Reflections as a mock interviewer

I spent some time this week giving mock interview practice for Oxbridge and this made me reflect on what I would be looking for as an interviewer.

First and foremost it is true that they are looking for an academic conversation. One of my students thanked an interviewer at the end of an interview, because it had been so “fun”. What I delved deeper she said, “I have had a conversation with a world expert on a topic that I love, I learned so much. It was interesting”. Needless to say she gained a place. So first and foremost, it’s that conversation that they are looking for.

Secondly, to stand out it can be some small detail that sticks in the interviewer’s mind. I am convinced that many years ago, I gained a place at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, because I referred to the small print noticing that Emma had visiting academics in both the subjects I was interested in. Times have changed, but it is still little details that count. When looking at a given text, just the nuance of the interpretation of a single word can sometimes stand out. They are looking for someone with an individual take on something, even if it may be wrong! So speak out, and share your thinking, as that is interesting.

Finally, it was interesting when students make links with current affairs. So much is happening in the world that can be linked to so many subjects, making links (synoptic thinking) is a high level thinking skill, but it also shows intellectual curiosity, a sign of a good learner.

So when looking forward to your interviews in the coming weeks, my top tips are.

· Smile, and look forward to a conversation with an expert in a field you love.

· Be prepared.

o Why do you want to study this subject?

o What links can you make between current events and the subject you are wanting to study.

o Know your personal statement inside out. Know something interesting, that you would like to talk about, given the opportunity, and find something interesting to share.

· Finally, be early, and if doing it online, make sure all the tech is working well in advance. Then enjoy