Student Services Career Development Center Macalester College
Career Development Center

If you would like personalized assistance, please contact the CDC for an individual appointment, or stop by during drop-in hours Monday through Friday between 2 P.M. and 4 P.M.

Applying: Interviews

Some graduate schools require applicants to be interviewed. An interview offers the school the opportunity to find out how the person thinks and approaches problems. The applicant may be asked to deal with controversial issues and would do well to think about some possibilities ahead of time.

Consider the following:

  • What are the questions that might be asked?
  • What is this program seeking in applicants?
  • What do you have to contribute to the program and the field?
  • How will you benefit from the program?
  • How will the program contribute to your career goals?
  • What do you want the interviewer to know about you?
  • What are some questions you would like to ask (be sure these are based on preparation)?

Tips for Preparing for Interviews

  • Practice the interview in a mirror
  • Practice the interview with a counselor and discuss feedback/suggestions
  • Use video equipment to record your practice interviews
  • Research the school, program, and your qualifications and characteristics


Macalester College · 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105  USA · 651-696-6000
Comments and questions to cdc@macalester.edu