An interview for Physician Assistant (PA) school is a significant step toward a career in medicine. Your professional appearance plays a substantial part in the initial impression you make on the admissions committee. The attire you choose communicates your respect for the program and the profession you aim to join. Presenting a polished image helps ensure the focus remains on your qualifications and potential as a future healthcare provider.
Understanding the Professional Standard
The PA school interview demands a high level of formality, exceeding many other professional environments. Applicants should wear traditional, conservative business professional attire to demonstrate seriousness about the opportunity. A full, matched suit is the expected baseline for all applicants. The medical and academic communities value a classic look that conveys trustworthiness and maturity. Clothing must be well-maintained, clean, and pressed, reflecting the attention to detail sought after in healthcare.
Choosing the Core Wardrobe
Suits, Jackets, and Trousers/Skirts
A full suit in a dark, neutral color is the required foundation for your interview ensemble. Candidates should select colors like navy, charcoal gray, or black, as these convey professionalism and authority. Opt for materials such as a wool blend or synthetic fabric that resists wrinkling, ensuring a crisp appearance. The fit of the suit must be conservative, meaning it should not be excessively tight or overly baggy. A proper tailoring consultation is beneficial to achieve a precise fit.
For a trouser suit, the pants should have a professional drape and break appropriately over the shoe. If choosing a skirt suit, the skirt should fall at or just below the knee, maintaining modesty when seated. The jacket must always remain on throughout the interview day to uphold the business professional standard. A classic, conservative cut ensures a polished presentation that will not distract from your conversation.
Shirts, Blouses, and Ties
The shirt or blouse worn beneath the suit jacket should be solid and wrinkle-free. The most professional color choices are solid white or light blue. Blouses must have a conservative neckline and should not be sheer or reveal excessive skin.
Applicants who wear ties should choose a conservative pattern, such as subtle stripes or small geometric shapes, or opt for a solid color that complements the suit. The tie should be silk or a similar material, and the knot should be neat, such as a four-in-hand or a half-Windsor. Avoid novelty ties or those with loud colors. Ensure the tie length is appropriate, ending near the belt buckle.
Footwear and Hosiery
Footwear must be professional, polished, and comfortable enough for standing or navigating campus. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Appropriate styles include leather loafers, oxfords, or modest pumps with a low heel. The shoe color should coordinate with the suit, typically black for black or charcoal suits, and black or dark brown for navy suits.
Leather or synthetic footwear should be clean and well-polished, free of scuffs. Hosiery is required when wearing a skirt or dress, and it should be a neutral or dark shade matching your skin tone or the suit color. Dress socks for trouser-wearers must be dark, conservative, and long enough to cover the leg when seated.
Grooming, Accessories, and Personal Presentation
Completing the professional look requires attention to personal presentation elements. Hair should be neatly styled and kept away from the face. Clean, trimmed nails with clear or neutral-toned polish are appropriate, demonstrating attention to hygiene.
Jewelry should be minimal and non-distracting, limited to a simple watch and stud earrings. Avoid anything large or noisy. Makeup should be applied naturally and lightly. Avoid all fragrances, including cologne, perfume, and strongly scented lotions, due to potential sensitivities. A simple, structured portfolio or briefcase is the best option for carrying necessary documents, replacing large, casual bags or backpacks.
Common Attire Mistakes to Avoid
A polished appearance can be undermined by common missteps that signal a lack of professional awareness. One frequent mistake is wearing clothing that fits poorly, such as a jacket that is too tight or trousers that are too long. Clothes that are wrinkled, stained, or have hanging threads immediately detract from the ensemble.
Avoid trendy fashion items, which can appear too casual or distracting for this formal setting. This includes loud patterns, bright colors, and excessive use of accessories or jewelry that jingle or reflect light. Exposed tattoos should be covered. Visible piercings, other than simple ear studs, should be removed for the interview duration. Carrying a large, informal tote or backpack instead of a professional folio is a visual misstep.
Final Logistical Checks
Thorough preparation involves simple logistical steps to ensure the outfit is ready. Try on the entire outfit several days before the interview to confirm the fit is comfortable and allows for easy movement. This also confirms that shoes are broken in and will not cause discomfort.
The full ensemble should be cleaned and pressed, with the suit jacket and trousers or skirt carefully hung to prevent wrinkles. Consider packing a small emergency kit containing a stain-remover pen, a safety pin, and backup hosiery for minor mishaps. Checking the weather forecast and planning for appropriate outerwear, such as a professional trench coat, ensures you arrive dry.