Nursing School Interview... Help !!!

RedSox33RN · Jan 28, 2005

I got a file together before my interview, that contained all of my transcripts, NLN scores, and course descriptions (so they will know if credits will transfer). They may have a lot of that stuff already, but stuff gets lost and it's good to have it.

Be sure to show up 10 min early or so, just so you can find the office and use the ladies room if you need to. Dress nicely also. I had my interviews in the winter, so I didn't wear any dresses, but did wear very nice slacks and dressy tops, with appropriate jewelry.

The most important thing, I think, is to SELL them on you. Make sure you tell them why you would be an asset to their program. Make them want you! Research the program beforehand, so you know as much as you can about it. Tell them why it would be a good match. Do they teach a certain theory of nursing? Is it a religious college/program? Be sure to tell them about any awards you may have received in HS (if you are coming from HS) or in an old college. I was asked to join Phi Theta Kappa in my previous school because of my grades, and I was made sure they knew this. Colleges want to know that YOU are going to fit in. If you can show them you will, along with WHY you want to become a nurse, I think that is 1/2 the battle right there.

Also, I know many don't, but I followed up my interview a couple days later with a letter to my interviewer, telling them how much I enjoyed meeting them, hearing about the program from them, and seeing the campus, etc. Since spots are very tight, I even said in all of my letters (LOL) that their college was my first choice and how much the college had to offer, which was a wonderful match to my needs.

Also, be sure to ask, if they are interviewing for only a certain number of spots, when they hope to make their decision, and if you will be notified by phone or letter. This saves a LOT of worrying and running to the mailbox!

Best of luck!

Ginyer · Jan 28, 2005

My school doesn't require an interview but a friend of mine had to do an interview for a nursing school she applied to and was not accepted...reason being she took too long to answer their questions in the interview. They told her she was not thinking quick enough. There were some really silly questions too that threw her pretty offguard. Just be prepared for anything and don't let them get you flustered. You'll do fine...good luck!

Ginyer

nir05 · Jan 28, 2005

Thank you guys so much for the great advises! What were some of the questions you and were asked? That's what I'm nervous about!

RedSox33RN · Jan 29, 2005

First, you will be asked why you want to be a nurse. I was also asked what I wanted to do with a nursing degree - go on to get my BSN, what area did I want to work in, how would I help the community (I know the schools are BIG into community service for SN's around here. We are required to do community service nursing projects.).

In addition, fair or legal or not, some people are asked if they have children, and how would school work into the schedule of caring for a family. I was not specifically asked, but volunteered that I had wonderful extended family to help out, and that I had delayed nursing school until my children were old enough to be self-sufficient, and the older ones could babysit the younger.

I was also asked what I thought my weaknesses were in terms of schooling (science, math, etc.) and what were my strengths. Be sure to play up your strengths (again, like selling them on YOU), but don't hide your weaknesses. If you are weak in math, say so, but also tell them what you do to overcome it (an extra math class, go to tutoring, etc.). We all have weaknesses, so don't say "nothing" if asked.

Be sure to have questions for them. Interviewers like being asked things - stuff not readily available in their nursing literature. They love to talk about their program. Maybe ask how many traditional students there are compared to non-traditional, where clinicals are held, is there a Student Nurse Association, nursing study groups - anything to make it clear you are interested in more than just going to class, that you really want to be a part of the college.

I'm sure others can think of additional questions you may be asked. But be sure to practice your answers aloud!

UNFBSN2B · Feb 17, 2005

Hi,
I finally received a call today from the Nursing School that I applied to and they want me to come in for an interview! I am so happy and nervous at the same time! I have never had a formal interview before and would really appreciate any advise from people who have been to a Nursing school interview. My interview is scheduled for FEB. 10th, so I do have some time to prepare. By the way, the school that I have applied to is located in South FL.
Thank You in advance! :)

Congratulations. I'm glad you asked this question, because the replies help me as well. I recieved my interview invitation last week from University of North Florida. (510 applicants/48 positions). I'm stunned, AND excited!!