Oberlin College & Conservatory

Interviewing

Interviewing | Interviewing Exercise | Negotiation

No one is born knowing how to interview; it is an acquired skill. Our interviewing guide, resources and links can assist you in learning how to present yourself in the best way possible to a potential employer, graduate school program or fellowship. However, just reviewing our interviewing information is not enough. It is very important that you prepare and practice your interview technique before your actual interview. Be sure to attend an interview preparation workshop and schedule a practice interview with the Office of Career Services.

Practice Interviews

We encourage students who are searching for internships and jobs, or who are interviewing for admission into competitive graduate & professional programs, to consider signing up for a practice interview with an Office of Career Services advisor. Practice interviews are a way to both practice and receive feedback in a safe, supportive environment.

A practice interview will help you:

• Know what to expect on a real interview
• Learn more effective ways to answer different types of questions
• Become more comfortable and confident during interviews
• Have successful real interviews

Practice interview steps:

• Choose a position-of-interest to focus on during your interview, which is usually an internship, job, scholarship finalist award or seat in a grad/professional program. (see Interviewing Exercise)
• Practice interviews generally last 40-50 minutes. For scheduling, please visit or call our office.
• Drop off or email a copy of your resume, along with a description of your position-of-interest, at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. If you are practicing for a graduate or professional school interview, try to include your personal statement with the materials you provide.
• Before your interview, review your resume and research the employer or graduate program. Please prepare for this interview as you would a real interview.