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What's appropriate to wear for a university interview?

I'm prepping for a few university interviews and stressing about what to wear. Is it okay to keep it casual or should I stick to something formal? Any tips or advice would really help me out!

3 months ago

An interview for a university is a crucial moment to make a great impression. It's always better to err on the side of dressing a bit more formally. Think of it more as a job interview rather than a casual chat.

For men, a nice button-down shirt with khakis or dress pants would be appropriate. A tie isn't necessary but can add a nice touch. Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.

For women, a blouse or a conservative dress, combined with a nice pair of pants or a skirt, is also suitable. Avoid anything too revealing, with excessive patterns, or with distracting colors.

In both cases, select comfortable shoes that are also formal and clean. A pair of loafers or clean sneakers can work for men while women can opt for flats or low heels. Avoid wearing athletic sneakers.

Remember that your appearance should not be the most memorable thing about you. Your outfit should make you look professional and put-together, but without drawing undue attention. That way, the focus is on what you have to say and not what you're wearing.

Also, consider the climate and weather of the place where you're interviewing -- if it's going to be cold, you might want to bring a nice jacket or coat.

Lastly, with the move towards digital interviews given current world circumstances, even if your interview is virtual, you should still dress as if it's in-person. Dressing formally will put you in the right frame of mind and show the interviewers that you are taking the interview seriously. Just ensure your chosen outfit looks good on camera (avoid clothing with small patterns which can create a distracting visual effect on video).

Good luck with your interviews!

3 months ago

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