In some American colleges and universities, an interview is the next step in admission, after filling out an application. And if you received an invitation to an interview, then this is the time to prepare for it, and not blindly rejoice or, on the contrary, get scared. What are the opening interviews?
Alumni interview
A number of American universities use Alumni interview – conducted by a graduate of the institution where you are entering. Usually such interviews take place in a friendly conversation format. However, do not forget that you are still appreciated!
Admission officer interview
Admission officer interview – takes place directly with the representative of the selection committee. There is a slightly more formal previous one, but the form of the conversation predominates anyway than the question-answer.
Automatic interview
Automatic interview – involves obtaining a link to a special platform where you yourself on a video record the answers to questions that appear on the screen. Often there are time limits for response, and therefore Your long monologue simply will not be recorded.
On-campus interview
Some universities can invite you to their place to conduct an On-campus interview – this is a unique opportunity to see the campus and make a good impression on the admissions office.
All these interviews are quite different, but the main thing that unites them is the university’s desire to know you a little more. Do not protest, do not experience, namely to get to know each other. So here are our top 5 tips on how to get through this interview:
Be yourself. The worst thing you can do during an interview is to try to look better than you really are. This is very visible to the experienced eye of the interviewer and will not bring you anything good. In addition, even if by some miracle you manage to “deceive everyone”, then upon arrival to the campus it will become clear to you yourself that this is not an ideal place for your training.
Answer the questions that they pose. Do not invent and do not try to foresee which question will be next. Answer as clearly as possible to the question that is being asked to you, and if you do not know the answer, it is better to honestly say so. If you have not heard or understood the question – this is not a problem, ask what exactly the interviewer had in mind. If you do not do this and begin to answer a completely different question, then this will look at least strange.
Give full answers. Remember that an interview is just an acquaintance. Therefore, if you are asked, for example, did you take part in any volunteer projects, do not limit yourself to the answer “yes” or “no”. Tell me more about 1-2, which you consider your most valuable experience.
Watch your appearance. Even if the interview takes place online and you sit at home, you should not connect to Skype in your favorite pajamas with bunny ears against the backdrop of “creative mess.” The first impression is formed within 3 seconds from the beginning of the conversation, so the picture that the interviewer first sees will affect the further course of the conversation. Of course, no one expects to see a tuxedo or evening dress. Just clean up the mess in the background and put on professional clothes.
Stay calm. An interview is just one of the stages of selection. The usual conversation is getting to know the person on the other side of the screen. So try to relax and just do the maximum. Interviewers understand that hassle is normal for applicants, but the less nervous you are, the better you look against other candidates.
EducationUSA Advisers in Kazakhstan can help prepare for the interview. We advise applicants on expected questions, training strategies, and conduct test interviews so that you can train and have the opportunity to work on mistakes. If you are interested in assistance in preparing for an interview, sign up for an individual consultation with an EducationUSA adviser.
