The College of Pharmacy interview serves two major functions. First, it improves the College's understanding of you as an individual. It adds a third dimension to the two-dimensional applicant who exists only in a file. Second, it gives you, the applicant, the opportunity to learn about the philosophies and personalities of the college from their faculty, staff, and students. You should not underestimate the importance of the interview--interviewers' comments may tip the balance in Admissions Committee deliberations.
The format of the interview will be one in which an individual applicant meets with a single faculty member and, if it can be arranged, a pharmacy student. The interview process will last approximately 30 minutes.
You should be aware that you are being evaluated during your entire visit with us. More than one candidate has erred by being rude to a secretary or behaving inappropriately in the reception area.
Awareness of the importance of the interview process naturally leads to anxiety in most students. A certain amount of anxiety is expected and understood by most interviewers. Indeed, the student who appears overconfident to the point of boredom and disinterest is suspect to some interviewers. Planning for the interview can reduce excessive anxiety. In addition, to help ease anxiety, the College provides a hospitality suite for applicants who arrive early. It is hosted by current pharmacy students. This gives applicants an opportunity to meet with current students, get a flavor of the College, and ask those burning questions that only fellow students can answer.
Good planning prior to the interview is largely a matter of common sense. The tips listed below may help you in this regard.
Etiquette. Interviews are initiated and arranged by the College. It is your responsibility to respond to the interview invitation promptly. In case of an irresolvable conflict, e.g. you work and your employer will not give you release time; you should call the College immediately to discuss rescheduling your interview.
Knowledge of the Profession and the College. Candidates are strongly encouraged to become familiar with general information about the college, as well as, current and future roles of pharmacists in the health care delivery system. Candidates should be able to express thoughtful and insightful reasons for joining the profession of pharmacy and attending the University of Texas College of Pharmacy.
Dress. Men generally wear coats and ties or dress pants and a sweater; women wear skirts, dresses or well-tailored pantsuits. Overdressing (cocktail or party dresses) is as inappropriate as under dressing (jeans, T-shirts, tennis shoes, etc.)
Punctuality. Arriving for interviews on time is important. Applicants should allow time for the unexpected, e.g. inclement weather or heavy traffic. In the event of an unavoidable delay, you should call the Student Affairs Office (512) 471-1737 at the first opportunity.
Honesty. Candidates ought not to try and "second guess" or patronize the interviewer(s) by responding with answers they think are wanted. Some interviewers play the "devil's advocate." When " I don't know" is the honest reply, it should be used.
Responsiveness. Conversation is difficult if the candidate's responses are limited to "yes" and "no". Many questions are chosen intentionally to initiate dialogue.
Student Interviewers. Candidates should treat student interviewers as they would faculty interviewers.