Interviewing can be scary, let’s be honest, but if you are prepared beforehand and determined to try your best, you will feel much more relaxed and probably have a more successful interview. Since I am a senior, I spent quite a few hours on the Career Services floor in Hanes, so here are a few things I learned while going through the on-campus recruitment process.
First of all, they chose you! Not every student is chosen for an interview, so go into your first interview with some confidence. You are qualified to be there, and most importantly, the company believes you are qualified for the position. Now, they just want to get to know you and how you think. So, be yourself, prepare for behavioral interview questions (The internet is your best friend. Look up some beforehand to have scenarios ready to go), and take a deep breath. They might want you just as badly as you want them!
Secondly, avoid extra stress at all costs. Go to sleep early the night before, set your alarm with plenty of time to get dressed, review your notes, and arrive at your interview at least 15-20 minutes early. Do not wake up as if you are going to class, giving yourself only ten minutes to look presentable before you run out the door without your resume and possibly mismatched shoes. That may be extreme, but it really is important to lay everything out the night before and give yourself ample time to gather your thoughts before you interview for a job that could be just the right fit for you!
Lastly, do not give up. I know it is hard being rejected. We have all been there, myself included, but that does not mean that you will not be hired. Maybe you were not the right fit for a specific company, or even five companies, but there is a right fit. Whenever I got rejected, I was not surprised most of the time because I did not enjoy the interview process with those companies, meaning they probably did not enjoy it either. When I finally found a company that fit, I knew it was right for me, and it just so happened that the company thought I was right for them as well! So, even after the stressful interview process, the sleepless nights, and the countless hours of being asked to talk about myself and times that I overcame challenges and failed (believe me, it gets a little repetitive at times), I came out not only alive but with a job I am extremely excited to start upon graduation! You can do the same, I am sure of it.