Preparing for your college Interview

When you’re offered an interview at College, you may feel nervous before the interview. Doing some preparation beforehand will help you increase your confidence. Always remember the purpose of the interview is for the interviewer to learn about you, and for you to find out about the College.

Get yourself organised

  • Make sure you know where Borders College is, which campus your interview will be in and how long it will take you to get there.
  • Prepare your portfolio of work, exam certificates, record of achievements etc. ready to take with you.
  • Check the course information and read through your personal statement. Think about what questions an interviewer might ask and come up with some replies.
  • Think about what questions you would like to ask about the course.
  • Selling yourself rarely comes naturally but is a critical skill that needs developing over time. Use every opportunity you can to build these skills, get parents and friends to ask you interview questions.
  • Contact us beforehand if you require any additional support at your interview. Telephone 01896 662516.
  • Try and ensure you get enough rest so you are fresh and alert on the day.
     

On the day

Be on time. Set off in plenty of time, to arrive at least 10 minutes before the interview time. This gives you time before the interview to gather your thoughts and freshen up and gives you a little extra time for any unforeseen minor delays on the way.

  • If you are going to be late or can’t make your interview call the College - Tel: 01896 662516 – they will appreciate it!
  • Make sure you’re smart, clean and tidy. Looking smart shows you have made an effort to give a good impression.
  • Put forward a positive image.
     

Always Remember

You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression!
 

At the Interview

  • Always treat your interviewer with courtesy and manners. Make eye contact, it shows you’re listening. If more than one person is interviewing you, make sure you are looking at the person asking that question. Don’t fidget or slouch.
  • The Interviewer will want you to talk about yourself, your career ideas, your interests and hobbies, what you are doing currently e.g. school subjects, current employment, past employment or work experience.
  • Listen to the interview questions carefully. If you don’t understand a question, ask for it to be repeated. Try to avoid yes and no answers – give as much information as you can.
  • Act naturally, don’t exaggerate, answer questions honestly and frankly, but do make sure the interviewer is aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
  • At the end of the interview thank the interviewer for their time.
     

Sell yourself at the interview

Finally, don’t worry about being nervous. It’s only natural, and the interviewer will expect it.
 

Further Help and Guidance

For further help and guidance, please contact: Student Advice Centre on 01896 662516 or email: enquiries@borderscollege.ac.uk.