Most respondents felt positively about their interview.
What was the stress level of the interview?
Most respondents rated their interview as average stress.
How you think you did?
Most respondents thought they performed well at the interview.
How do you rank this school among ALL other schools?
Most respondents rank this school above all other schools.
How do you rank this school among other schools to which you've applied?
Most respondents rank this school above other schools they applied to.
0 = Below, 10 = Above
💬 Interview Questions ▼
What is one of the specific questions they asked you?
The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools include inquiries about the applicant's contributions to the field, their ability to handle teamwork and stress, their motivation for pursuing pharmacy, experiences with group projects, and plans for their PharmD degree. Some respondents mentioned questions specific to the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format, implying a structured interview process where a nondisclosure agreement may have been in effect.
1) how will you contribute to make the field better?
If you had a client with some kind of disability (eg hearing or vision impaired), how can you help them receive and understand instructions/information you are trying to give them?
What would you do in this situation:
1.) You are putting a lot of effort in a class, but you are just not getting the materials and receiving poor-mediocre marks.
2.) Someone in your group is not motivated and not pulling their weight in a project.
How does your the major that you declared for (mine was biology) relate to pharmacy (if it does at all? How does math and chemistry fit in with pharmacy?
Do you have any questions for me? (I asked a lot of questions. Come prepared with GOOD questions about the school, curriculum, faculty, etc. to show you're interested in their school)
We've received over 1000 applications this year. Tell us why we should pick you? What qualities do you possess that make you unique in this applicant pool?
Students said most interesting question asked at Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson College of Pharmacy discussed various aspects of pharmacy practice and teamwork, such as handling toxic medications, characteristics of good pharmacists, qualities for group work, and assisting patients with reading prescription labels. Some responses indicated an MMI format with questions about group dynamics, patient interactions, and personal experiences, potentially under a nondisclosure agreement.
if a preceptor wanted you do dispense a medication that was toxic or bad for the patient
What Questions do you have for me? This was an interesting question becuase it was the very first question the interviewer asked me. I sat down ready to be interviewed, and the first thing she said is what questions do I have. This should give you a feel for how laid back the faculty and admissions is. Really nice people.
Do you have any questions for us? (they were able to answer all the questions that I had, which helped a lot to ease my stress since I wasn't the only one talking)
I see that you're from _____, that's quite away from Philadelphia. How do you see yourself adjusting to the environment? How will you adjust to being away from your family? How challenging will the transition from being an undergraduate to a graduate student be? (Compounded question!)
Why did you score so low on verbal and reading comprehension on the PCAT? (Well.. I expected that it'll come up since it was open file so I was prepared for it!)
Students said the most difficult question asked at Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson College of Pharmacy discussed various topics such as why they should be chosen over other candidates, professionalism, qualities of a pharmacist, and how they handled specific situations. Some respondents mentioned an MMI format or nondisclosure agreement, indicating that questions may have been structured in that format and subject to confidentiality constraints.
None were difficult, they asked why pharmacy, and if I would fit into their program. The Why pharmacy question can be difficult if you only want to be in the field for selfish reasons, then that would be the most difficult question in my opinion.
(1st question of the interview ... right after I sat down) We received well over 1500 applications for 75 seats. Why should we choose you? (I was surprised and stumbled a bit, but I managed to regain my calmness)
"Why should we pick you?".. I know this is a very generic question but I have trouble w/ it! After I told him my qualities, he still wasn't convinced and asked me 3 times! hahahaa... He was cool though. He gave me quite a few chances to express myself. Remember to always give examples and backups for everything you say.
Most respondents rate the school location as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
What is your ranking of this area's cultural life?
Most respondents rate the area’s cultural life as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
What are your comments on where you stayed?
No responses
✅ Interview Preparation and Impressions ▼
How is the friendliness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was friendly.
How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.
How did you prepare for the interview?
Most applicants prepared for the interview by extensively utilizing resources like Student Doctor Network (SDN) for common questions and practicing with mock interviews. They also emphasized the importance of researching the school, reflecting on personal experiences, and practicing speaking skills to appear confident and well-prepared.
Went over my speaking skills, practiced with questions like: what was my favorite course in college, why Jefferson (basically very general questions). Also ate a good breakfast and got lots of sleep the night before (didn't want look tired).
Excellent information from SDN forum. Each morning, I ask myself 1 possible interview question, then come up with various answers for that question. Mock interview with myself in front of a mirror the night before the interview. Good breakfast. Talk to other interviewees to relax my nerves before interview.
Applicants were overwhelmingly impressed by the friendliness and warmth of the staff, faculty, and current students at the school, as well as the quick response time from the admissions team. They also appreciated the school's focus on interdisciplinary relationships, the innovative curriculum, the school's location and facilities, and the overall welcoming atmosphere of the campus. Many highlighted the supportive and conversational interview process, along with the school's quick decision-making and efficient communication.
The interviewers were very nice and easy going. The interview was more like a conversation; I think I asked the 2nd interviewer more questions than she asked me. The facilities and campus location are also nice. Jefferson is also very quick with their response. I received my acceptance 11 days after my interview!
The faculty seemed very dedicated, sincere, and eager to be of help. My first interviewer told me a lot of positive things about their program- they seemed to really want to make their program become something great, and I think that it will.
The faculty was extremely nice and responsive. I liked the conversation-style of the interview. They did not just spit out questions after questions, but one of them was really responsive towards my answers to her questions. She commented on my response in a positive light which eased my nerves a bit. Even the receptionist was welcoming! They all seemed to be well-qualified and have previous experience from other institutions. Current students said that the faculty knows all their students and calls them by their name, which can be intimidating. But coming from a big university, I feel like I didn't really have that close relationship with my professors. I like the variety of IPPE sites offered and the program overall. Liked the area.. I am looking forward to the urban feel but also living in a safer part of the city. Everything is pretty much walking distance as I could just roll out of bed and go to class if I wanted. Aside from the academic/school-related questions, the meeting with current students helped with questions you may not feel comfortable asking faculty members.. social atmosphere, housing situations, etc. Facilities were nice and close. The simulation rooms were great and there's Harvey the pharm dummy? Two other current students joined the tour and all four of them seemed really close and joked around.. so yay for camaraderie! I hope to have that close-knit community with my future class too.
The school responds very quickly, except at the very en, to notify me of my acceptance. The other other interview dates found out they were accepted in 4-13 days. My group still hasn't found out if they were accepted, and its day 12. The only reason I know I got in is because I emailed the assistant dean and asked him. they are very nice and quick to respond in general. Campus is really integrated into the city, faculty is very kind, hospital is on campus, it's in the middle of the city, lots of things to do and places to eat. Lots of diversity in the area.
The fact that the school is situated right in the city where there is a major hospital within walking distance. That the students who conducted the interview were happy with the school even though it is relatively new. That the clinical rotations are scheduled to be coordinated through the school. That it is a real city where you will see a heterogeneous mix of individuals and professionals walking about. That the class size is around 75 students and there is a lot of interaction as we were told by students and professors since they want this school to succeed.
The student's Q&A. They gave me the most insight on what it would be like to be a student there. The school really pushes interdisciplinary relationships which I love.
The area, everything is walking distance, the dorms were clean and all apartment style, there is a gym in the basement of each dorm, the hospital facility, the faculty members were very nice and professional, the cafeteria food smelled good.
Extremely quick responses. I sent in PharmCas late (2/02/09), submitted short supplemental application (2/23), received interview invitation (3/06), had my interview (3/14), and received my acceptance (3/23). The staff were so nice, Erica (one of the secretaries) chatted with us while we waited for our interviews. That helped me a lot! The program is really awesome, a lot of real world experience over the 4 years, not just on the 4th year.
The faculty, admissions committee and the current students were fabulous and extremely nice! Curriculum has a very innovative aspect where it puts you in a group with students from other health disciplines and assigns you to work with a patient who has a chronic illness. This definitely exposes you to more patient care starting year 1! The atmosphere of the school and city were very lively. Food and restaurants at every corner. Everything is walking distance! Guaranteed on-campus housing for first year students!
Applicants commonly expressed concerns about disorganization during the interview process, lack of emphasis on research opportunities, high tuition costs, and inadequate or incomplete campus tours. Suggestions included providing clearer instructions, offering more in-depth tours of facilities, and addressing issues related to campus amenities and affordability.
It felt a little disorganized and we didn't have an itinerary for the day or a folder to look through so it was a little awkward during the introduction and powerpoint presentation!
The school is nice but it doesn't seem to put emphasis on helping students who are interested in research as there are not a lot of open opportunities. It also seems to be a bit out of my price range.
The student who took us on the tour wasn't very helpful in answering our questions. I could sense some insecurity in her responses. The way she carried out the tour was also confusing and a bit frustrating- she seemed unsure of where next to take us, and it took a while for her to actually get us inside one of the rooms. I didn't particularly like the facilities because they felt somewhat cramped and old- especially when walking through the flight of stairs (If I remember correctly, the escalator or elevator was not working on that day). Also, I felt from both pharmacy students speaking to us that though they may be happy studying there, they also seemed worried or indefinite- whether that be personal or curriculum-imposed.
The tour really didn't give me a firsthand experience of the residence halls/dorms, library, lecture halls. I just saw the exterior and/or glimpse of the gym, pool and simulation labs. Living in the city would be expensive in general. The weather in Philly was freezing (note that I'm from Cali) but nothing I can't get used to. Obviously, there will be adjustments over the years but they are open to change and care a lot about student opinion.
The program is very new which has pros and cons, Living on campus will cost you at least $1000 a month, there was a rat in my hotel that had me on my bed screaming like a girl, and I wish the tour was more in depth, we saw the campus, and the apartments, but not the class, or library, or cafeteria, or the hospital.
It is in the city and that can be expensive to live there in terms of rent. At the same time, you can walk anywhere. That it is perhaps going to be too much money to have a car because of parking. The fact that some of the class rooms don't look as up to date as other schools with wi-fi and outlet plugs. Doesn't look like students need lab tops during lecture.
Overall the interview process was a little disorganized, the students that took us on tours did not keep track of time. Also I didn't feel that the student question and answer session was very helpful.
Would have like to see inside more of the buildings on the tour. We got to see inside the apartment complex, but did not get to see the dorms, cafe, or inside the sites for the practical use.
Applicants commonly wished they had known more about the layout of the campus, where to park, and the relaxed and conversational nature of the interview process. They also mentioned the importance of preparing thoughtful questions and being aware of potential timing constraints during the interview.
That the buildings were a little scattered around the blocks and it was on a street so you couldn't really park on the street and the parking lots are $5 for 30 mins.
I wish that I had known I would be called right away following the Q&A session- I had to use the laboratory at that time, and was about 5mins late coming into my interview. They end right at the time they're supposed to; they don't take the 30mins if that means the time would go over.
That it would be a relatively conversational tone in the interview. That the questions would be very direct. SDN is great to read through and very helpful.
How laid back it would be, I was expecting to be questioned about grades and coursework, but did not get much of that. It would have been nice to know that so I did not stress out so much the night before.
I wish I had known Dr. S has a powerfully intense gaze. Her eyes seem like they saw into my soul. She played the "scary" interviewer, but she's nice!
Applicants generally commented on positive interview experiences, highlighting the friendly and relaxed atmosphere, quick response times, and the opportunity to showcase enthusiasm and knowledge about the school. Suggestions included being prepared with questions, staying calm, and engaging in conversations to alleviate nerves during the interview process.
Throughout my admission process, they were really nice and informing. At interview, it was one on one but really get to know you kind of question so my nervousness was gone by the time interview has started
I was very impressed by this school. They draw on a strong medical background and have brought in very high quality and experienced instructors and leaders from other Pharmacy schools.
The interview with both people were very conversational. One of my interviewers was really nice. She asked me questions for like 5 minutes and I asked her questions for another 5 minutes. The rest of the time we were talking about the weather. Lol
The best way to prep is to make a list of questions and to practice speaking so that you don't sound rehearsed but you know what to say. Come up with at least 15 questions to ask the interviewers, or make them up as the interviewer is speaking. Basically, show them that you know a lot about the school and that you're very interested in going there. Remember to smile and speak a little slowly and confidently :)
It was a generally good experience being able to visit the school and talk to the professors and students. I was nervous throughout the day and during the interview itself, but the professors can really see through us. So I guess I did well enough to have been admitted to the school. Good luck to you! :)
Go to your interview a little bit early and talk with the prospective students.. you know, to scope out the competition. Haha kidding, but no really.. just talking to your peers who are going through the same stressful situation helped ease a lot of my nerves and kept my mind off different ways I can screw up.
School is one of the better newer programs in my opinion. they breezed through the accreditation process, and will most likely get full accreditation with ease. They are very focused on integrated health care, and interdisciplinary learning, and the faculty is extremely responsive and nice. It is a true city campus, and would be a fun and opportunistic environment to learn in. Good luck to all that apply, hope this helps you as it did help me.
Although many on SDN have lauded Jefferson, it is only 2 years in the making. Just keep that in mind always, because this is your life(!). Also realize that there seem to be a lot of vocal/risk-taker/bold types who are here on SDN and were willing to go for a new school.
There are two separate interviews. THe first was more concerned about my school aspects (stresses/group work) and the second was more concerned with my work experience. Overall, it was a nice experience, but the second interviewer made me feel very uncomfortable.
Do not be nervous. If you are nervous talk to your fellow interviewees. That is what I did and it took a load of pressure off. The interview is more like a conversation so dont be too nervous.
Also If you have no pharmacy experience don't worry, I didn't and still got in!!! Just make sure you have excellent grades in college and that you do good on your PCAT.
I love this school. My advice to an interviewee would be to just relax and be yourself (but not too much, don't talk like you're with your pals). Show enthusiasm and knowledge about the school, so that you can have questions to ask them (if you ask good question, they will talk about the program and won't ask you rapid questions!).
The interview process was VERY organized and prompt! We came and were split into two groups. I was in Group 1, so I took the writing test first, then participate in a Question and Answer session with current students, then interviewed separately with 2 faculty members (30 min. for each interviewer). For Group 2, it's vice versa, which means they got interviewed first, writing test, then Q & A session. At the end, both groups went on a campus and hospital tour! It was lovely. I got my acceptance email 11 days later! The fastest I've seen from other students was 1 week later!!! Good luck!!
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
Most applicants found the admissions office to be accommodating and responsive, with a suggestion to improve the information sessions and reduce waiting times during the interview process. Some applicants recommended better selling of the school during new program interviews and providing information on parking options.
The period of time in which we all sat and waited for our next event (the Q&A session, in my case) felt very quiet and tense. I think it would have been nice to fit in an info session or introduction from a faculty or staff member. We waited for about 30 mins feeling very nervous and bored. We would have benefited from having the info packet at the beginning, rather than at the end of our interview day- I really didn't get why they did it this way.