By Ann Chen
Those of you who are applying for graduate schools in Taiwan will know that there are two ways to do it. First, you pay some money and take an entrance exam in April (the numbers of exams depend on how many programs you apply for), which most students do. But there’s another way to get into grad schools without taking the formal exam–the recommendation test. However, this does not apply to every program (e.g. the graduate program of our department). You can buy a brochure during October of each year from every school, and see if the programs you’re interested in have a recommendation test. The recommendation test is not as competitive as the one in April, because only a few people will be qualified to apply; however, it’s tough. Usually you take a paper-based test first, and if you’re lucky enough to pass, you move on to the next level, which is the most frightening and exciting part–the interview. Though people say that it is rather subjective and unfair, and that one can only pray to pass it, still, there are several techniques to help you get through an interview successfully. It’s true that people feel nervous about the unknown. You get panicked because you don’t know what the interviewers are going to ask, and you’re uncertain whether they will approve of what you say. However, you probably don’t want to be nervous throughout the interview; as a result, the best thing to do is to be fully prepared. For instance, you should know what the goals of the program are; you should do some research beforehand, and try to understand the program as much as you can. Most importantly, ask someone to give you a practice interview. Try to make up some plausible questions, practice answering them, and have someone correct the answers for you. Asking people for advice does help. Remember, the more you prepare up front, the more relaxed you will feel during the interview; the more relaxed you feel, the better you’re going to perform. The first five minutes of the interview are critical. The interviewers can quickly tell if you’re the person they’re looking for. They’ve read your transcript, autobiography, research proposal, and some of your personal records; they already have a sketch about who you are. However, how you behave and react during the interview determines your destiny. When you walk into the room, be polite and don’t forget to smile. Remember, first impressions are very important. Usually the first few questions are simple, such as introducing yourself in three minutes, why you’re applying for this program, what you plan to do with the degree, etc. The key to mastering these questions is to be prepared for them. The clothes you wear also create a strong impression. However, since this is not a real job interview, don’t forget you’re only a student at the moment, so don’t overdress. Simply pick something decent. When you speak, try to be confident. Teachers often judge students from their manner and temperament. Even if the teachers ask you a killer question which you have no idea how to answer, just chill out; tell them that you don’t know how to answer it. Remember, honesty is always the best policy, and don’t try to act as if you know everything; you’re just making fun of yourself. Always present yourself in the best possible light, and be who you are. Be determined and firm in your responses. To be a champion means you have to believe you’re the best. You should always have faith in what you say. Show your strongest motivation and enthusiasm for the program. Teachers are not looking only for students who are outstanding in academics; in most cases, they’re also looking for those who are highly motivated, enthusiastic, and bold in speaking their mind. Eye contact is also important. You have to make the interviewers feel that you’re a sincere person, but not aggressive. Don’t stare at the ceiling or look at the floor, and don’t just freeze your eyes on one of the interviewers. Move your eyes smoothly to each of them, and from time to time look around the room. It shows that you’re confident, and that you’re handling the interview with ease. You might want to use some gestures, but don’t exaggerate them. It’s true that interviews are subjective, and you never know if the interviewers favor you or not. And sometimes it’s hard to predict what the questions might be, or how you’re going to react to them. But the most important thing is, be prepared and have faith in yourself. Remember, you are a special person, and you should make others feel that too during an interview. #Volume 8 Issue 2#studentlife a
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May 2024
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