Interviews can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. But, if you’re well prepared and feel confident in yourself, then you’ll do great!
Tell us a bit about yourself!
Tell us about your greatest strength/weaknesses!
Tell me about your leadership experience.
Here are a few tips for ace-ing interviews according to situations:
University & College Interviews
Prepare answers for common questions. Most universities will want to know your answers to, "Why do you want to study the subject?" and, "Why do you want to go to this university?". Have your responses to these questions polished and memorised.
Be able to describe why you might be a good first for the institution. Interviewers want to ensure that you’re a good candidate both on paper and in person, so consider things you’ve done that show character.
Know about the institution that you’re applying to. It’s important to highlight a particular attribute you like about the institution/course. This can be in terms of facilities offered or events held annually. Having a good general knowledge base that shows the interviewer that you are sincerely interested and have done your homework!
Bring a copy of your academic resume! You might be asked to bring a portfolio of your work, especially if you are applying for a creative arts course. Make sure you remember to bring it as much (including a variety) of your interview will be focused on this work. For example, if you’re planning to apply to an art course, bring in the different types of artworks you have done - painted, sculpture work etc.
Scholarships Interviews
Be able to tell the interviewer why you deserve the scholarship.
Make sure you link your accomplishments to the scholarship’s mission statement!
Know you application essay well!
If there’s a presentation, prepare well & practise, practise, practise!
Arrive at least 15 Minutes Earlier! Make sure you know where you are going and have contact details so you can call them if there is a problem. This will avoid adding any unnecessary stress.
Dress smartly and comfortably.
Come prepared with a list of questions about the course/university/employer! This shows you were planning ahead. Prepare at least four beforehand, and feel free to add to those based on what you learn in the interview. For example:
What do you wish people in my shoes knew about attending this institution?
Do you have any advice for me as I prepare for college?
