If you don’t like interviews, you’re not alone. Most people don’t love them, but with a few helpful tips they don’t have to be as stressful as you might think.
Not every course requires an interview, but often competitive or creative courses might. So here are my top tips on how to nail university interviews.
#1 – Prepare
This means reading up – what interview is the course for? What are they looking for in an applicant? You don’t have to know everything – if you did, there wouldn’t be much point in doing a degree, but think about everything you’ve done in life so far and how that’s prepared you for the course you’re applying to.
#2 – Plan, Plan, Plan
This is key to making sure you feel as at ease as possible on the big day. Find out where your interview is, and when. Plan how you’re going to get there, and if it’s by public transport remember to get the bus/train before the one that you actually need to. This way if anything does go wrong, you’re still going to be in plenty of time, but make sure you have a contact number for the university just in case you’re running late for any reason – it’s better to let them know than just not turn up or arrive late with no warning.
#3 – What to wear?
Dress appropriately for your course, if you’re applying for a course where you’re going to be expected to demonstrate practical abilities it might not be wise to turn up in a suit or heels. Dress smart enough to show you’re taking this seriously, but remember to stay appropriate to what you might reasonably be expected to do.
#4 – 1-to-1 Interviews
Turn up early, it’ll make a good impression, and you won’t be stressed that you’re not going to make it. Listen, take your time and don’t be afraid to ask them to a repeat a question if you don’t understand. Universities aren’t trying to catch you out here, and they’re genuinely interested in what you have to say, after all they’re considering offering you a place to study with them.
#5 – Group Interviews
If you’re in a group interview the chances are this is deliberate and they’re interested in how well you work with others, don’t be shy as everyone there is in the same position as you, just be polite and open to others and you’ll get on just fine.
So there you have it, interviews don’t have to be scary at all, really its just about being prepared, planning ahead and making the right impression. Don’t forget interviews are an opportunity for you to ask any questions you need to as well so don’t be shy & good luck!
– Josh
