Interview Tips
Going for an interview, whatever the reason, can be daunting. So to help you prepare we’ve put together a few tips and hints that might help you on the day.
Try Before You Apply
Choosing a University is a big decision so it makes sense to visit a range of different institutions before you make your final choices. Open Days are an ideal way to get a real feel for a place. We run Open Days in October and June, so there are plenty of opportunities for you to check us out.
Make Sure You Know How to Get Here
This is not the time to get lost on route so for interviews in Newcastle. Click here for directions to the school.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
The last thing you want on the day of your interview is to arrive hot and bothered. Also, if you are travelling with friends or family, make some time for yourself before your interview. It will help you stay focused and may give you a chance to chat to other candidates
Try to Relax
The interview is not meant to be an ordeal – just a chance for us to learn a bit more about you and for you to find out more about us.
Think Ahead
Be ready to tell us;
- why you’ve applied to Northumbria School of Design in particular
- what it is about our course that appeals to you above all others
- who and what inspires you
- what your aspirations are – where you want to be in 10 years time
- what you have done that demonstrates your commitment
Be Prepared to Talk Through Your Portfolio
Don’t get hung up about whether each piece is good enough, we’re much more interested in what inspired you, the research you undertook and your creative thought process than whether you’ve got perfect technique.
Tell Us About Yourself
Talent alone doesn’t guarantee success – it takes motivation, initiative, drive and sheer hard work. Show us you’ve got what it takes. Give us some evidence of work or projects you’ve been involved in that demonstrate these qualities. These examples don’t all have to be design related – they could be things you’ve done in your community or as part of a team.
Above All Come Prepared
Think carefully about what you want to ask us. Feel free to come equipped with a list of questions!
Why not do a dry run interview with your tutor, a friend or your parents? There’s nothing worse than sitting in an interview at a loss for words or tongue tied, so it pays to invest a bit of time practising.
