because of my dedication, research experience, and leadership skills. I have proven my dedication to this field by volunteering for the past six years at a children's hospital while attending pharmacy school. I have developed my research skills, given presentations, and written abstracts on pediatric pharmacotherapy while critically evaluating the original research. During my research experience, my leadership skills were noticed and commended by professors who told me I have natural leadership abilities. I look forward to the opportunity to bring these skills to your esteemed residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Direct
12. What made you choose our residency program over others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There were 1281 PGY1 pharmacy residency programs in the United States as of 2019. The interviewers want to hear that you have researched their program in depth and that you have also compared their program to many others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, dynamic and interactive training program, or because they are a research hospital. Let the interviewers know your reasons for choosing their pediatric pharmacy residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, my sister was a resident in your pediatric pharmacy program and highly recommended the training and guidance she received. Secondly, your program was the first pediatric pharmacy residency program in the country. After researching your program in greater depth, I was excited to see that you offer many opportunities in research, teaching, and patient care. You offer pathways for residents with specific career interests in medical education, patient safety, quality improvement, and global health. After reading all you have to offer and with the recommendation from my sister, there is no other program I would rather attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
13. What rotation in pharmacy school did you like the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Rotations in pharmacy school are designed to give students diverse experiences, including shadowing pharmacists, involvement with direct patient care, creating care plans, participating in community health education, and participation in the drug delivery process. Every pharmacy school will have slightly differently designed programs, but rotations are generally in internal medicine, critical care, pediatrics, emergency medicine, infectious disease, and transplant, to name a few. Tell the interviewers what rotation you enjoyed the most and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The rotation I liked the most that led me to pursue pediatric pharmacy was my pediatric rotation. That hands-on experience taught me that the pediatric population are not just small adults and must be treated completely differently. The rotation lasted four weeks, and I did not want it to end. I realized how much I love children and want to help them."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
14. Why are you pursuing a career as a pediatric pharmacist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspires and motivates you to pursue this career. They want to hear if another pediatric pharmacist mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from a pediatric pharmacist as a child.
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewers want to gain insight into what made you pursue this career path to see if you will be a good fit for their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am pursuing a career as a pediatric pharmacist after watching my little sister in pain after a major accident. The healthcare team was incredible, but the pharmacist stood out the most to me because she was able to relieve my sister's pain without any adverse effects. She took the time to get a thorough history from my parents to ensure my sister was not allergic to any medications or taking any medications that would adversely interact with the pain meds. After researching the role of a pediatric pharmacist, I decided this was the right career path for me."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
15. What was your least favorite rotation in pharmacy school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what your least favorite rotation was to gain insight into your personality. They will also see where you may struggle in the residency program and know when to step in and support you if necessary. Describe your least favorite rotation and what you did not enjoy about it.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My least favorite rotation was emergency medicine. I liked the excitement of working in the emergency department, but I discovered that I get queasy at the sight of blood and disfigured bodies. I did not have trouble completing my rotation, but it was not the most enjoyable for me."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
16. How would your friends describe your personality?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Personality is described as the combination of characteristics and qualities that form an individual's distinctive character. The interviewers ask this question to see how your friends view you and what they would say makes you unique to see if you will be a good candidate for their program. It is best to use three to four words that your friends would use to describe your personality, with examples to show why they would describe you that way.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My friends would describe my personality as outgoing, friendly, and compassionate. I make friends easily as I love to talk to people and get to know them personally, and I am always friendly with everyone I meet. I believe in treating everyone with kindness and respect and always helping someone when they need assistance. My friends constantly say I am a people person and that I chose the right profession to pursue."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
17. In the history of medicine, who do you most admire?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are many medical pioneers, such as Hippocrates, Louis Pasteur, Edward Jenner, Elizabeth Blackwell, William Osler, and Florence Nightingale, to name a few. The interviewers are curious about who you most admire to gain insight into your personality and to bring naturally curious residents into their program. Describe who you most admire in the history of medicine and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In the history of medicine, I most admire Hippocrates. He was the first person credited with believing that diseases were caused naturally and not because of superstition and gods. He believed and argued that disease was not a form of punishment inflicted by the gods but rather the product of environmental factors, living habits, and diet. Hippocrates has shaped the way we know medicine today, which is very admirable that he stood up for what he believed in."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
18. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress from the pressure of being a resident. They want to know that you have a healthy work/life balance and that you do not only study in your free time. While that may seem like a good answer, residents need time away from work and their studies to care for their mental and physical health and prevent burnout and illness.
Since you are applying for a residency, you want to put your best foot forward. You want to avoid describing interests that may seem unprofessional or unhealthy to the interviewers. Some examples of what to avoid are saying you enjoy spending your free time lying around watching movies, playing video games, or going clubbing with your friends. While those activities are harmless and a great way to unwind, the interviewers may view them as unhealthy or unprofessional for a pediatric pharmacy resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are surfing, trail running, and mountain biking. I also enjoy volunteering at the local children's hospital, gardening, and baking."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
19. Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will often ask this question first to break the ice and start the conversation. Take a few minutes to tell the interviewers about yourself, demonstrating essential skills and characteristics that are valuable as a pediatric pharmacy resident.
Taking the past, present, and future approach in your response is recommended. You'd like to mention how you started down this career path, what steps you have taken to get to where you are now, and what your future goals are. Be sure to highlight any promotions or achievements you are proud of and any other work-related accomplishments. You can mention extracurricular activities you are interested in, family life, or volunteer work if it ties in with the qualities needed for the position, showing you are a responsible and dedicated individual.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I grew up in a small town in Minnesota playing hockey and football. These sports taught me the importance of teamwork and how every person has specific skill sets to lead a team to victory. I also learned that teamwork is built on leadership, trust, and collaboration. During my teenage years, I suffered head and neck injuries that prohibited me from playing these sports. Undergoing the process of diagnosis and treatment allowed me to gain an appreciation for the multidisciplinary teams that helped me heal. I decided to pursue a pediatric pharmacist career to help others, as my pediatric pharmacist did for me. I can now enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking due to the exceptional care I received. After completing my residency, I plan to pursue a critical care fellowship since my passion is to help others with the same injuries I previously had. I am very excited to be interviewing for your program as it will help me achieve my goal of helping others with their quality of life and overall well-being."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
20. What are three strengths you would bring to our program as a resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see if you have the characteristics and qualities they seek in a resident. They want to hear that you are self-aware and confident enough to identify and describe your strengths. Think of three strengths that will help you succeed as a resident and bring value to the pediatric pharmacy residency program. Some strengths that will make you stand out as a candidate include the following:
- Strong work ethic
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Diligence
After listing your three strengths, give examples of how they will help you succeed as a resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The three strengths I would bring to the program as a resident is my thirst for knowledge, my strong work ethic, and my active listening skills. I look forward to working with my preceptors to train me further as a pediatric pharmacist. I actively listen to my patients, mentors, and colleagues, which earns their respect and trust. I always arrive early to work and do tasks before I am told. I actively seek ways to help others and look forward to bringing these strengths to your program as a resident."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
21. Tell us something about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers would like to learn more about you as a person. While you cannot share everything about your personal life and accomplishments on your CV, there must be something you are proud of that you would like to share. If possible, share something about yourself that shows the interviewers you would be a good fit for the residency program. For example, if you share that you compete in triathlons, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for residents to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Something I am proud of that is not on my CV is how I volunteer with an NGO that helps children in developing countries who suffer from tropical diseases. I have taken on a managerial role, organizing and producing fundraising events. In the past three years in this role, I have helped raise over three million dollars with my strategic marketing plan. The money is used for teams of pharmacists, physicians, and nurses to go to the communities that need help, and the children are offered free care and treatment. After my residency, I will be a part of the team that goes and provides pediatric medical care, which I am really looking forward to."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
22. What do you perceive to be the role of a pediatric pharmacist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The US government's National Institutes of Health explain that pediatric pharmacists are part of a multidisciplinary team that makes medication and dose recommendations based on several clinical factors, including the child's age, physiology, concomitant medications, and diagnosis. The interviewers would like to see that you understand your future role and can explain it to them. When you respond, the interviewers will be able to gain insight into your communication skills and your competency for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Pediatric pharmacists play a significant role on a multidisciplinary team. Pediatric pharmacists make medication and dose recommendations based on several clinical factors, including the child's age, physiology, concomitant medications, and diagnosis. Pediatric pharmacists are the best members of the team when selecting a pediatric patient's pharmacotherapy. Additionally, pediatric clinical pharmacists routinely serve on therapeutic and pharmaceutical committees and work closely with pharmacy information technology support."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
23. Who in your life has inspired you the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question to see if someone motivated you to pursue a career as a pediatric pharmacist and also to hear how you communicate and connect with other people. It is best to describe a person you are close to and avoid political or religious figures. You do not know the interviewers' beliefs, and you definitely do not want to offend anyone.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The person who has inspired me the most in my life is my brother. My parents were killed in an airplane crash when I was ten, and my brother was eighteen. He went to court to become my guardian and raised me by himself. He worked three jobs to support us and never once complained. Even though we were both grieving, he was always there and was an incredible role model. He taught me the value of hard work, setting goals, and achieving dreams. He went on to become a cardiologist and is the reason I chose to pursue a career in medicine."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Discovery
24. Tell us about your volunteer experience.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Volunteer experience is all unpaid activities and committees you have been involved in. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality traits and hobbies that are important to you, such as being on a leadership council or debate committee. Volunteerism also shows the interviewers that you like to give back to the community and are selfless with your time. Tell the interviewers about your volunteer experience, no matter how small it may seem. The more volunteer experience you have, the better your chance to match with the program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My family introduced me to volunteering at ten years old, and I continue to volunteer to this day. Before attending pharmacy school, I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics. During pharmacy school, I volunteered at a children's burn hospital every weekend and was the president of a student leadership council. After my residency, I plan to continue volunteering with International Medical Relief, dispensing medications in the sick care pharmacy."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Diversity
25. Our program prides itself on offering inclusive, non-discriminatory care. Do you agree with our approach?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to ensure that you understand their program's approach to care. They want to ensure that you agree with their vision and that your beliefs are inclusive of all. If you disagree that everyone should be included and not discriminated against, the interviewers will determine you may not be a good match for their residency program. Assure the interviewers that you accept all cultures and beliefs, even if they may not align with yours. The interviewers want residents who are open-minded and inclusive of all.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I completely agree with your approach. There is no room for discrimination anywhere, especially in healthcare. We care for patients at their most vulnerable moments, and it should not matter to anyone if they have different cultural or religious beliefs or come from different backgrounds. We are all human and must show each other empathy and compassion."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Stress
26. What part of pharmacy school was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what part of pharmacy school was most stressful to determine what aspects of the residency program may be challenging. They also want to hear how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The hardest part of pharmacy school was time management. After attending college for four years, I thought I had above-average time management skills, but pharmacy school was another story. With the increased course load and working a part-time job, it made time management very challenging and stressful. I started using a day planner and wrote down all my exams, meetings, practicals, shifts, bills, and due dates. I could then see where I had open gaps to schedule time for myself. I would use that time to exercise, rest, read for pleasure, and see friends and family. Once I got my time management under control, it made pharmacy school much less stressful."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Teamwork
27. Do you prefer to work independently or in a team setting?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a pediatric pharmacist, you will be required to work independently and in a team setting. The interviewers want to hear which you prefer to gain insight into your personality and the work environment you enjoy better. Describe which environment you prefer while explaining how you can work in either setting well.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prefer to work in a team setting as I have always enjoyed being part of a team and learning from others' experiences. I can work equally well independently and have had many jobs where I have had to work on my own, but I enjoy the camaraderie of a team and prefer a teamwork environment."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Teamwork
28. How will you earn the trust of your colleagues?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is essential to nurture workplace relationships. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new colleagues should you be matched for the residency. The interviewers would like to know how you can win your new colleagues over to determine if you will be a good fit for their program.
Focus on giving examples from your past. Describe how you earned the trust of your colleagues and classmates by getting to know them and their families, keeping your word when you say you are going to do something, lending a hand when others need help, or covering a colleague's shift when they have a family emergency.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"The best way to earn the trust of my colleagues is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles. I like to get to know about my colleague's families, share information about myself, respect their time, and offer assistance if needed."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Tough
29. What is one weakness you would like to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a pharmacist to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Describe a weakness related to your profession but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent pharmacist.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is remembering people's names when I first meet them. I understand it is a weakness in this profession because I need to remember my patients' and colleagues' names. I recently bought a book called 'How to Remember Names and Faces' by Luis Echeverria. He is a Memory Master Champion and guarantees success by reading his book and practicing memory training exercises. I have been reading the book for a week and have already found I remember people's names and faces better. I am confident this weakness will become a strength when I finish the book and the exercises."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Tough
30. What would you do if you saw a colleague stealing from the pharmacy?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pharmacists and pharmacy techs must be trustworthy and honest as they work with many pharmaceutical medications and narcotics. This behavioral question is asked so the interviewers can see how you would respond in a difficult situation. They want to know that you would not look the other way and that you have morals and ethics and will report the offense to a supervisor. Explain how you would handle this challenging situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"If I saw a colleague stealing from the pharmacy, I would immediately ask to speak to my supervisor privately. I would report what I saw and let them handle it from there. Even though I would be inclined to confront my colleague, tell them what I saw, and ask them to explain, I understand it is not my position to intervene; it is my supervisor's."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 28th, 2022