How to prepare for a nursing university interview?

I've applied to a nursing program and I have an interview coming up. What kind of questions should I expect? Any tips on how to stand out during the interview would be super helpful!

Congrats on securing an interview for the nursing program! The interview stage is primarily your chance to display your passion for nursing and to emphasize your interpersonal skills, which are vital in this field.

To prepare, be ready for both traditional questions and behavioral questions. Traditional questions will give you the opportunity to discuss your qualifications and why you chose nursing. Questions may include prompts like "Tell us about yourself" or "Why did you choose to pursue nursing?" This is the time to discuss specific experiences that outline your path to the nursing field and your understanding of the rigors and rewards of the profession.

Additionally, you can expect behavioral questions that are meant to gauge your suitability for dealing with situations you might encounter as a nurse. These can range from "Tell us about a time you resolved a conflict with a teammate" to "How would you deal with a family member who's unhappy with the care their loved one is receiving?" Really showcase your communication skills, emotional resilience, and problem-solving in these responses.

As for standing out, remember this: the interview is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Show genuine interest, commitment to the field, and compassion. Relate your answers to specific personal experiences where applicable. For example, instead of saying, "I like helping people," you might want to narrate a time when you volunteered at a local hospital, discussing what you learned and the impact it had on your decision to pursue nursing.

Finally, take your time when providing responses, maintain good eye contact, and remember that it's okay to pause briefly to gather your thoughts. Good luck in your upcoming interview!