Strengths and weaknesses for physical therapy interview

So you’ve received an interview invite for PT school…congratulations! Now it is time to prepare for the interview. Duke didn’t require interviews when I applied (and that is the only program I applied to as I applied early decision), so I searched and gathered what I personally think the 10 most common interview questions are (in no specific order):

1. What are your strengths/weaknesses?

Be sure to state context, and be honest! Honestly sometimes your strengths are also weaknesses, and vice versa. When you mention your weaknesses, remember to mention how you are “working on” this weakness to better yourself.

2. What made you choose physical therapy over other health professions?

Think of something outside of “I want to help people”. There are many other professions where you get to help people (especially in the medical field). Really dig deep and figure out why you chose physical therapy.

3. Describe a time where you have failed?

But also remember to discuss what you’ve learned from this experience and how it has improved your character in some way.

4. What made you apply to this program?

Was it their location? Their curriculum? Their faculty? Applying to PT school is expensive, so what made this program stick out to you.

 5. How do you deal with stress?

This question is important as admissions committees want to gauge how you will deal with the stress and load of PT school. They want to make sure you have healthy strategies to get through the program.

6. What aspects of your life/experiences do you think make you a good candidate for physical therapy school?

Your journey has been molding you to be a great PT…show them that!

7. Tell me about a mistake you have made, and what you have learned from it.

This is similar to the failure question.

8. Tell me about yourself.

Of course, every interviewer asks this question. Maybe try asking a family member or friend how they would describe you and go from there when thinking of how you want to answer this.

9. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Personally and professionally.

10. Do you have any questions for us?

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AT LEAST ONE QUESTION TO ASK; it shouldn’t be a question that can be easily answered from their website though! You could even ask something you already know the answer to, this just shows your genuine interest in the program.

I hope these example questions are helpful! It would be a good idea to brainstorm possible responses to these questions so that you are fully prepared when your interview rolls around. If you have the time, try having a “mock” interview with someone you trust. Then you can practice, and receive constructive feedback. My biggest piece of advice when interviewing is to be YOURSELF. Let your personality shine during your interview, and the right program will love you. Good luck, you’ll kill it!