Impress College Deans with Passionate Interviews
Students are under pressure to get into university. Students are under siege to their parents’ expectations and their own. Students are overwhelmed by University applications. Not to mention the dreaded INTERVIEW. With so many applicants offering stellar test scores and transcripts packed with extracurricular activities and AP Courses universities are finding it difficult to filter out which students will truly thrive on their campuses. As more than 20,000 undergraduate students either return to or begin classes at the University of Calgary, roughly, half of the applicants did not receive acceptance into this fall semester, the Calgary Herald Examiner has found. The factors determining which students would be best suited for campus is growing increasingly difficult.
Consequently, many educational institutions are both making changes to their admissions processes and placing increasing emphasis on personal interviews. MIT (MA), for instance, now has its interviewers rank applicants from 1 to 5 on how the student would “fit” the university. Other schools are supercharging the interview process. The University of Rochester (NY) will interview 2,000 applicants this year compared to about 200 last year, and Illinois Wesleyan University is offering $200 travel vouchers to low-income applicants so that they can interview on campus. The University of Denver reveals only an applicant’s name to interviewers, to eliminate academic achievement bias. One new question they ask: “Tell us about a time you interacted with someone different from you.” It is a far cry from, “Why do you want to go to college?”(Business & Finance, 2007)
Personal interviews are a key to entry into universities. Students who can passionately articulate their dreams and ambitions are more likely to gain entry into the institution of their choice. The interview is an opportunity to explain detours in record and prove you are the kind of person the schools want and need. Demonstrating energy and enthusiasm for your academics and extracurricular activities indicates to your alumni interviewer or Dean that you will transfer that energy and desire for success to the academic setting.
Unfortunately, many students are unable to present themselves and their attributes in a favorable light. It seems a simple task-to be excited about one’s fine academic records and extracurricular activities. Nevertheless, if you are afraid to speak out your interview can be a disaster. It doesn’t matter if you are eight or eighty: speaking in front of any audience can be frightening.
People who experience public speaking anxiety admit their concern that they will be embarrassed if they speak. “I am so afraid I will make a mistake and look stupid during my interview. It’s really scary,” said Vancouver High School student Kristina Robbins “I need to get into a good university and I want to be perfect.”
The history and cause of public speaking fear and anxiety is frequently associated with a previously upsetting or humiliating public speaking experience. While many adults suffer from this same fear they have often received training or objective feedback from friends or colleagues and have the skills to conquer their fear. Studies have shown these students often have low self-esteem.
In addition to the debilitating emotional aspects of this phobia, students can also suffer from physical symptoms as well. “My hands get so cold and clammy and I feel like I could faint,” adds Kristina. “My voice is shaky and I sweat.”
The bottom line is students are under enormous pressure to succeed and this pressure adds to their fear and discomfort in college interviews. They can feel short of breath, dizzy, upset stomach, and extreme forgetfulness.
The good news for students experiencing public speaking anxiety is that there is much you can do to quell fear and hone skills. I have frequently helped students conquer their fears, ace their interview and give great oral presentations with proper preparation. They feel increased comfort in front of their audience and use their fear to energize the interview. An oratory class or training is an excellent choice to refine these important skills; however, many students do not have the resources to work with a professional. However students can utilize a few simple steps combined with careful choice of topic, preparation, and practice and be ready to dazzle an audience.
The following are a few tips that can help students prepare for interviews and public speaking events.
How to Prepare for an Oral Presentation
• Most importantly, remember to breathe. Take in a good breath before you start. This will calm your nerves and allow you time to organize your thoughts. Begin on a positive note without apologies.
• Make sure your voice reflects enthusiasm and Smile (a lot).
• Ask questions about the organization-they want to know that you are interested in learning.
• Make eye contact.
• Tell a personal story – pick one in advance that will highlight your best qualities
• Prepare an activity sheet listing your accomplishments, hobbies, goals, and dreams.
• Prepare a short speech about yourself and practice in front of friends, family or a recorder. It is best not to memorize this piece. It is a guide. In addition, practice for interviews by answering a list of potential questions. Every little bit prepares and calms you.
• Allow your personality to shine. Incidentally, the best public speakers practice too.
Pamela Hart is Founder of Release Your Voice, a Public Speaking and Leadership Training Company.
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