Tuesday, April 9, 2013
SUTD Architecture Interview
Okay so about a week ago I attended the SUTD (Singapore University of Technology and Design) interview and can I just say it was probably one of the most fun things I have ever done in my life.
One thing that I feel JCs or schools really prep us for is how to go for an interview. So this was truly a first proper interview that I went to and you just have to fend for yourself I guess. (It actually sounds a lot scarier than it actually is so don't worry too much)
So for anyone who is going or plans to go for an SUTD interview in the future(I don't blame you, it's a rising university in Singapore) here's a rough guide which I hope will help you. First I'll go through the sequence of events and then some helpful tips along the way which I thought really helped. (Super big THANK YOU to the friendly admin)
Okay, here we go.
Sequence of Events:
1. You'll have to register at the Visitor's centre. It's situated quite prominently so don't worry about not being able to spot it. Seriously make time to find SUTD though cause it's a really long walk in. Alternatively if you're applying and the campus has shifted to Changi at that point....Well, good luck.
2. Register with all your documents as the admin will be checking them. Feel free to bombard them with questions cause as far as I know, they seem to have no qualms answering them.
3. You'll then sit at the visitor's centre and wait for your interview timeslot. I highly recommend going to the toilet at this point and fixing any unruly hair or smudged makeup and of course (heaven forbid) any stains on your shirt or skirt. While sitting there, try to make friends with the others who are waiting there as well. Chances are they'll be your interview buddies so try not to be awkward with them before you even enter the main interview. Be the first one to smile and say hi - you will really find yourself having more confidence after that. And of course, with what limited time you have, get to know the other person. (It REALLY helps to take your mind off things)
4. After chatting a while, the admin would bring you to another holding room (for my interview venue anyway) Here, he or she will give you main tips on what to do and say in the room. You should have your portfolio or coursework in a file in your hand by now. So just sit and talk to the admin for any last minute helpers.
5. Finally, entering the main room. In my case it was just me and another guy with 2 professors. The previous group had three interviewees though so I guess it varies. Do the general manners thing - greet, smile and sit down GRACEFULLY. Place your portfolio on the table should you have one (The profs will ask to see it if you weave it carefully into one of your answers. Or if they're curious about it. That works too.)
Questions I must say weren't as tough to answer as I thought. They're not exactly abstract but it'll be good if you can show that you had a passion for your course from the very start. (Like you did it from young or that you do things related to it even though you are not graded for it, etc) The discussion is really light-hearted and because the group is so small, you'll definitely get a chance to speak - so no worries there. One thing I must warn all of you is to not only silent your phone in the interview but cut off all vibrations as well. I kind of forgot how loud a buzzing phone could be in a room with 3 others. Yeah, it was a little awkward. Hope it doesn't happen to you, though.
Other than that just try to prove to them why you would be an ideal student for that course. At the end they'll ask you if you have any questions about the school. This is a good time for you to ask about assessment styles, projects, housing, teaching styles. Anything really, to show that you truly are considering it already. I remember just blanking out cause I only went in expecting to get asked questions. Thank goodness my interview buddy saved me by asking the first question (whew!)
Lastly, just be really comfortable. The more anxious you are the more your thought sequence gets screwed up so find something to calm yourself. Personally, whenever I'm freaking out, I tend to look at the lights in an attempt to gather my thoughts. It's worked for me so far.
So yeah after the end just thank your interviewer and run far away from that place. You and the other interviewee will have a good time laughing outside about what just happened and the admin would just come out to give you some last words. (Good luck, hope to see you, etc) THANK the admin. They were there on the whole journey with you. Then take a nice stroll with your other interviewee to find your own way home and just wait for their call. For the first interview I've ever experienced, I must say it's not as bad as everyone says it is.
Of course, dress well. They don't give you a dress code but the best would be smart casual. Guys tended to be more formally dressed than the girls but main point: no shorts or slippers. Look sharp-ish.
And of course, through the whole thing, just have fun. Well I hope this helps and good luck.
Edit: Yes, I actually got accepted into the school but chose to pursue my education at another school instead. Still hands-down one of my best interview experiences though.
Mona ♥
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
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