Incorporating multiple mini-interviews in the postgraduate year 1 pharmacy residency program selection process

Abstract

The incorporation of the multiple mini-interview (MMI) into the postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy residency program selection process was evaluated. Four MMI stations evaluating the highest-rated nonacademic attributes of prospective residents (critical thinking, teamwork, ethical reasoning and integrity, and communication and interpersonal skills) were incorporated into the traditional PGY1 residency interview process at an academic medical center. After completion of the interview, candidates and interviewers were surveyed regarding their perceptions of the refined interview process. Data regarding scores on various components of the applicant profile were also compared for significant correlations. Descriptive statistics were calculated for questionnaire responses and individual components of candidate profiles. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated between MMI score, traditional interview score, age, grade point average, application score, college of pharmacy rank, and final candidate rank (subjective score). A total of 38 candidates were interviewed, 37 of whom completed the postinterview survey. Candidates agreed that the MMI allowed them to convey their abilities effectively; however, they disagreed that it was more effective than traditional interviews. Candidates did not agree that the MMI caused less anxiety than traditional interviews. All 15 interviewers completed the postinterview survey and believed that the MMI effectively evaluated soft skills and that the MMI was more effective than traditional interviews in assessing candidates' abilities, skills, and thought processes. The use of the MMI in a PGY1 pharmacy residency applicant selection process appeared to be well accepted by both candidates and interviewers and likely assesses different attributes than do traditional interview techniques.