Joe Mason, a 2nd year B.A. History student recently came to see us and have a mock interview ahead of his interview at Freshfields and got the job! Here is his take on how the mock interview helped him…
“I was recently accepted onto the Freshfields LLP vacation scheme, and I can say without doubt that the mock-interview service offered by UCL Career Services was a crucial factor. Interviews can be difficult to get right; you have to master nerves, cover basic relevant competencies whilst still attempting to ‘stand out from the crowd’. I found, however, that the mock interview process covered all of these aspects and more.
First, it was fantastic to be interviewed by an ex-lawyer. It gave me a huge boost of confidence to be asked realistic and taxing questions, and to be giving answers that would be scrutinized as harshly as a practicing lawyer would. We covered everything that I had not thought of. The first question, “Tell me about yourself”, proved an initial stumbling block, and it was useful to practice and understanding what even the simplest questions are looking for.
Secondly, we went through a number of key competency questions. Every question I answered we discussed briefly afterwards. These discussions could have been purely praise, or more likely they unpacked different and better ways of answering the question. At least three of the mock questions came up at the real interview. This meant that I answered each clearly and quickly whilst covering the content they were looking for.
Thirdly, the mock-interview reminded me of why I applied for law in the first place. When you’re surrounded by the array of application forms and online tests, it is easy to forget what drew you to the career in the first place. My mock-interview actually made me excited for my real interview. With the core competencies in place and with confidence boosted, I believe this is why I ‘stood out from the crowd’ and offered a vacation scheme place.”
See how a mock interview can help you: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/careers/students/skills/interviews/adviser
Are you a PhD student? Did you know that we have a number of employers leading mock interviews for you? Register before the 17th January to secure your place: http://uclpostgraduatecareers.wordpress.com/2013/01/09/phd-mock-interviews-with-employers-wednesday-30th-january-2013/
