How to feel good about your interview

Let’s face it.  Going for a little chat with four 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 as 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 competition kit. 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.

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. 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.”  --- You get the idea.)

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.

Make sure you have at least one or two questions you can ask the interviewers.  (Like this: "What are the most important differences in culinary programs?" OR "What should I expect in my first year of school?" OR "Is there anything you would do differently in your career? Why?") 

Finally, before you leave, say thank you to the interviewers.  (“Thanks for talking with me.  I appreciate the opportunity to be here.”)

With a calm, collected presentation, you’ll make the best impression.  And you can walk out of the interview being positive you’ve done your best.`