Prepare for a Scholarship Interview

Congratulations!  You've been selected for an interview for a college scholarship.  You've done a lot of hard work to get this interview so now is not the time to relax completely.  An interview for a scholarship is similar to a job interview. There are some definite things you want to do.

1. Dress appropriately.  Take care to exercise strong grooming habits.  Your clothing should be clean and pressed.  Hair and teeth should be clean and fingernails should be free of dirt and grime. Jeans are absolutely not acceptable nor is anything low cut or too form fitting.
2. Take all of your materials with you to the interview.  The minimum materials include a resume, letters of reference, and the portfolio you should have put together.  You may additional materials the scholarship committee asks you to bring,
3. Present yourself with confidence but not arrogance.  Emphasize why you deserve this scholarship and articulate your strengths.  Don't be afraid to address any shortcomings the committee may ask you about; just be honest and try to use the opportunity to let the committee know you are not perfect but you recognize shortcomings and work to improve them.
4. Sit forward when you speak to show interest in the interview.
5. Make sure you know the mission of the organization of the scholarship for which you have been selected.  Know a bit about the history of the organization and use this information to help you make a personal connection to the interview committee.
6. When answering a question, try to elaborate on your answer by providing examples to help the committee see a more in depth profile of your experience.  Try to use opportunities in this interview as a chance to show the committee they are investing their money in you and that their investment will reflect a great return.
7. If you learned something from an experience be sure to share that.  This is critical as it helps the committee see how you've grown as a result of your experience.
8. Finally, be sure to thank the people who are interviewing you for their time.  This is personal touch that cannot be over-emphasized.  Let them know you look forward to hearing from them.

You will do great!