How NOT to Answer GKS Interview Questions – Learn the Right Way!

Summary

In this video, Aigul provides expert advice on how to ace the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) interview. She walks through common mistakes candidates make and shares tips on answering the trickiest questions with confidence. Aigul emphasizes the importance of connecting your career goals to Korea's strengths, showcasing your unique value, demonstrating self-awareness, and offering clear plans for success. With practical examples, she helps viewers navigate questions about weaknesses, backup plans, and adapting to life in Korea. This guide is perfect for anyone preparing for the GKS interview and looking to make a lasting impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be prepared to answer questions about why you chose Korea, and connect it to your career goals, such as Korea's leadership in eco-friendly technology.
• 😀 When asked why they should choose you over other candidates, you should show a clear career vision and unique value based on your experience and skills.
• 😀 Avoid vague responses when discussing your weaknesses. Show self-awareness and discuss how you are actively improving, such as overcoming a fear of public speaking.
• 😀 Always have a backup plan in case you don't get the scholarship. Show determination by having alternative options, like pursuing other scholarships or a graduate program in your home country.
• 😀 If asked about adapting to life in Korea, highlight your problem-solving skills and past experiences adapting to new environments.
• 😀 When asked, 'Tell me about yourself,' keep the response relevant and focused on education, experience, and career goals, rather than personal details.
• 😀 Treat the 'Tell me about yourself' question as an elevator pitch—a short, clear, and compelling summary of why you're the right candidate.
• 😀 Always link your answers to your career goals, showing confidence and problem-solving skills, and avoid being vague in your responses.
• 😀 Practice providing real examples in your responses to demonstrate your skills and experiences.
• 😀 The key to handling tricky interview questions is to stay confident, keep your answers concise, and always align them with your long-term goals.

Q & A

Why is it important to connect Korea with your career goals during the GKS interview?

Connecting Korea with your career goals is important because it shows that you have a clear vision and purpose for pursuing the scholarship. It highlights that your interest in Korea goes beyond superficial factors like K-pop or culture, focusing on how Korea’s advancements align with your long-term career aspirations.

What should you avoid saying when asked why you want to study in Korea?

Avoid giving vague answers like 'I love K-pop' or 'Korean culture.' Instead, focus on specific aspects of Korean society or its innovations that align with your career goals, such as its leadership in eco-friendly technology or advancements in your field of study.

How should you answer the question 'Why should we choose you over other candidates?'

You should provide a clear career vision, demonstrating how your unique skills and experience make you a strong candidate. Explain how you can contribute to Korea’s innovation goals, emphasizing your background and expertise in your field.

What is a better way to respond to the question 'What is your biggest weakness?'

Instead of mentioning generic weaknesses like being a perfectionist, show self-awareness and focus on how you are actively working to overcome your weakness. For example, share specific steps you’ve taken to improve, such as practicing public speaking or learning new skills.

How should you answer if asked 'What will you do if you don't get the scholarship?'

You should express determination and present a backup plan. This could involve continuing your work in your field, seeking other scholarships, or applying to graduate programs that eventually allow you to study in Korea.

How can you show adaptability when asked 'What if you can't adapt to life in Korea?'

Demonstrate past experiences of adapting to new environments, such as living abroad or working in multicultural settings. Highlight your proactive approach, such as learning the local language, engaging with the culture, and seeking support from others.

What is the best way to respond to the common interview question 'Tell me about yourself?'

Focus on giving a brief, relevant summary of your education, experience, and career goals. Avoid a long life story or irrelevant information. Use it as an opportunity to highlight your professional background and how your goals align with the scholarship.

Why is it important to link your answers to career goals during the interview?

Linking your answers to career goals helps the interviewers understand your motivations and how the scholarship fits into your long-term plans. It shows that you are focused, have a clear vision, and are committed to making a meaningful impact in your field.

How can you demonstrate confidence and problem-solving skills in the interview?

You can demonstrate confidence by speaking clearly and directly, avoiding vague answers. Show problem-solving skills by sharing specific examples of how you’ve tackled challenges in the past, particularly in ways that are relevant to your field of study or future career.

What are some common mistakes candidates make when answering GKS interview questions?

Common mistakes include giving vague or generic answers, not linking responses to career goals, providing irrelevant personal information, or not showing self-awareness and determination. It's crucial to keep your answers focused, concise, and tailored to the scholarship’s objectives.