The Interview Process

Preparing for the Interview

• Don't forget that "practice makes perfect." Although you cannot practice your exact answers since you won't know the questions ahead of time, you can still practice with sample questions. This will make you feel more comfortable and confident when answering impromptu questions. Ease and confidence are things that will impress the panelists. 
• Make sure you understand the background and the specific purposes of the fellowship or scholarship for which you are applying. 
• Make a list of character traits you want to project and any specific ideas you want to address.
• Review your application. Questions will most likely come from the information you have provided, and the panel will want to ask you about your achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service.
• Know your personal statement and/or policy proposal inside and out. Be prepared to talk about anything related to your focus.
• Be up to date on current events. You may be asked to address such issues as the war on terrorism, cloning, biological warfare, global warming, economic crisis and others.
• Ask your advisor to help you brainstorm possible questions so that you can practice answering. Even if the questions aren't the same, it will give you experience in answering on-the-spot questions. Contact people who have been through similar interviews to find out some of the things panelists expect from their candidates. Also, ask for things they did or wish they would have done during the interview.

During the Interview

• Don't be intimidated by the panelists. They will be intelligent, successful, and usually very nice. Be confident in sharing your ideas; respectful differences of opinion are expected and even welcomed. Debates are all right, but arguments are not—beware of the difference between the two.
• Don't forget that your time is limited. Make sure you say everything you want to say in the allotted time frame.
• Think before you speak. When asked a question that you're not sure about, don't be afraid to admit that you don't know. Do NOT fake answers. Also, ask for clarification if necessary. It's better to know what it is they are asking, then to try to guess.
• Don't over-address a topic. If there is a topic that you are particularly strong in, ask the committee if they want you to go into it in more detail.
• Expect the unexpected. Thinking on your feet is going to be a necessity. There will be questions that you won't be prepared for. If you think you've made a fool of yourself, just relax and remember the questions you answered well. (f) Be honest; be confident; be yourself.

After the Interview 

It will be over before you know it. Forgive yourself for not saying something you think you should have said. Move on and realize no matter what happens the sun will come up tomorrow.