The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy will be hosting virtual interviews this 2025 application cycle using the (MMI) Multiple Mini Interview format.
For those of you who receive an interview offer, our faculty, students, alumni, staff and administrators look forward to welcoming you to our interviews and getting the opportunity to visit with you during interviews and our showcase.
Interviews for 2025 Application Cycle
Fall Priority Interviews
- Fall Interview Session I (Two Parts)
- Part I: Interview Hour (TBD)
- Part II: Interview Slot (Sunday, October 20, 2024; 2.5 Hour Slot CST)
- Fall Interview Session II (Two Parts)
- Part I: Interview Hour (TBD)
- Part II: Interview Slot (Sunday, October 27, 2024; 2.5 Hour Slot CST)
Spring Interviews
- Spring Interview Session I (Two Parts)
- Part I: Interview Hour (TBD)
- Part II: Interview Slot (TBD)
- Spring Interview Session II (Two Parts)
- Part I: Interview Hour (TBD)
- Part II: Interview Slot (TBD)
Interview Details
Multiple Mini-Interviews (MMI)
What is an MMI?
MMI stands for multiple mini-interviews. Instead of sitting down with one or two individuals for the interview with a series of prepared questions, the MMI process leads you through 6 different MMI stations with one or two interviewers per station.
Each station will involve some type of scenario or activity that must be performed. Some of the stations will involve interacting one-on-one with the interviewer.
Why the MMI Interview Format?
The purpose of the MMI is to assess non-cognitive qualities of interview candidates, such as:
- Compassion
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Ethical reasoning
- Integrity
- Leadership
- Motivation to become a pharmacist
- Organizational efficiency
- Problem solving
- Relationship-building
- Respect towards others
- Teamwork
These qualities provide insights into a candidate’s interpersonal skills and professionalism during the interview process.
MMIs are NOT designed to evaluate specific knowledge about pharmacy or medications, but provide insights into the candidates’ thought processes and problem solving capabilities.
How do you prepare for an MMI interview?
- Investigate information about the College of Pharmacy and its programs prior to interview day.
- Practice with another individual so they can assist in timed responses and feedback.
- Understand the purpose of the MMI interview process.
- Review current health care issues.
What to expect during an MMI interview?
The interview applicant will participate in 6 MMI stations. Each station will last 7 minutes. MMI Interviews will be conducted by faculty and alumni affiliated with UT Austin College of Pharmacy.
Interview Day
Function of our Interview Sessions
Interview day serves two major functions:
- It allows the college to know and understand you as an individual. It adds a third dimension to the two-dimensional applicant who exists only in a file.
- It gives you the opportunity to learn the philosophies and personalities of the college by way of the faculty, staff and students.
Format
Your MMI Interview Session will be a 2.5 hour event that includes a virtual showcase and admission session on next steps. Upon receiving instructions and guidance in selecting an MMI Interview Session, you’ll want to make sure you’ve noted the event in your calendar.
Key Points
- Do not underestimate the importance of the interview. The interviewers’ evaluations may tip the balance in the Admission Committee's deliberations.
- You should be aware that you are being evaluated during your entire visit with us.
- Awareness of the importance of the interview can induce anxiety in most students. A certain amount of anxiety is expected and understood by most interviewers.
- Planning for the interview can reduce excessive anxiety.
- We want your interview experience to be exciting, informative and memorable.
- We are excited to welcome you to the UT Austin campus and show you what makes our college great!
Preparing for Interview Day
Etiquette
Interviews are initiated and arranged by the college. It is the candidate’s responsibility to respond to the interview invitation promptly. In the event of an irresolvable conflict, contact the college immediately.
Knowledge of the profession
Interviewees are strongly encouraged to become familiar with the current and future roles of pharmacists in the health care delivery system. Interviewees should be able to express thoughtful and insightful reasons for joining the profession of pharmacy.
Knowledge of the college
Interviewees are strongly encouraged to become familiar with general information about the college. We provide a hospitality suite hosted by current pharmacy students during the interview schedule. This gives interviewees an opportunity to meet with current students, get a flavor of the college, help ease anxiety, and ask those burning questions that only current pharmacy students can answer.
Attire
Interviewees typically wear a business suit for the interview, as this attire is most appropriate for the occasion. Overdressing (cocktail or party dresses) is as inappropriate as underdressing (jeans, t-shirts, tennis shoes).
Punctuality
Arriving for the interview check-in on time is very important. Plan to arrive 30 minutes early in order to prevent tardiness. Interviewees should allow time for the unexpected (e.g., inclement weather or heavy traffic). In the event of an unavoidable delay, call the Student Affairs Office (512-471-1737) at the first opportunity.
Honesty
Interviewees should not try to “second guess” 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.