Students

Interview

Congrats! You got the interview, now here’s what to do

Fellowships and research proposals may require a written proposal

Prepare.

  • Familiarize yourself with the details of the position you’re applying for.
  • Make sure that you are up-to-date on current events and issues.
  • Think of questions that the interviewing panel may ask about you, your future goals, and how your values reflect the organization’s own philosophy.
  • Identify your weaknesses and strengths. Turn weaknesses into attributes that can be beneficial in the position, like being overly detail-oriented.

Practice.

  • Set up mock interviews. Use Interview Stream, which can be found by logging into Symplicity on the Career Center website. A program designed for mock interviews, it will help you practice and improve your interviewing skills.

Be professional.

  • On the day of the interview, arrive early. To calm your nerves, walk around outside. Don’t busy your mind with facts and statements you’ve prepared; now is the time to clear your mind.
  • Wear professional attire, like a suit and tie for men, and a skirt and jacket for women. Be conservative with makeup and jewelry. Do not wear anything distracting, like overwhelming patterns or lip piercings. Do not wear cologne.

Make an impression.

  • Make eye contact and shake hands with the members of the interview panel.
  • Speak clearly and confidently, but not arrogantly. Show that you are intelligent, but that you have more to learn.
  • Show your individuality and be yourself! You want to stand out from the other candidates.
  • If a question is confusing, do not be afraid to ask the interviewer to restate it. It is better than just guessing or saying that you do not know.

Act interested.

  • Walk tall and sit up straight. React to what the interviewers say and be involved, not nervous. Take a few moments to breathe deeply.
  • If they ask you if you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask several. You will appear enthusiastic about the position.
  • Show that you have researched their organization. Ask specific questions about it or the position.

What now? Feel proud and unwind.

  • Do not dwell on what you could have said differently or what you should not have done. Remind yourself that you were prepared and did your best!
  • Don’t stress about your submitted application or interview. It is time to breathe!
  • You can keep in mind the date when you should receive a response, but don’t obsess or count down the days. Relax!