Development and implementation of the multiple mini-interview in pharmacy admissions

ObjectivesTo describe the development and implementation of a pharmacy admissions multiple mini-interview (MMI).MethodsMMI scenario scoring, applicant and interviewer perception surveys, retrospective video scoring, and applicant admission demographics were collected during a pilot phase and full implementation phase to assess the effectiveness of this type of interviewing technique. Inter-rater reliability was assessed during the pilot phase. MMI scores were compared to determine variance between scenarios and to assess scenario performance during full implementation.ResultsDuring the pilot phase, a significant degree of inter-rater reliability was found for all the themes evaluated, except the personal attribute scenario. Performance on three scenarios by 224 applicants during the full implementation phase demonstrated good results (mean ± SD): rapport/empathy (5.4 ± 1.4), ethics/professionalism (5.9 ± 1.1), and personal attribute (5.6 ± 1.1). The MMI was feasible and costs were managed with an applicant fee.ConclusionsThe MMI was well accepted and assessed non-cognitive skills across applicants in a reliable fashion. It is anticipated that with greater experience with this interview methodology, the value of the interview in the applicant selection process will increase.