Interviewing Questions and Answers | Exchange programs | FLEX, YES, CBYE

Summary

In this video, Monica, an exchange student in the United States, shares essential tips for aspiring exchange students preparing for interviews. She covers common questions, the qualities exchange programs seek, and how to showcase them. Monica advises on answering personal, situational, and goal-oriented questions, emphasizing the importance of being flexible, open-minded, communicative, curious, and positive. Her insights aim to help viewers ace their interviews and prepare for a rewarding exchange experience.

Takeaways

• 📢 Be prepared to answer questions about yourself, focusing on positive traits and experiences.
• 🌟 Highlight your personal goals for going on exchange, such as language improvement or cultural exploration.
• 🎓 Emphasize what you hope to achieve as an exchange student, including making a difference upon returning home.
• 🏆 Reflect on your biggest personal achievement and be ready to explain why it's significant to you.
• 🤔 Anticipate situational questions about host family scenarios and show your problem-solving skills.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability, as you'll be living with new people and experiencing different routines.
• 🌐 Show open-mindedness and a willingness to embrace diversity in your host country.
• 🗣️ Use your communicative nature to make friends and build international relationships.
• 🔍 Exhibit curiosity about the program and the world, showing a desire to explore and learn.
• 😃 Maintain a positive attitude throughout the interview and your exchange experience, focusing on the benefits and opportunities.

Q & A

What is the first question typically asked in an exchange student interview?

The first question after greeting is usually 'Tell me a little bit about yourself', which is important as it may lead to further questions based on the candidate's response.

Why is the question 'Tell me a little bit about yourself' significant?

This question is significant because it sets the tone for the interview and can generate follow-up questions based on the candidate's initial self-description.

What should a candidate highlight when asked why they are interested in going on exchange?

A candidate should highlight key points or personal goals such as improving language skills, exploring the world, experiencing other cultures, traditions, and nationalities.

How should a candidate answer the question about what they want to achieve as an exchange student?

A candidate should focus on personal goals like improving language skills, making a difference in their home country by learning how things work in other countries, and returning with innovative solutions.

What does the question 'What do you consider your biggest achievement?' aim to reveal about a candidate?

This question aims to reveal personal pride points and significant accomplishments from the candidate's past, which they consider as major achievements.

Why are situational questions about host family scenarios important in an exchange student interview?

Situational questions about host family scenarios are important to assess how a candidate would handle real-life situations, showcasing their adaptability, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

What qualities does an exchange program look for in candidates, according to Monica?

Exchange programs look for qualities such as flexibility, adoptability, open-mindedness, communicative nature, curiosity, and positivity in candidates.

Why is flexibility important for an exchange student?

Flexibility is important because students need to adapt to new environments, routines, and customs quickly when living with host families they have never met before.

How does being open-minded help an exchange student in their experience?

Being open-minded helps an exchange student by preventing them from judging others and allows them to embrace diversity, which is crucial for a positive and enriching cultural exchange experience.

What role does a candidate's communicative nature play during their exchange?

A communicative nature is essential for making friends, creating international relations, and having a fulfilling exchange experience, as it encourages the student to take initiative in social interactions.

Why should an exchange student be curious about their host country?

An exchange student should be curious to explore the world, experience new cultures, and make the most of their limited time abroad, ensuring they gain valuable experiences and insights.

How can a candidate demonstrate positivity during their interview?

A candidate can demonstrate positivity by smiling, showing enthusiasm, and focusing on the positive aspects of their experiences and goals, even when discussing potential challenges.