10 ways to make the best impression at your college telephone interview
Be prepared to look and sound as good as you are
How often do you find yourself talking about your aspirations and dreams to friends and family? It is not always easy to express them and being questioned about yourself can be quite nerve-racking and leave you stumped on how to answer.
College interviews, whether face-to face, over the phone or via video, are not about catching you out or making you question your ambitions. They are focused around what you would like to study, why you chose this career path and more importantly guiding you to the right course to help you achieve your goals.
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1. Be confident in your dreams
Even if you do not have all the relevant grades to start at the highest level, try to remember that there are many levels available and you need to start at the level that’s right for you. There are also different courses that can still lead you closer to your career goal and it’s good to keep an open mind and explore all of your options. Go in with a ‘can do’ attitude and stay positive.
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2. Do your research
You are likely to be asked why you chose certain subjects and how much you know about it. Do your research, by reading college prospectuses or going online and checking websites. Check the topics and content: is this something that interests you? Would you like to study it further? Make sure you have reasons for why this particular course interests you and how it relates to your career plans.
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3. Be on time for your interview
Being on time for your telephone, video or face-to-face interview shows you are organised and have planned ahead. Interviewers will be impressed by your mature approach to your future studies.
4. Show your passion and enthusiasm for the subjects
Be enthusiastic about your choices. This will show you are passionate and interested in learning. It will also show that you are a keen and motivated individual.
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5. Talk about your wider interests
This is something worth mentioning. If you are involved in other activities, clubs or societies outside of your studies, it can show that you are active, have a strong skill-set and willing to learn new things.
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6. Highlight your strengths
This is the perfect opportunity to highlight your strengths and talents. Talk about your skills, whether practical or academic. It could be staying organised or being athletic, whatever it may be, it shows what you are particularly good at and can be proud of.
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7. Talk about someone who inspired you
You can talk about someone who has inspired you, whether this is a family member, relative or professional. It shows you are taking notice of the world around you and starting to make mature decisions based on what inspires you.
8. Mention your long term career plans
There is no wrong answer here. Talking about your future is a way to show you are a forward-thinking person. The interviewer is there to listen and support you in making sound decisions.
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9. Ask questions
Ask questions, whether about the course content, career opportunities, trips or work experience as it will show you are inquisitive and serious about your future.
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10. Be yourself
Being your true self is a reflection of confidence and self-awareness. It means you are genuine and not trying to be someone you are not. Being honest also allows your advisor to guide you thoughtfully, in line with that you truly wish to study and help you select the right course.
8 most common interview questions
1. What’s your ambition and career goal?
2. Why do you want to study this course?
3. How much do you know about the course content?
4. What is your greatest achievement?
5. What do you do in your spare time?
6. What are your main strengths?
7. How would you describe yourself?
8. Why would you be a good candidate for this College?
What if I am unsure about my course choices?
If you are unsure then an interview is a good chance for you to ask questions and to find out more about the courses you have selected. It will help you decide if they are the right courses for you. If not, you can always explore alternative options that will help you progress onto your degree, apprenticeship or career choice.
You can also do further research after an interview before making course decisions, however you will need to keep a note of college application deadlines and ensure you apply on time. Speak to more college advisors and if you haven’t attended Open Days, try to visit as many as possible to discover all your options.
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