Hi guys,
I’m a senior in northern Virginia, and I was recently nominated by my school for the Jefferson Scholarship. I have my regional interview coming up soon, and it is my first formal interview. I’ve had a couple of college alumni interviews, but I’m stressing out over the manner and types of questions they will ask in this formal setting.
Does anyone know what types of questions the interviewers will ask?
Any advice for me as I prepare for this?
Thanks so much!!
My son was in a similar situation last year. Although he wasn’t selected for the finalist round in CHarlottsville, it was a great experience (and honor to be nominated).
This may vary by region (we are in FL). His interview was conducted by a panel of 5 “board members” of the Jefferson Scholarship (this is truly separate from UVA admissions). He felt like it was more of a group conversation. They did ask him a lot about his application (essay, ECs, school) and the standard strengths and weaknesses.Towards the end, they asked him about his opinion (no wrong answer) on current events and /or social topics (i.e. global warming - not actually that but you get the idea). They don’t really care what side you take, but rather if you can express yourself clearly. They are looking for critical thinking skills.
Ultimately he enjoyed it and made his college interviews much easier. Just be yourself and you’ll be fine.
sure they don’t care what your answers are. I don’t believe it.
This is an intellectual conversation designed for them to gauge your academic interests, leadership abilities, integrity, compassion,etc. They want to see how you defend your position, not what your position is. The first thing they asked my son was about his favorite vacation. He immediately said, “That’s easy, my first trip to Fenway Park” and the Gentlemen in charge said something like, “Oh that’s going to be a problem as I used to work in the Yankees organization”. There was a pause and then a big laugh and then he was at ease for the next 45 minutes. It became more like a conversation.
He thought he nailed it. Lot of talented kids. They only choose one per region. Amazing opportunity for those who get it.
Hey guys! I have my regional interview coming up as well and was wondering what most people wear. I understand that it is business casual but any examples would be greatly appreciated! Also, is there anything that I should bring (resume, etc.)? Any other general advice would be helpful as well. Thanks so much!
My daughter had her interview on Sunday. She said the men all wore suits and the ladies wore dressy dresses. The dresses were more trendy and cute and opposed to business-y styles. The interviewers wore suits, men and women. Good luck!!!
My daughter didnt bring anything. All the interviewers had a binder with her app, resume, essay and school pic. She said one student had a packet of paper with notes.
Does anyone know how the second round of interviews differs from the first?