What the Interviewer Wants to Know
You’re being asked to do so for a good reason. Your interviewer wants to know what activities you participated in and why, including those outside the classroom. What did you learn from them? Why are those memories still valuable to you today? Preparing an articulate and honest answer could put you ahead of other applicants.
Focus on the Values of the Company
Look back at the job listing. Identify some of the key skills or qualities mentioned there and think about college experiences that helped you develop those skills. You can also look at the “About Us” section on the company’s website to get a sense of their mission and values. Think about college experiences that helped you develop any of these key qualities.
Explain Why the Experience Was Rewarding
Don’t simply recount your experience. Explain why you found it so valuable in a sentence or two. Again, try to connect what you got out of the experience to the values or qualities the company appears to be looking for in a candidate.
Be Honest and Sincere
You want to connect your college experience to the job, but you also want to sound sincere. Don’t make up an experience or say that you loved an activity or event that you actually hated. Employers can tell when you’re simply telling them what you think they want to hear.
Review Sample Answers
Start preparing your answer by finding a sample interview answer that will inspire your own reply based on your personal experiences and background. Some suggestions: Volunteering as a writing tutor: Pre-orientation “outward bound” program: Being academically challenged every day: Stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring the world: Joining a sports team: Be Truthful and Genuine Hiring managers will be able to tell if you’re dishonest in your reply. Tell a Story How did your experience change you for the better? Convey that to the interviewer and you’ll make a good impression.
