Autumn, a Season of Interviews

My friend was grinning from ear to ear, ‘I’ve got an interview this Thursday! The university said that they’d send someone from the UK to meet me and I’m so excited!’ Overjoyed, I patted him on his back and congratulated him. I was really excited too. This means that I might be getting my interview in no time as well!
Indeed. Autumn is a season of interviews. Everyone at school is discussing this. People are sharing interview skills, exchanging interview experiences, and even trying to create a list of interview do-and-don’ts. ‘Casual attire is definitely a no-no.’ ‘Speak with confidence.’ ‘Make eye-contact with the interviewer.’

Interview preparation is vital. It is very important to be always completely prepared. As a Chinese proverb goes, “Opportunities are only for the prepared minds.” In high spirits, I sat on my bed and pondered what I can do to prepare for my upcoming interview.

Read the prospectus, that’s a must. Prepare answers for common questions, of course. Practice in front of a mirror? That might work as well. I’ve even been googling ‘university interview skills’ and asking my friends who’ve been to university interviews for advice. Here is a list of do-and-don’ts I’ve summarized from all the research I’ve done:

Before the interview:

DO read the prospectus and find out recent news and information about the university

DO prepare and print out a copy of your CV

DO think of a brief introduction of yourself and make a list of your skills and abilities

DO ask your parents, teachers and friends for advice

DO check the Internet for interview tips and experience sharing

DO find out in what form the interview is going to be

DO go on a pre-trip to the venue

DON'T lack preparation or seriousness

DON'T sleep late on the interview day

On the day:

DO bring a copy of your CV

DO arrive at least 15 minutes early

DO make eye-contact with the interviewer(s)

DO look confident (even if you are not) and be enthusiastic

DO give full and elaborated answers

DO ask questions to show your interest in the subject and the university

DO turn off your mobile phone

DON'T be late!
DON'T be distracted by anything. Stay focused at all times
DON'T panic. Just try to be yourself and relax
DON'T try to bluff any questions


Glancing through the list I’ve created, I somehow feel more secure and have some sense of self-fulfillment. I truly hope that the above list is going to further equip me well for my upcoming interview, and hopefully for yours too!