Tips for acing a university interview?

I have my first university interview coming up and I'm a bit nervous. What are some key things I should do during the interview to make a good impression? Any particular questions I should be prepared to answer?

Interviews are a great opportunity to show more of your personality and interests to the university in a way that might not come across in your application. Here are some strategic keys to make a good impression:

1. Research the University: Knowing specific details about the university (its culture, strengths, programs, etc.), and tying this in with your personal goals, will definitely impress your interviewer and show your genuine interest in the school.

2. Practice Common Interview Questions: Some common questions may include: "Why are you interested in our university?", "What can you contribute to our university?", "What are your strengths and weaknesses?", "Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it." Be ready with crisp, thoughtful answers.

3. Show Enthusiasm: Passion for your field of study or extracurricular interests can really make you stand out. The interviewers tend to remember candidates who speak with genuine enthusiasm.

4. Ask Questions: Having intelligent questions to ask can show your interest and preparation. They may be about a specific program you're interested in, university culture, opportunities for research or internships, etc.

5. Be Yourself: Authenticity is key. Don't try to mold yourself into the candidate you think they want. Remember that interviews are as much for you to learn about the school as they are for them to learn about you.

Lastly, remember to dress appropriately, be punctual, and follow all guidelines shared with you for the interview process. This will display your respect for the interviewer and the process. Good luck!