University and interview etiquette

Interviews and your first weeks at university are full of first impressions. Preparation and courtesy set you apart.

Interviews in person

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Know the route and parking in advance.
• Greet everyone politely, including reception staff; they are often asked for their impressions.
• Firm handshake (or a respectful verbal greeting), eye contact, wait to be invited to sit.
• Phone on silent and out of sight before you walk in.
• Sit upright, hands relaxed, and listen fully before answering.

Video interviews

• Log in 5 minutes early, having tested your camera, microphone and software beforehand.
• Camera at eye level; light your face from the front, not behind.
• Tidy, neutral background; silence notifications and close unneeded tabs.
• Look into the camera often: that is how you make 'eye contact'.
• Dress professionally, at least from the waist up and ideally fully; avoid busy patterns.

After the interview

• Send a short thank-you email within 24 hours.
• Mention something specific you discussed. Keep it to about 100 words.

At university

• Office hours are part of the course, and professors want students to come.
• Prepare questions ('I understand X, but how does Y work?'), introduce yourself with your name and course, take notes, and say thank you.
• Arrive at lectures on time; if you are late, enter quietly and sit near the door.
• Use your university email for all official contact.