Congratulations! You’ve made it to a crucial milestone in your academic journey — the university interview. It’s an exciting chance to show off your skills, enthusiasm, and why you’re the perfect fit for your dream course.
But let’s face it: university interviews can be nerve-wracking if you’re not fully prepared. So, we’re here to change that. Get ready to ace your interview with these three foolproof interview preparation strategies.
Table of Contents
1. Know your stuff
During your interview, it’s highly likely that your personal statement will take centre stage, becoming a focal point of discussion. That’s why it’s crucial to be well-versed in its contents as you prepare for your interview. Make sure to carve out time to re-read your talking points multiple times until you have a solid grasp of its content. By doing so, you’ll be able to effortlessly recall and expand upon the points you made in your statement.
In addition to revisiting your own written work, it’s essential to update your knowledge of your chosen subject. Are there any recent discoveries or developments in your field? Have any significant academic papers been published that are relevant to your course? Stay up to date with current research and advancements in your area of study, as this demonstrates your enthusiasm and engagement with the subject matter.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the task of preparing for your interview, don’t worry — there is lots of help and support out there. UniAdmissions, for example, offers a range of tailored interview support programmes “based on your specific subject, university and personal circumstances to craft a strong interview strategy.”
2. Hone your technique
Mastering the art of interviewing is a crucial skill, and it holds even more significance when it comes to securing a spot at your dream university. For many of you aspiring students, your entry interview may be your very first encounter with this daunting process. That’s why it’s essential to gain as much experience as possible to minimise stress and increase your chances of success.
One valuable approach to prepare is engaging in conversations with your teachers, friends, or family members using suggested interview questions. These discussions provide a relaxed setting for you to practise speaking, while also helping you adapt your communication style and become more flexible in expressing your thoughts.
Another effective technique is to record yourself while speaking. It may seem a bit unusual, but trust us, it works wonders. By listening to the recordings afterward, you can identify areas for improvement such as pronunciation, speaking speed, or vocabulary choices. This self-reflection allows you to fine-tune your speaking skills and enhance your overall delivery.
3. Plan ahead
When you receive your interview invitation, the first thing you should do is plan your journey. Trust us — you don’t want to wake up on the morning of your interview with no clue about how to get there or how long it will take.
If your interview is in another city, make sure to book your train or bus tickets right away. It’s not only one less thing to worry about, but you’ll also save money by booking in advance. And if you’ll be staying overnight, be sure to book a hotel or make arrangements to stay with a friend.
Instead of just aiming to arrive “on time,” select a departure that will get you to your destination approximately an hour before your interview. This buffer time allows for any unexpected delays that might occur along the way, giving you peace of mind in the knowledge that you have a margin of error.
Moreover, arriving early provides you with the opportunity to relax, gather your thoughts, and engage in some last-minute preparation. You can enjoy a cup of coffee, review your notes, or mentally rehearse your responses, ensuring you’re in the right mindset before stepping into the interview. Good luck!
