Before you walk into any interview...

Let’s face it. 

Going for a little chat with people who 1) are basically strangers to you, and 2) hold a very important part of your future in their hands is more than a little daunting. 

You want to be ready and relaxed (but alert!) when you walk into that final C-CAP scholarship interview.

So here’s what you do to give yourself an advantage.

Pack a little survival assistance into your kit for the competition: Add a clean shirt (a t-shirt is okay), a face cleanser, and a toothbrush or even just some mouthwash or breath freshener.

After the plate presentation judging, take a few minutes to get to the rest room, wash your face, and put on a clean shirt.  Yes, ladies  – you can fix your make up, too (and even change your earrings if you want (guys….think harder about this part!)).

No, you absolutely do not need to do this.  But it will make you feel better and more prepared for the rest of the day.

When you walk into the interview, here’s what to do:

smile and greet each judge individually - by name, if possible

mention that you’re happy/glad/pleased to be there (“It’s great to finally be here.”  “I’m really happy I made it here.”)

ask them how their day is going, what they thought of the competition - in other words, show some awareness of someone besides you!

Before you answer each question, stop for just a second to take a breath.  It will help to relax you and also gives you a moment to think.