How to Ace Your College Virtual Interview

Congratulations! You have taken the plunge and started the application process to earn your degree. Once your application is received, you may be invited to do a formal interview. Virtual interviews are more common now than ever. Thanks to COVID-19, many colleges and universities have started conducting interviews online instead of in person. Below are a few tips on how to ace your college virtual interview.

1. Be Prepared to Log On

Make sure you check the virtual interview invitation for everything you need to log on. Download any plugins or apps that might be required the day before your interview to troubleshoot and answer any questions you have.

2. Check Your Connections

I can’t stress the importance of this one. Check your audio and video connection before logging on. Starting your virtual interview without sound or video will get you off on the wrong foot, add stress and ruin it if not resolved. Make sure you are ready to go. It will relieve anxiety and ensure you start confidently.

3. Turn Off Notifications

Turn off any notifications or pop-ups on the device you are using. The pings from an incoming email can be distracting during a virtual interview. It will be worth it not to get sidetracked. This advice goes for any other device in the room as well.

4. Location is Important

Find a quiet space free of distractions. By now, we have all seen the videos of people on virtual meetings with unexpected roommates walking through the background…or worse. You want the interview to focus on your achievements and future goals. Pick a place that is out of the main traffic patterns and let anyone in your space know that you are participating in a virtual interview.

5. Use a Simple Background

Now that you have your location chosen, make sure your background is professional and distraction-free. Your environment should be clean and free of clutter. Tidying up will go a long way to making sure you are presenting a professional image during your virtual interview.

6. Dress to Impress

You may have heard this before, but it is crucial. Dress just like you would for an in-person interview. It shows the interviewers that you respect the process, are taking it seriously and are professional.

7. Check the Time Zone

Paying attention to time zones will be vital if you are looking at a college or university that is out of state. Double-check your time zone versus each school’s.

Now that you have all of this taken care of, remember, you’ve got this! You have made it this far. Be confident in your abilities and relax. If you do have questions before your interview, feel free to reach out to our Admissions Team. They are here for you and want to help.