Insights on University Interviews and Making a Good Impression

I'm going to have an interview at a few universities soon, and I want to make the best impression I can. Any general advice on what to expect and how to prepare to stand out during these interviews?

First, congratulations on progressing to the interview stage. Interviews can be an excellent opportunity for you to show your genuine interest in a university and share more about yourself beyond your written application.

Preparation is key when it comes to interviews. It's helpful to do some research about the school and the specific program you applied to. Understand the school's mission, values, and unique aspects so you can link these to your personal interests, experiences, and future goals. This shows that you are serious about your application and the school is a good fit for you.

Practice common interview questions that relate to your motivations for applying, your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and your personal strengths and weaknesses. You could also be asked to discuss a current event or a book you've recently read. It's not about having a rehearsed answer for each question, but about feeling comfortable talking about these topics.

Here are a couple of specific recommendations:

1. Share Personal Stories: When answering questions, provide concrete examples. If asked about your leadership skills, don't just say you have great leadership skills; share a story about a time when you displayed these skills.

2. Practice Active Listening: This means paying close attention to what the interviewer is saying and responding thoughtfully. It's okay to take a pause before answering to gather your thoughts.

3. Be Professional: Treat the interview as you would a job interview. Dress appropriately, arrive on time (or log on early if it's a virtual interview), and remember to take turns speaking.

4. Ask Questions: Interviews are not just for the college to learn about you, but also an opportunity for you to learn more about the college. Prepare a few insightful questions to ask the interviewer about their experiences or about the school/program.

5. Follow-up: Send a thank-you email after the interview. This isn't just polite - it's another chance to express your interest in the university.

Remember, interviews are about personality as much as they are about qualifications. The interviewer is trying to get a sense of who you are as a person and if you would fit into their community. So, let your genuine enthusiasm show and try to relax.

Good luck with your university interviews!