[RedS]

Help!
I think this board is one of the best resources for a pre-nursing student. So I thought I’d throw out a humble request.

I’ve been invited to interview at my first choice of schools for an accelerated entry-into-nursing masters program that would provide me with CNS training. I am extremely excited at the opportunity and want to make sure that I do everything possible to ensure I have the best shot at getting accepted into their competitive program (since they only accept 50 applicants per year).

Has anyone been through one of these academic interviews? I’ll be nervous enough with the process so I’d like to prepare as much as possible. I’d like to get some idea of what kinds of questions I should be ready to answer. So much is riding on it, and I hope they can get a sense of how dedicated and serious I am about pursuing this as a second career and that as an “older” student my lifetime experiences will be an asset.

If you have any suggestions or tips I would really appreciate it.

Thanks and Happy New Year to all!
R-

[Q.]

I've been through an academic interview upon admission into grad school, as well as writing a 2 page paper about my career accomplishments and goals. I do have to say that my experience with the academic interview wasn't nearly as formal or stressful as I'd imagined. Basically, I was asked why I wanted to go to grad school, why I felt I needed the degree, what I'd like to accomplish and where I feel I fit into the nursing profession. They were fairly simple questions to answer, but probably because I mulled over those very questions in my head for at least a year before even applying to schools.

Basically it seems that the school wants to determine how likely you are to succeed in the program, and if the program is a good fit for you and your educational/career goals.

I was nervous at first but about half-way through the interview, I was very relaxed and conversational and all went well. I'll be starting my third semester this January.

Good luck, and keep us posted.