For many students, the interview is one of the most important and sometimes nerve-wracking parts of the secondary school admissions process. It’s your chance to move beyond grades and test scores and show schools who you really are. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can make a strong and memorable impression.

Here are five ways to ensure you have a great interview experience:

1. Be Yourself

Admissions teams aren’t looking for rehearsed answers; they’re looking to get to know you. Be honest about your interests, experiences, and personality. If you love robotics, writing stories, or playing basketball with friends, share that! Authenticity always stands out more than a “perfect” answer. Don't try to be who you think they want you to be, be YOURSELF!

2. Practice, But Don’t Over-Rehearse

It helps to practice answering common questions (“Tell me about yourself,” “What’s a challenge you’ve overcome?” “Why are you interested in our school?”). But instead of memorizing responses, think through the main points you want to share. Practicing with a parent, teacher, or consultant can help you feel comfortable speaking clearly and confidently while still sounding natural. If you think about topics ahead of time, you will have an idea of what to say and you are less likely to stumble when answering.

3. Do Your Homework Before Your Secondary School Interview

Before your interview, spend some time exploring the school’s website. Know what makes the school special, its programs, clubs, or values and think about why those things appeal to you. When you can connect your own interests to the school’s offerings, it shows that you’re thoughtful and genuinely excited about the possibility of joining their community. Try to think of things the school offers that are unique to that school. You should be as specific as possible to show you are interested in THAT school, not just ANY secondary school.

4. Show Enthusiasm and Good Manners

A warm greeting, eye contact, and a genuine smile go a long way. Listen carefully to your interviewer and show interest in the conversation. Remember to thank them at the end and if you send a short thank-you note afterward, even better! Enthusiasm, politeness, and curiosity are always remembered.

5. Relax and Enjoy the Conversation

An interview is not an interrogation, it’s a chance to share your story and learn more about the school. Admissions officers want you to succeed and feel comfortable. Take a deep breath, slow down, and enjoy the opportunity to talk about who you are and what excites you about learning. Remember the idea is to share who you are. The admission officers want to get to know you. This is not the time to be shy or humble. If you share your accomplishments, think of it as sharing information, not boasting or bragging. If you don't tell them, they won't know. Admission officers can't read your mind!

Final Thoughts

The best interviews feel like a genuine conversation, not a performance. If you prepare thoughtfully, stay authentic, and approach the experience with curiosity and confidence, you’ll make a strong impression and maybe even enjoy the process along the way. For more tips on how to have a successful interview, reach out to Lisa Marfisi.