Interview Tips For University

Interviews to study nursing at university can be nerve-racking but here's how best to prepare!

I remember heading off to my first interview and feeling like a complete bag of nerves. Luckily it wasn't for my top choice university, so I mainly used it as a learning experience. Below I've listed a few key things which I hope will help!

1. Interviews for nursing degrees differ at every university, so make sure you read up on what each specific interview will entail and prepare accordingly. For example, most have maths and English tests, some involve group work and others just an individual panel interview. 

2. Like I said preparation is key, so before the interview day make sure you at least do some basic research on the university, the course, why you'd be suited to the career and about nursing in general. Try and link in your answers with real-life examples of how you portray a certain skill, such as 'I had the opportunity to develop my team working skills whilst doing my Duke of Edinburgh's Award'. I found it helpful to write out a list of common questions and my answers to them and then practice with a family member or friend.

3. On the day, make sure you are dressed smartly, have all of the correct documents with you (if necessary) and get to the interview in plenty of time. There is nothing worse than being late when you're already stressed! Be aware that in some universities you may be being observed from the moment you walk in, even before the official interview begins, so be polite and friendly and make an effort to talk to others. 

4. During the interview is the chance to really sell yourself. No one likes a cocky person obviously, but show confidence in your abilities and demonstrate to the interviewers that you are a nurse of the future. Be aware of your body language, don't overthink it but try to be relaxed and smile - it is allowed during an interview!

5. So the interview is over, maybe it went well, maybe it didn't or maybe you don't have a clue. The main thing is that it's over, so there is no point worrying about what has happened, just learn from it and use it for the next interview. 

And lastly, a massive GOOD LUCK (not that you'll need it!)