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Column: How to prepare and succeed in interviews

Interviews are often a dreaded part of the process of finding work or gaining acceptance into a school or program. However, with these few tips, the process of preparing can be easily minimized and allow you to tailor your responses and showcase confidence during the interview. Preparation: Research possible questions and prepare for them. Anticipate […]
<a href="https://highschool.latimes.com/author/rhododendronism/" target="_self">Neil Xu</a>

Neil Xu

August 16, 2025

Interviews are often a dreaded part of the process of finding work or gaining acceptance into a school or program. However, with these few tips, the process of preparing can be easily minimized and allow you to tailor your responses and showcase confidence during the interview.

Preparation: Research possible questions and prepare for them. Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses in advance. Practice your answers to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements. Be sure to provide specific examples that demonstrate your abilities.

Make a good impression: According to Insider, it only takes seven seconds to make a first impression. Make a positive first impression by dressing appropriately for the interview. Dress professionally, and show your interviewer that you are an amiable person with good qualities that will contribute to the organization in a positive way.

Highlight Accomplishments: Show why you should be accepted and show why you are the best candidate for the position that you are applying to. Try to use relevant accomplishments. In all, know your strengths, know where you’re going, and apply your strengths to it. 

Active Listening: Learn to listen to your interviewers and respond carefully, making sure to answer the question completely and confidently. Instead of answering with short, terse answers, make sure your responses cover all the points asked and perhaps even some more.

Ask Questions: Interviewers love when you ask questions. Try to have at least two or more and ask questions not commonly found on the Web or easily answered. This shows interviewers that you are truly interested in the position. Ask questions relevant to you and your experience to the position.

Remember, the most important part is showing your enthusiasm to become a part of the organization and contribute positively to the team effort. If you truly want the job or school applied to, an interview can be as easy as pie. 

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