At Mizzou, students have the opportunity to interview for a variety of activities—jobs, organizations and scholarships. Interviews in college can be quite stressful, so here are some of my tips and tricks for success.
Information Sessions
Many organizations on campus require students to attend an information session, or info session, before filling out an application. The information session is a chance to set yourself up for success. Attend an information session as soon as possible to show the organization your excitement about joining. I highly recommend introducing yourself to the organization’s executive board. Show your drive, initiative and good social skills through a simple interaction. Try and ask questions to create an interpersonal relationship—make yourself memorable.
Interviews
One-on-ones, dual interviews and group interviews are some different types that organizations and employers use at Mizzou. One-on-one interviews are classic. If interviewing for an organization, the interviewer is more than likely going to be another student, possibly an upperclassmen, on the organization’s executive board or in a position of experience as an upperclassman member. Stay professional despite the fact that the interviewer(s) is a student— this person could potentially be the organization’s future president, vice president or in another position of leadership, or serve as a boss or mentor.
Before attending Mizzou, I had never heard of dual or group interviews. They tend be used by some competitive organizations and jobs. Dual interviews are two-on-ones: one interviewer or one panel of interviewers and two applicants. This does not necessarily mean one of you will be accepted over the other because you are interviewed together. It is just a way for the interviewer to see how you interact with another person. Distinguish yourself from the other students, but be friendly, open and genuine.
Group interviews typically consist of a panel of executive board members or general members and several other applicants. The main purpose of a group interview is to assess the applicants’ abilities to work in groups and communicate effectively. Some tips for group interview behavior include not talking over your peers, offering a unique take on the topic of conversation and using adept social skills. Even though the group of fellow applicants is competition, remain positive and respectful. When answering the panel’s questions, address the group as well. If you appreciate and agree with something another applicant says, compliment them and use their answer as a guide. Show your ability to collaborate.
Dress Code
Thoughtfully consider dress code. Interviewers will more than likely ask you to wear either business casual or business formal. Business casual is less formal than traditional business wear, but is still intended to give a professional and businesslike impression. Business formal consists of suits, pant suits or dresses with jacket for women, neutral, practical shoes, good grooming, ironed clothes and overall attention to detail.
Certain organizations, including the Alumni Association Student Board (AASB), which I now serve on, asked me to wear “black and gold business casual.” In my case, I had to make a quick trip to Target since I hadn’t prepared for such a specific dress code request. I recommend bringing either a nice gold blouse or tie to Mizzou, just in case you decide to apply and interview for one of these organizations.
If you ever find yourself without appropriate clothing for an interview and are financially limited, head over to Truman’s Closet at the university’s Rock Quarry Facility. The mission of Truman’s Closet, according to the Missouri Student’s Association website, is to offer students, faculty and staff the ability to borrow professional business attire free of charge. Truman’s Closet is a fifteen minute walk from the center of campus. It’s a great alternative to buying an entire suit or dress for one interview.
Walking into an interview, have the confidence to be yourself, and believe in yourself and your talents. Realize that Mizzou is a place with countless opportunities to help students grow, become their best selves and make their own mark. Rejection is difficult, but an important learning experience. And don't be afraid to apply again for organizations that matter to you personally. It shows your dedication.
- Josh Borgshulte, sophomore
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