Advice for Cambridge University Interviews?

I have a Cambridge interview coming up and I'm nervous! Any general advice on how to present myself, handle tricky questions, or make a good impression during the interview?

Cambridge interviews are designed to assess students' aptitude for their chosen subject, so the majority of the interview will typically revolve around academic discussion. Here are some tips:

1. Demonstrate Passion for Your Subject: Make sure to showcase your genuine love and enthusiasm for the chosen field. This could include discussing books, articles, or projects you've engaged with recently in that area.

2. Think Out Loud: The interviewers want to understand your thought process, so when you're dealing with a particularly tricky question, let them see how you arrive at the answer. Describe your thought process as you work through challenging questions.

3. Prepare for Subject-Specific Questions: Questions will often be closely tied to the subject you've applied to study. Be ready to profoundly discuss the topics in your personal statement or relate to the key areas of the course you've applied for.

4. Know the College and Course: Understand the unique aspects of the college and course you've applied to. You don't need to know everything, but understanding why you've chosen the course and the research strengths of the college you've applied to could be beneficial.

5. Remain Calm and Think Before You Answer: It's easy to feel pressured into responding quickly, but take your time to form a thoughtful response.

6. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Clarification: If you don't understand a question, it's perfectly okay to ask for clarification. They can certainly rephrase or explain the question further to aid your understanding.

7. Be Ready for Hypothetical or Abstract Questions: This is especially true for some subjects. The aim is not necessarily to arrive at a 'correct' answer but to demonstrate your analytical thinking and creativity.

8. Practice: Do mock interviews with teachers or mentors, focusing especially on discussing your thoughts out loud.

Remember, an interview is a two-way street. While they are assessing you, it's also your chance to get a sense of the atmosphere at the college and whether it's the right fit for you. Good Luck!