Tips for Acing a Scholarship Interview?

Hey everyone,

I’m gearing up for a scholarship interview soon and could use some advice. I’ve been through a few interviews before, but this is my first time for a scholarship specifically. I remember when I applied for a summer internship last year, I was so focused on my resume that I didn’t prepare much for the interview itself, and it showed.

Now that I really want this scholarship, I want to make sure I’m fully prepared. What are some key things I should focus on to make a great impression? Any tips or experiences you can share would be super helpful…

Some questions that I think are geared towards scholarship interviews instead of college interviews are: Why do YOU deserve this scholarship? How would this scholarship help you achieve your goals?

Some curveball questions that I’ve also had during scholarship interviews include: Who, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party? Who do you wish you could take a masterclass from? What have you sacrificed while doing XYZ activities? Tell me something that’s not in your application. What question did you prepare for that I didn’t ask?

The best way to prepare is to not prepare.

Having navigated the ups and downs of job applications and interviews, I’ve learned the importance of thorough preparation. Last year, I applied for a summer internship and, unfortunately, focused too much on my resume and not enough on interview prep, which impacted my performance. Now, gearing up for a scholarship interview, I plan to approach it differently. To make a great impression, I’ll research the scholarship organization, understand its values, and prepare to articulate how my goals align with theirs. I’ll also practice common interview questions, refine my personal story, and highlight my achievements and future aspirations. Engaging with mock interviews and seeking feedback will help build confidence and ensure I’m ready to present my best self.