Ideas to Keep in Mind During Your On-Campus Interview

I have been told on numerous occasions that the interview begins as soon as you are picked up from the airport or when you meet the first person from the institution you are interviewing with. As I have mentioned before:

• It is in your best interest to be yourself.
  
• Recognize that you are being evaluated almost immediately.
  
• Stay positive with your conversational topics.
  
• Continue to show your enthusiasm for the institution.
  
• Perhaps you can ask yourself how you would like to be remembered from your on-campus interview.

During various meals, ensure that you are thinking about your eating etiquette. Do not talk with your mouth full, take small bites, and keep your elbows off the table are just a few examples. It is not uncommon that you will be interviewed over a meal by a direct supervisor, Director of the program, or students. You do not want your eating behavior to distract those that you are sharing a meal with. This is a great time to get to know their career paths and interests, as this will be more of a conversation rather than a formal interview.

I cannot stress enough the importance of having a few questions for each of your interviews throughout the day. Having questions demonstrates that you have spent some time researching the institution and department, as well as have a real interest in working at the institution. You will more than likely have a portfolio with you, so be sure to write down your questions prior to the on-campus interview. Once it is your cue to ask your questions, you can take notes directly on the sheet of paper with your questions. Helpful items to take note of are the peoples’ names that are interviewing you, and indicate which person is responding to your question. This information will be helpful when you write your thank you’s and want to bring in a personal aspect of a comment or interest they discussed during the interview.

Take each break that is offered to you. Even if you do not need to use the restroom, take a few moments to step away. You can refocus and re-energize in these short moments. Check to see that you do not need to adjust your collar, tie, or suit. Ensure you have nothing in your teeth, and have a breath mint. Knowing how you are presenting yourself will help you to feel more confident and comfortable as you continue with your interviews.

Finally, enjoy yourself! The interviews can be intense, but take the time to envision yourself being at this institution. What do you like about the environment and your potential future colleagues. This is really a time to get to know a new place and culture. Are there any red flags for your? As you go throughout the day start asking yourself if this is a place you think would be a good fit for you, your values, and lifestyle. Ask yourself overall, “how did this experience make me feel?”

Amy Moreno-Kieffer
Co-Editor
Student Affairs Job Hunting Blog