Why psychology? Regardless of the ultimate goal, interviews maintain common characteristics. For example, expect to be asked about your interest in psychology when applying to graduate school and clinical internships. Impress your interviewer by responding thoroughly, yet doing so in a seemingly effortless manner. During the interview, maintain strong eye contact and be honest.
Admissions
Graduate schools may request an admissions interview to differentiate applicants. Avoid walking into an interview without having practiced different scenarios. Ask friends, family members and mentors to rehearse with you. Also, look professional and confirm key information about the interview location, time and format. Find out if there will be group sessions as well as individual/panel interviews. Arrange travel accommodations if the program is not in your local area. Review your application answers and research your interviewers if you know their names.
Internships
When preparing for a clinical internship, practice answering applicable interview questions. You should have responses for questions such as "Why are you interested in this psychology internship program?" and "How will the program fit with your long-term objectives?" Questions will likely discuss your application responses, so be ready to elaborate on relevant cases and experiences.
Considerations
Avoid conducting yourself in a stiff, unfriendly manner, as you want to demonstrate your academic strengths as well as your ability to interact appropriately with others. Be ready to explain issues, such as your grades or if psychology represents a major career shift. Pose questions to your interviewer about the training and faculty. Remember that you have succeeded if you received an interview request, but you need to utilize the interview to seal the deal.
Tags: your application, your interviewer