How to prepare for Southwest Scholars Day

1. Reflect on Your Achievements
   1. Identify Key Achievements: Think about your most significant accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, community service, and personal projects.
   2. Prepare Stories: Be ready to share specific stories that highlight your achievements. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
2. Clarify Your Goals
   1. Short-Term and Long-Term Goals: Be clear about your immediate goals (e.g., what you want to study in college) and your long-term aspirations (e.g., career plans).
   2. Connection to Scholarship: Explain how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals. Show the interviewers that you have a clear vision for your future
3. Practice Personal Questions 
   1. Common Questions Could Include:
      1. “What are your proudest achievements?”
      2. “What challenges have you overcome?”
      3. “What are your academic and career goals?”
      4. “How do you plan to contribute to our college community?”
   2. Be honest and let your passion and personality shine through in your answers.
4. Highlight Your Strengths 
   1. Unique Qualities: Think about what makes you unique. What strengths and qualities set you apart from other candidates?
      1. Examples: Provide examples that demonstrate these strengths in action.
5. Prepare Your Own Questions 
   1. Engage with Interviewers: Ask insightful questions about the scholarship, the college, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. This shows your genuine interest and curiosity.
6. Dress and Body Language
   1. First Impressions: Wear business-casual attire that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
   2. Confidence and Enthusiasm: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and smile. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity.
   3. Calm and Composed: Take deep breaths to stay calm. It’s okay to pause and think before answering. You also can ask for clarification on questions that you may have not understood.

Final Tips

• Be Yourself: Authenticity is key. Be honest and let your personality shine through.
• Stay Positive: Focus on your strengths and achievements. Avoid negative comments about yourself or others.
• Practice Self-Care: Get a good night’s sleep before the interview, eat a healthy meal, and stay hydrated.

Good luck with your interview! You’ve got this!