MockQuestions

Pharmacy Residency Mock Interview

37 Questions Created By

37 Pharmacy Residency Interview Questions and Answer Examples to Help You Prepare for Your Residency Interviews.

First Question

37 Pharmacy Residency Interview Questions

15 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   Why do you want to pursue this pharmacy subspecialty training and do you feel our program will help meet your goals?

How to Answer

After finishing eight years of schooling to obtain a Pharm. D. degree, most new pharmacists are ready to hit the workforce. Those who pursue additional residency training are often the most motivated to further specialize their career and your interviewer wants to hear you talk about those motivations and aspirations from your perspective. They're essentially looking to hear that you see their program as a great fit for achieving your overall goals, so make sure that you highlight which aspects of their program speak the loudest to you.

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

Answer Example

"Over the last year of my pharmacy program, I really focused my studies and pursued residency training to obtain a future in transplant pharmacy. Patients receiving life-changing transplants in GI, thoracic, and cardiology often require the most intensive care and treatment and I'm looking forward to a future of being a part of those care teams. During my PGY-2 year with your program, I would really look forward to working closely with your abdominal and lung transplant team, while also gaining more experience in the trauma and life support centers at this amazing hospital. Hearing more about the program today, I'm confident that this would be a great fit for me as a person and toward helping me achieve my future career goals."

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

2.   Why should we rank you high for matching into our pharmacy residency program?

How to Answer

Following the application and interview process for pharmacy residency programs, both applicants and programs submit a rank order list to the NSM Match System and an algorithm is run to place individuals into positions. During your interview, the program will give you the chance to give your best sales pitch on why you should be the top candidate they rank for a match. Take advantage of this opportunity by discussing the educational qualifications you would bring to their program and the future goals and aspirations you have that will help make you a memorable alum there.

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

Answer Example

"First and foremost, I don't think you're going to find a more motivated pharmacist than me to train in a world-class program like you have here. Becoming a pediatric pharmacist will truly be a dream come true for me, with the ability to treat patients and support families that are going through the toughest times of their lives. As a resident of your program, I will jump at every opportunity to learn and shadow anyone and am willing to put in the long hours and days in the coming year."

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

3.   What do you feel are your biggest weaknesses you would have as a new pharmacy resident?

How to Answer

PharmD students who look to take that extra step towards building their career with further residency training can be pretty green, and the residency interview team is fully aware of this fact. Whether you are considering a specific subspecialty like ambulatory care or cardiology or learning more advanced skills like nutrition support or informatics, you should be aware of where you need further knowledge and skills. Your interview team will appreciate the fact that you are aware of your shortcomings and have a plan for addressing them if you match into their program, so be sure to put some thought into this before your interview and come prepared to discuss your drive and willingness to tackle your weaknesses.

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

Answer Example

"From my first years in pharmacy training, becoming a Nuclear Pharmacist has been a long-time goal of mine. While I've spent as much time in rotation in the field during my training, I of course would come to your program pretty raw in calibrating scintillation detectors and survey meters. I have a very strong technological grasp on things and am confident that I will be able to learn quickly in this area with hands-on training. I can also see how my lack of mathematics education over the last four years can be seen as a weakness, but I'm actually very strong in math and look forward to learning more in radiation physics and mathematics of radioactivity classes in your program."

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 18th, 2024

4.   What are you hoping to accomplish by pursuing pharmacy residency training?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Pursuing additional residency training beyond pharmacy school is optional. You could choose to join the workforce and earn a much larger paycheck right away, but instead you are motivated to spend an extra year or two gaining more career knowledge. Your interviewers want to find out your reason for pursuing residency training.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Discuss some of what you're hoping to learn and accomplish during your time training with their Pharmacy Residency. Whether you are simply looking to hone your leadership skills and clinical competencies in a one-year program or are looking to subspecialize in a two-year residency, speak openly and honestly about your goals over the next year or two as a resident.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"At the end of my residency year(s), I hope to have grown as a teacher, both in the teaching certificate program and as a preceptor as well as with my patients in the ambulatory clinic. I am really passionate about helping others learn, and I believe completing residency here will strongly develop me as an educator. Additionally, I am excited to continue doing research and am thinking about topics I want to learn more about. I hope that by the end of the year, I can do a few presentations or even get my work published. I think next June, I will feel accomplished looking back, knowing I developed myself as both a teacher and researcher."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

5.   How do you adapt and deal with the continually changing pharmacy environment?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Pharmacists must be prepared to handle things that are out of their control, so being adaptable is very important. This holds true during Pharmacy Residency training as well. Your interviewers ask this question to understand how you would handle the day-to-day changes that are part of training as a resident in their program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Ideally, you want to paint a picture of your ability to "roll with changes" in the pharmacy easily and demonstrate that you can thrive in a dynamic environment. To do this, try to highlight your awareness on the job, your attention to detail and critical thinking skills, your collaboration skills, and your open mindset toward handling anything that comes your way.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"I'm someone who likes change. I seek out new challenges, and I tend to get bored if things are the same every day. For example, I rearrange my living room every few months just to change things up. I know that in residency training, things change all the time. I believe I'm adaptable and can handle it, as long as I can ask questions along the way. I will thrive in residency because change energizes me."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

6.   Being a clinical pharmacist is an incredibly stressful and demanding career. How will you manage stress as a resident in our program?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Work-related burnout and stress has become much more prevalent among pharmacists in recent years. The long shifts, changes in demands, and high work loads have all added to the increased levels of stress in the profession, and you will be exposed to all these during your Pharmacy Residency training. Your interviewers want to hear that you can manage the daily stresses in a healthy manner.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

This is where you can talk about self-care--both while at work and and during your personal time. You should discuss what you do when you're stressed at work and how you manage it and how you take care of yourself outside of work. Make sure to give detailed responses that address how you cope with stress in both work and personal settings.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"One thing I made sure to do in pharmacy school and on rotations was get a minimum of six hours of sleep. Making sure I'm well rested ensures I arrive at work fresh and ready to navigate any challenges I might face. During the day, I like taking little walks or a five minute break just to re-center myself when needed. Working in a hospital is obviously stressful, which is why it is really important to take care of myself outside of work too. For example, on Monday nights, I play in a soccer league. That helps me manage my stress physically through exercise while doing a hobby I love."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

7.   Tell us about a time when things didn't go your way. How did you respond?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The dynamic nature of working in a busy pharmacy means that things won't always go as planned for a Pharmacy Resident. Your interviewer is looking to see how adaptable you are. In residency, things change all the time, so they want to see how you deal with change and how you respond.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Your interviewers are asking for a direct example, so be sure to have something specific prepared (prior to your interview) that proves your ability to face an unexpected challenge head on. Your example should outline what the problem was, the steps you took to fix it, and the an outcome that reflects your ability to solve problems.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"All through pharmacy school, I've had the same roommate and lived in the same apartment. Recently, she told me she was running out of money and needed to move back in with her parents. We're only about 6 months from graduation, and our lease is month-to-month, so I imagined we'd stay through graduation. Initially, I was really surprised and upset, because I didn't see this coming. After I took some time to think about it, I decided I'd stay and find a new roommate. I'm sad she's leaving, but I think it will be nice to have some change. We posted her room on a few room rental websites and told some of our classmates. Fortunately, one of our other classmates did decide to move in to be closer to her rotations. I feel like this is the best-case scenario, and I am proud of myself for not getting too overwhelmed in the process."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

8.   What is one weakness you would strive to improve during pharmacy residency training?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

As your interviewers consider a large pool of pharmacy students applying to match into their Pharmacy Residency program, they know that no single candidate is perfect. They'll want you to acknowledge your weaknesses and show that you have put thought into how you plan on addressing them during your time training with their program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

This question assesses your insight and level of self-reflection. There are several different ways to respond, but ultimately you want to show you are someone who thoughtfully reflects on themselves and sets goals for improvement. You can consider talking about the opposite perspective of the strength you discussed previously. You could also talk about something entirely different, but once again, show that you're working on improving some aspect of your personal or professional skillset.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"As I mentioned previously, my top strength is being an "achiever." While being an achiever is really helpful, I know there are downsides to it too. For example, I am driven to get everything done--right here and now. I've learned, however, that it is really important for me to prioritize and to rest and take breaks. I've been working on putting my own well-being ahead of my achieving nature. Even though it feels weird sometimes, I know it's for the best, and I can jump right back in where I left off with a clear head."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

9.   What personal and clinical strengths would you bring to our team as a pharmacy resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

The interview and match process for Pharmacy Residency programs is competitive, with about 50% of candidates successfully matching each year. Your interviewers want to hear candidates discuss their own view of their strengths to help them determine who will be a great fit for their program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

This is a good time to discuss a strength that would be beneficial for a resident (leadership, organization, empathy, etc.). You can also take the Gallup Strengths Finders assessment online for some tangible data and talking points. Be sure to talk about how the skill you discuss will benefit you as a resident and allow you to contribute to the program.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"According to my Strengths Finders assessment, one of my top strengths is being an "achiever." As an achiever, I always want to make sure my work is done well and on time. This strength will help me as a resident because I know I'll be involved in many projects, and I'll be motivated to finish them promptly and accurately."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

10.   Tell us about one of your journal clubs during your pharmacy school.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

During your time in pharmacy school, you hopefully participated in journal clubs to help you critically evaluate pharmacological literature. While this is a very open-ended question that you could take in any direction, your interviewers ideally want to hear you discuss what you learned during your time in journal clubs that you can bring to the table as a resident with their program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

This is time to share about what you learned during your presentation(s), who you presented to, and why you chose the topic (if it wasn't assigned). Be sure to discuss how this will impact your work going forward as a Pharmacy Resident.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"I recently did a journal club presentation on low-dose edoxaban in elderly patients. Studies show that a once-daily dose, between 15 and 30 mg, can help in preventing stroke or systemic embolism without evidence of significant bleeding. Going forward, I will want to keep this in mind when working with elderly patients, especially those at risk for atrial complications."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

11.   What qualities are you looking for in a preceptor as a pharmacy resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Continuing your training as a resident for one to two years means you will work side-by-side with a preceptor or two. Your interviewing team wants to ensure you have realistic expectations of the preceptor/resident relationship and that you would be a good fit with the preceptor you'll be working with during your residency with their program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

This is a time to tell your interviewers what type of preceptor and supervisor you work best with. Discuss things you've liked about previous preceptors and what you've learned from them. Focus on positive traits and avoid talking about things you don't like.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"I would really enjoy working with a preceptor who gives me space to learn and take initiative. I had a really great preceptor during pharmacy school. I felt like I could ask questions anytime, and I knew he would not only answer the question but also provide really insightful information and context regarding the subject. He would show me how to do something within the pharmacy and then trusted me to do the same later without him. I really appreciated the educational environment that allowed me to try things without the fear of making a mistake. I think I grew the most as a pharmacist with this preceptor, and I hope to continue working with preceptors who care about my education, provide thoughtful training, and allow some level of autonomy."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

12.   What was the last pharmacological article you read?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Evolution in the pharmacy practice is inevitable. New drugs are approved on an almost daily basis, technology continues to change, and regulations and billing codes evolve over time. In this question, your interviewers want to see if you're staying up to date on current trends in pharmacy and healthcare.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Talk openly and honestly about the last pharmacy related topic you read about. As you answer, make it clear to your interviewer that you thrive on being a true student in the profession and that you see the benefit of continuing to do this throughout your career.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"I recently read an article by MIT about the Global Macroeconomic implications of COVID. Living through this as a pharmacy student over the last 2 years has been eye-opening, especially as a student, and it will be interesting to see the impacts this virus has both in the US and globally for years to come. COVID's effects on healthcare are obviously paramount, yet the virus will make some huge economic impacts as well. It is interesting to see the domino effect and how important access to healthcare is."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

13.   What does patient safety mean to you as a pharmacist?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Patient safety and the Patient Safety Movement are hot new topics within healthcare, and this is especially true for pharmacists. Your interviewers need to be assured that you will join their program as a resident with a sharp focus on patient safety at all times.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Each year, many patients die or are injured due to mistakes made by the healthcare team. Talk in some detail about the steps that pharmacists can take to ensure the safety and well-being of the patients that they work with. To ground your answer, discuss what you're going to do to prevent errors in your work as a resident with their program.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"Patient safety is a really important and meaningful aspect of healthcare. In class, we've talked a lot about the Patient Safety Movement and watched several videos about preventable harm for patients. Every year, we recite "The Oath of the Pharmacist," and I think, as pharmacists, we are called to protect our patients, make the relief of suffering our primary concern, and hold ourselves and colleagues to a code of morals and ethics. We need to do everything in our power to keep our patients safe. The patient safety movement is about reducing errors made by the medical team, and I want to be conscious of both what my team and I are doing. I want to continue being aware and paying attention to everything going on around me, using my education to critically think about disease states and medication interactions. I believe this generation of pharmacists and healthcare providers can put a stop to unnecessary patient harm. I am really passionate about keeping patients safe, and I will work my hardest to do so for my entire career."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

14.   What are your plans if you don't match into a pharmacy residency this year?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Most years, the competition for matching into a Pharmacy Residency program is significant, as only around 50% of applicants match. In asking this question, your interviewers want to know if you have a backup plan. In a sense, this question is asked to see if you're putting all your eggs in one basket.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

Give a thoughtful response that shows you have a plan in the event you don't match. Discuss whether or not you'd apply again and what you'll do as an alternative. Ideally, you should assure your interviewers that not matching isn't a stopping point on your career path and that you'd continue to put your best foot forward.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"If I don't match this year, I admit I'll be disappointed on Match Day, but I have other plans just in case. As we've discussed, I currently work at a local compounding pharmacy, and they've offered me a job as a pharmacist once I graduate. I've learned a lot there and know I could be happy working there after I graduate--at least for a while. If I don't match this year, I will apply again next year. I will work with my mentors to figure out some ways to continue learning and growing so that I can hopefully be a stronger applicant. I may volunteer in a hospital or shadow pharmacists and will definitely continue working on research with my professor. I think not matching this year would motivate me to push myself harder and help me reevaluate my goals and what I'm doing to get there."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

15.   What is one interesting issue facing pharmacists today, and how would you plan on tackling this as a pharmacy resident?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

There are a number of issues that pharmacists and the pharmacy industry are facing today. In asking this question, your interviewers are looking to see if you are genuinely curious and interested in the field and to hear you highlight what you feel is one of the most concerning issues you will face as a resident in their Pharmacy Residency program.

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021

How to Answer

From working with addicts to the added responsibilities that are continuously being placed on pharmacists, there are many issues that you could potentially discuss in your answer. Ideally, you will pick an issue you can speak passionately about. Prior to your Pharmacy Residency interview, be sure to read up on the issue and be prepared to speak knowledgably on the subject.

Written by Ryan Brunner on March 11th, 2022

Answer Example

"In all honesty, I feel that prescription pill addiction is the most significant issue we're facing now and will continue to face in the future. As pharmacists, we must help determine the difference between need vs. abuse, and this requires a true team effort. In the pharmacy, we need to be diligent about ensuring prescriptions are valid and only coming from one physician. Ensuring the identity of each patient is also vital in helping to stop abuse."

Written by Erica Wondra on December 1st, 2021