Interview and Scholarship Tips

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How to Answer 16 of the Most Popular College Scholarship Interview Questions

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If you have applied to scholarship programs through colleges and universities or third parties, you may be invited to interview. As you prepare, be sure to think about what makes you excited about this particular scholarship program. You should also help the selection committee understand what makes you in particular a good candidate for the opportunity.



In this post, l will give you advice on how to answer 16 of the most popular scholarship interview questions that College students are asked every year. Try printing these out and giving them to a friend or family member to quiz you.





1. Tell us about yourself.


Practice an elevator pitch that takes no more than a minute. Try to list a number of different interesting things about you so the interviewer has a lot of facts to consider. It should hint at the one thing you care about most.



Example: My name is Emma, and I’m currently a senior at Carlsbad High School. I have loved my studies there, in particular the two languages I get to take, Spanish and Mandarin. I have spent the past few summers exploring my love of literature in summer programs and by launching my own literary magazine. When I’m not reading or writing, I like to spend time with my two younger siblings and my friends from Varsity Soccer.



This is a good answer because Emma gives an overview of lots of interests while also hinting at her main interest, languages and literature.





2. Were you involved in any activities at school or in your community?


Answer with a couple of your strongest extracurricular activities, in school and out. Be sure you come prepared with at least a few out-of-school and in-school examples. Talk about why you chose these and list a couple key accomplishments.



Example: Yes, I play tuba with the marching band in school, and last year my friends and I started a tutoring program for seniors and juniors to work with sophomores and freshmen. Outside of school, I am a black belt in Taekwondo and teach classes for younger students. I’m pretty extroverted, and I love these three activities because they let me share what I know and love with others.



This answer connects three fairly different extracurricular activities by pointing out they are all group activities that require the applicant to use his teaching skills.





3. Tell us about your greatest strength.


Don’t mistake your greatest strength for your greatest interest. Be sure to list something for which you have ample examples showcasing your strength.



Example: I think I’m really good at finding a middle ground. Last year, I was on Prom Committee, and two of our leaders were in a deadlock over where to host the venue. One kept talking about the high rates of Option A, and the other was saying that Option B was not in a safe part of town. I was able to point out that they were optimizing on different values and suggested we look for safe, low-cost venues. We wound up hosting the event at a beautiful indoor garden close to the school, and the committee got along better once we realized we could compromise.



This answer is strong because the applicant supports his claim with a very concrete example where he used his strength to help others.





4. What is your greatest weakness?


This question is designed to assess whether you are introspective and learn from your mistakes. Rather than listing a stagnant or generic weakness like “I lose my temper” or “I’m messy,” try to think of an area that you have identified as a weakness and made attempts to improve.



Example: I’m always looking for ways to be more assertive. In freshman year, all of my teachers mentioned that I was not good at speaking up in class. After that, I joined the debate club so I would learn how to craft responses on my feet. Much to my surprise, I started winning tournaments and even qualified for the state competition this year. I still struggle to bring that into the classroom, but my teachers have started commenting on my progress.



This student does a good job of choosing a real weakness she has but pointing to steps she has taken to overcome it. She avoids bragging but also gives herself credit for her recent success.





5. Describe your biggest mistake.


Again, you want to think of an answer that emphasizes you know how to learn from past experience. You should also indicate that you are not stuck in the past. While you acknowledge you have messed up, also point out ways that you have gotten better. This is a good time to address any disciplinary action on your record.



Example: Two years ago, I yelled at my co-captain on the morning of a tennis tournament that our school was hosting because he had forgotten to bring the extra tennis balls we would need. He said it hurt his feelings but did not make a big deal of it at the time, so I figured it was an okay way to blow off steam. Then last year, something similar happened to me while I was helping with our high school musical. I realized how hurtful it is for someone to call you stupid, whereas before I thought it was not nice but also not something that really got under people’s skin. Now, whenever I get upset, I’ll take really deep breaths or even go on a walk if I have to. I haven’t yelled at anyone since.



This answer is great because it shows the student has really grappled with her faults and made lifestyle changes to prevent her from repeating her mistakes.





6. Tell me about your leadership experience.


Leadership can be in a formal position or simply a time you took responsibility for the wellbeing of others. How did you lead in positive ways that others might not have been able to?



Example: I didn’t think of myself as a leader until I joined the Associated Student Body in my Junior Year as Vice President. Then I saw all kinds of changes that we were able to make, and I realized I had a good eye for noticing how to isolate the problem in complex social situations. This year, I became President of the Model UN Club and get to practice solving problems on a global scale.



This student is able to point to problem-solving as her strength in two separate leadership experiences.



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7. What is your favorite book/movie/song?


This is a gimme, just be prepared to explain what it is you like about the piece. You want to avoid giving an answer out of habit but being unable to back up why that book/movie/song means so much to you.



Example: My favorite book is Finding You by Lydia Albano. The main character, Isla, is sold into slavery, and at first she hopes that someone from her past will come rescue her. She doesn’t think she can because she’s small and not very strong. But in the end she actually winds up saving a bunch of other girls when she creates an escape plan for them. I like this book because I would also like to work to end human trafficking. Like Isla, sometimes I feel like I can’t do anything to help, but she gives me courage to try.



This student connects her favorite book to her own personality and career aspirations, so it is clear why she takes it so personally.





8. What subject is your favorite in school?


This question aims to determine whether you have a sincere love of learning. You do not have to give specific examples of how you have thrived in the class. However, you should be able to explain what you like about that subject.



Example: I love studying Biology because I get to learn about all kinds of different ways animals have adapted to their environment. My favorite thing I learned this year is that lots of fish can switch from being male to female under the right circumstances. In the wild, it happens pretty frequently.



This student answered with one subject and gave an example of the sort of lesson that she especially enjoys.

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9. What is a meaningful experience or class you’ve had in school?


Try to think of an example that shows how you have learned or changed. The story should be told in your own voice. If you are funny, go ahead and try to make it humorous. If that is not how you lead, then just stick to your own voice so your answer comes across as genuine.



Example: In Freshman year, we read the Iliad for English class, and our teacher took us on a field trip to hear a live performance of parts of the Iliad. I really liked it because, even though we had been reading it all semester, it came to life when you heard someone acting it out. I also think that it made the story stick with me. I don’t remember some of the books we’ve read, but I will always know who Patroclus and Hector are.



It’s clear that this student has been actively engaging with his coursework from the answer that he gives, since he describes the memory in detail.





10. Who do you look up to? Who is your role model?


It is important to pick someone who has a very clear trait you want to emulate. No one is perfect, so don’t worry about choosing someone with faults as well. This question is designed to identify whether you can find and admire positive traits.



Example: I really look up to Sophie Blanchard, one of the first women to ride in a hot air balloon. She used to try daring journeys, first with her husband and then alone. She lost consciousness in a hailstorm and ultimately died when she tried to light fireworks from her balloon while it was in midair. I think Blanchard was reckless, but ultimately I admire her for trying something new and not being afraid. Though if I ever go in a hot air balloon, no fireworks!



Even though this student picked a controversial figure, she was able to clarify what about Sophie Blanchard that inspired her: Blanchard’s courage.





11. Where do you see yourself in 5/10/20 years?


No one is going to hold you to your answer, so it’s okay to paint a picture that you are not 100% sure is your future path. Try to focus on career and service accomplishments more than family or personal life.



Example: I know I love nature, so I’ll probably be living in the Rocky Mountains shortly after college. I also want to be a geologist, so I’ll probably live near a university town like Boulder, CO. I’m creating a periodic table collection of rocks, and I think in 10 years I will have completed my collection.



This student has a clear picture of how their passions relate to their future, and they have already started taking steps to make that dream a reality.





Questions about the Opportunity


12. Why did you chose this university or college?


This question is designed to separate trophy collectors from students who really want to attend that university or college. Be sure to come prepared with specific resources or characteristics that mean a lot to you which this university or college has to offer. Try to pick something you don’t find everywhere. For instance, “the diverse student body” is not as good of an answer as “the World Awareness citation offered through the Political Science department.”



I really love the “Peace, War, and Defense” program at UNC Chapel Hill. It’s the only one of its kind in the entire country. In my visit to Chapel Hill, I also could not help but notice that the people here are incredibly kind and friendly. The honor code means I would be able to leave my stuff around campus and not worry about people stealing it. I also want to be close to my parents, who live in Charlotte.



This student has considered the benefits of his school of choice based on a number of different criteria: culture, location, and academics.





13. Why should you be the one to receive this scholarship?


Read the scholarship’s description of an ideal candidate beforehand to double check that you know what traits they are seeking. Then focus in on one or two of those that you have in spades and build your answer around that.



Example: A Jefferson Scholar should demonstrate service, scholarship, and citizenship, all of which have been my focus in high school. Since founding the Student Service League, I have had the chance to serve across the county and practice service leadership. As a student member of the School Board, I have begun to shape my hometown with strategic policy changes. Being a Jefferson Scholar will allow me to afford attending UVA and learn what it takes to lead as a policy-maker.



The student balances his answer with past successes, knowledge of the scholarship, and a vision of how he would benefit from receiving this opportunity.





14. How will you use the scholarship money?


Address what academic or financial goals become available thanks to this money.



Example: This scholarship would allow me to visit China the summer before I matriculate. This visit back to Chengdu is something I have always wanted to do so I can understand where my family comes from and to volunteer at the orphanage where my dad grew up. It will also help me decide whether I want to pursue a career of social work.



In her answer, the student paints a very clear picture of how she will spend the money wisely to further her education in a way she would not otherwise be able to afford.



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Closing Remarks


15. What questions do you have for me?


You always should have questions. This shows you were planning ahead. Prepare at least four beforehand, and feel free to add to those based on what you learn in the interview.



Yes, as a former scholarship recipient yourself, did you notice what made this experience a special one?



What do you wish people in my shoes knew about attending St. Mary’s College?



Do you have any advice for me as I prepare for college?



All of these questions indicate that the applicant is thinking about the choices ahead of her and not passively moving through the application process.





16. Is there anything else you’d like to add?


Quickly review what you have talked about so far. Are there any major accomplishments you neglected to mention (i.e. the top line of your resume, not necessarily anything else)? Do you think you’ve given the wrong impression at any point? This is a great chance to counterbalance any negative impression you have given. It’s a good time to think on your feet.



I actually think we’ve covered everything. Thank you so much for taking time to speak with me!



This student felt like the interview covered all major aspects of their personality and profile. They said thank you, which is a great idea and makes your interviewer feel respected.



Good luck on interviews! If you are looking to learn more about college scholarships, check out these articles:

Tips for Responding to Chef Interview Questions

As you consider how you'll respond to interview questions, keep these tips in mind:

Use Examples
Look for ways to share relevant experience from previous roles. If you're asked about how you'd handle a staffing shortage, your answer will be most meaningful if you can point to what you've done in a similar situation in the past.
Focus On the Company's Needs
Doing a bit of research on the company will help you frame your response.

You should make sure you are familiar with the restaurant’s cuisine and menu, and as much of its business model and history as you can find out.

For example, if you're interviewing for a role as a chef on a cruise ship, it may be important to emphasize your flexibility. For a chef role in a diner, focusing on your speed may make a positive impression, while if you're interviewing at a five-star restaurant, your precision and palate may be most valued.

Reach Out to Contacts
If you know someone who is currently working at the restaurant, or worked there previously, tap them for potential insider information to help you make the best impression during your interview.

The more you know about how the business is run, the better you can tailor your answers to show how you will improve their menu and profitability.

Know Your Own Resume Well
You'll likely be asked about your previous roles. You don't want to fumble or seem uncertain. Be prepared to discuss the restaurants where you've worked in the past.

Think Beyond Food
Of course, one of the most important aspects of a chef's role is cooking food and creating a menu. But many times, your responsibilities will include much more than just the oversight of the kitchen.

You may have management of the front of house as well, and be responsible for hiring waitstaff, bartenders, cooks, and other employees. Be prepared to discuss the general restaurant and food service skills as well, especially as they relate to the efficient running of a dining establishment.

Come With Questions of Your Own
Make sure you have some questions to ask the interviewer to show them your depth of knowledge and interest in the position.

Keep it Positive
Working in a kitchen can be a hot, stressful situation. Personality matters! Be prepared to respond to questions about how you work with others and handle stress.

Even if a question sets you up to share details about frustrating work environments, avoid complaining or pointing a finger at managers or former colleagues. Doing so can leave a bad impression.

Chef Interview Questions
Expect to get questions in a few different categories.

Questions About You and Your Training
Why did you decide to become a chef? What other back-of-house positions have you held?
Did you go to culinary school? What credentials did you earn through your culinary studies?
What did you like best about the education experience? What did you like least?
Where and how were you trained?
Why are you leaving your current position?
Why are you interested in working at this restaurant?
Do you have a sense of humor?
Questions About Your Management Experience & Work Style
What is your management style? What management style do you prefer for your supervisor to have?
How many employees report to you? What levels are the employees who are your direct reports?
Are you a team player? Describe your usual role in a team-centered work environment. Do you easily assume a leadership role?
Tell me about a difficult situation and how you handled it.
Describe the relationship between back-of-house and front-of-house operations.
Tell me about your experience with employee and workforce management. Describe the last time you had to discipline a subordinate.
What would you do if a customer sent back a meal?
Are you able to work flexible hours?
Questions About Food and Cooking
Is there a chef you admire the most? Who and why?
What is your favorite cuisine? How many different types of cuisine are you capable of producing?
What is your favorite cuisine to cook?
What is your favorite wine?
Tell me about your wine knowledge.
Tell me about pairing wine and food.
What trends are you noticing regarding wine and food pairings?
What is an example of a springtime menu you would prepare for me?
If you were asked to reduce fat and sodium in a menu, what would you do to maintain flavor in the quality of the dish?
What do you do to stay current on new trends? Describe two or three of the most interesting industry trends.
How do you test the quality of your ingredients?
Describe your knowledge of food safety.
How involved are you in the beverage component of your establishment?
How involved are you with menu development and overall design?
When are you happiest at work?

Questions About the Business Aspects of Restaurants
If you were told that your food cost was high, what five things would you look at first?
What is the average annual revenue of the restaurants you have worked in?
How involved are you in the financial aspects of the business?
Tell me about your budgeting, purchasing, and inventory control experience.

*Questions About Leaving Your Job*
Employers almost always ask about why you left, or are leaving, your job. Be prepared with an explanation for why you're moving on. Do make sure the reasons you give match what past employers will say about you if they are contacted for a reference.

Why are you leaving your job?
Why do you want to change jobs?
Why were you fired?
Why were you laid-off?
Why did you quit your job?
Why did you resign?
What have you been doing since your last job?
Why have you been unemployed?
Why You Should Be Hired
Why should you be hired over the other applicants? What makes you the best candidate for the job? Here's when you'll have the opportunity to make a case for getting a job offer, and the chance to sell yourself to the interviewer.

Why should we hire you?
Why shouldn't we hire you?
What can you contribute to this company?
Questions About Salary
Some of the hardest questions to answer during a job interview are about compensation. Here's what you will be asked and examples of the best answers. Questions about salary can be tricky to answer, and, in some locations, employers aren't allowed to ask about your salary history.

What were your starting and final levels of compensation?
What are your salary expectations?
What are your salary requirements?
Why would you take a job for less money?
Qualifications Questions
The most important thing for interviewers to determine is whether you're qualified for the job. Here's what they will ask to find out. When responding, be specific.

What applicable experience do you have?
Are you overqualified for this job?
How did you impact the bottom line?
Interview questions about your abilities.
Sell me this pen.
Tell me about your educational background.
What can you do better for us than the other candidates for the job?
What part of the job will be the least challenging for you?
Which parts of this job are the most challenging for you?
What philosophy guides your work?
What strength will help you the most to succeed?
Why are you interested in taking a lower level job?
Questions About Your Work History
Is your work history stable, has it prepared you for the job you're interviewing for, and do you have any gaps in your employment history that the company should be concerned about? If not, prepare to answer questions about what you were doing when you weren't in the workforce.

Questions about your work history.
Questions about your resume.
What were your expectations for the job and to what extent were they met?
What were your responsibilities?
What major challenges and problems did you face? How did you handle them?
What have you learned from your mistakes?
What did you like or dislike about your previous job?
Which was most / least rewarding?
What was the biggest accomplishment/failure in this position?
Questions about job demotions.
How have you impacted worker safety?
Describe the gap in your employment history.

Tell me about yourself.
What is your greatest strength?
What is your greatest weakness?
What makes you unique?
Tell me about something that's not on your resume.
How will your greatest strength help you perform?
How do you handle failure?
How do you handle success?
Do you consider yourself successful? Why?
How do you handle stress and pressure?
How would you describe yourself?
Describe a typical work week.
Are you nice?
Are you willing to fail?
Are you willing to relocate?
Describe your work ethic.
Describe your work style.
Do you work well with other people?
Do you take work home with you?
How are you different from the competition?
How do you view yourself? Whom do you compare yourself to?
How does this job fit in with your career aspirations?
How many hours a week do you normally work?
How well do you assimilate into a new environment?
How would you adjust to working for a new company?
How would you describe the pace at which you work?
How would your co-workers describe your personality?
How would a professor describe you?
Is there anything else we should know about you?
What motivates you?
Are you a self-motivator?
What do you find are the most difficult decisions to make?
What has been the greatest disappointment in your life?
What are you passionate about?
What are your hobbies?
What are your pet peeves?
What is your dream job?
What is the worst thing you've gotten away with?
What won’t you miss about your last job?
Would you rather be liked or respected?
Why should I take a risk on you?
If you could relive the last ten years of your life, what would you do differently?

Job Interview Questions

It starts with Mind.

Y’all, college is freaking expensive. If you’re in high school, you might be seriously stressed out right now trying to figure out how you’re going to afford to go to school in a few months or years—or maybe you haven’t been thinking about it at all (I get it. I didn’t think about it much when I was in high school either. But I probably should’ve).

Or maybe you think that student loans are the only way you’ll be able pay for college. But guess what? That’s not true!

Don’t stress, you guys. There are plenty of ways to get free money to help you cash flow your education (Yep—I said free! That means you don’t have to pay it back.). I’ve got three words for you: Look. For. Scholarships.