Utah State University Career Guide - Flipbook - Page 15
Interviewing With Confidence
Quick Tips
• Resume Review: Tailor your resume to the position and company, highlighting relevant skills
and experiences. Review it before the interview to prepare to discuss any details.
• Research: Show genuine interest by researching the company’s mission and goals. Assess your
fit for the role and prepare thoughtful questions before the interview.
• Rehearse and Refine: Practice! Practice! Practice! Try using resources like standout.com or
mock interviews. Focus on body language and preparing your responses.
• Professionalism: Dress appropriately, arrive 15 minutes early, and bring a notebook
for taking notes.
• Politeness: Arrive early, engage politely, and elaborate on your answers. Be authentic while
staying professional.
• Performance: Use a firm handshake and a friendly demeanor. Listen carefully to each question,
respond concisely (1-2 minutes), and articulate clearly and confidently.
A common question you’ll be asked is ‘Tell me about yourself.’ Your response can set the tone
for the interview, so it is important to think through your response and practice ahead of time.
Include information around your Present situation, your Past experiences, and your Future
goals. Ideas include:
•
The program you are in at Utah State University along with other credentials you’re
working towards such as a minor.
•
What you’re currently involved with (jobs, internships, volunteer work, extracurriculars).
•
Highlight a couple of experiences or qualifications that relate directly to the job.
•
Why you’re interested in this specific job and this specific company.
•
Any long term career goal you may have.
Present
Situation
I am a junior at Utah State University studying elementary education along with a
minor in math. I have a strong passion for working with children and have always
been drawn to creating engaging and interactive lessons for students. This program
stands out to me in particular because of the focus on STEM and high level of
hands-on activities.
Past
Experiences
My experience in the elementary education program thus far has equipped me
with a solid understanding of child development principles, effective teaching
strategies, and the importance of creating a supportive learning environment. I was
able to further develop these through working at the elementary school on the USU
campus throughout the school year.
Future
Goals
This position of a program coordinator stands out to me because it would allow
me to apply more skills and knowledge that I’ve developed. I am enthusiastic about
bringing my skills and knowledge to the role, where I can make a positive impact on
the lives of children during a crucial time of their growth and development.
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