Ace the Interview

Ready to nail your next interview? Whether it’s your first Zoom call from your dorm or a final-round panel with a top employer, the Bearcat Promise Career Studio has your back. This guide, tailored for Bearcats, will walk you through every step of the interview process with practical tips, co-op-inspired examples, and UC resources to boost your confidence.

Why Interviews Matter

Interviews are your chance to show employers why you’re the perfect fit. They are also an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and decide if you want to work there. For UC students, this means highlighting your co-op experience, classroom projects, and Bearcat determination. Whether you’re interviewing for a co-op or a full-time role, preparation is key to standing out.

Before the Interview: Prep Like a Pro

Get ready to impress with these actionable steps:

  • Check the employer’s website, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor for their mission, recent news, and culture.
  • Bonus for Bearcats: Search UC’s alumni network on LinkedIn to connect with grads at the company.
  • Example: Applying to GE Aviation? Mention how your co-op in aerospace engineering aligns with their innovation goals.
  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers, especially for behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you solved a problem.”
  • Co-op Tip: Draw from your co-op experiences to showcase real-world skills.
  • Download our UC Interview Prep Guide (insert-link) for sample questions and STAR templates. [Here is a link to the guide I created in Canva – once we work through any changes, I’ll make sure it’s accessible and fits on one sheet of paper]
  • Behavioral: Focus on past experiences (e.g., “How did you handle a team conflict on your co-op?”).
  • Technical: Common in engineering or IT—review key concepts from your UC courses or co-op projects.
  • Panel/Group: Prep for multiple interviewers, often used by local employers like Kroger.
  • AI-Driven: Some companies use platforms like HireVue. Practice recording clear, concise responses. 
  • Business professional for in-person or virtual interviews (think blazer, dress shirt, or blouse).
  • Pro Tip: UC’s Career Closet offers free professional attire—stop by the Bearcat Promise Career Studio (TUC 310) during walk-in hours for a limited selection of items (add link). Find a wider range of professional attire at the Bearcats Pantry & Resource Center located in Stratford Heights, Building 16, Room 101 (2634 Stratford Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220). (add link).

During the Interview: Shine Bright

You’ve prepped—now it’s time to show what makes you a Bearcat standout.

  • Smile, make eye contact (or look at the camera for virtual interviews), and let your personality shine.
  • Share how your UC experiences (co-op, projects, student leadership or volunteer roles) make you unique.
  • For Engineering, IT, Business, and Design students: Highlight technical skills from your co-op or coursework.
  • For Nursing, Allied Health Sciences and Medical students: Discuss patient care from clinical rotations at UC Health or other care facilities.
  • For students in the CECH School of Education or CCM Music Education programs: Draw on your student teaching, practicum, or volunteer experiences to provide examples of your skills in action.
  • For A&S students: Showcase teamwork from group projects, co-ops, student organizations, and volunteer experiences.
  • Show interest with questions like: “What does success look like in this role?” or “How does [company] support growth for new hires?”
  • Co-op Connection: Ask how the role builds on skills you gained during your UC co-op.
  • Don’t know an answer? Say, “That’s a great question—I’d love to think about it and get back to you.”
  • Sensing bias?  Stay professional and pivot to your strengths, like resilience as a first-generation student.

After the Interview: Seal the Deal

Wrap up strong to leave a lasting impression.

  • Within 24 hours, email your interviewer(s) to thank them and restate your enthusiasm.
  • Sample: “Dear [Interviewer]: Thank you for discussing the [role] at [company]. I’m excited about how my co-op experience at [company] aligns with your team’s goals. Please let me know if you need more information.” 
  • No response after a week? Send a polite follow-up: “Dear [Interviewer]: I’m checking in on the status of the [role]—I remain very interested and happy to provide additional details.”
  • Jot down what went well and what you’d tweak for next time. Use BigInterview (add link) or book an appointment with a Career Coach to practice.
  • Remember, every interview is valuable, regardless of how you feel about your performance. Each experience offers an opportunity for learning and growth.

UC-Specific Resources

As a Bearcat, you have access to top-notch career tools:

  • Bearcat Promise Career Studio (TUC 310): Book mock interviews, resume reviews, or attend a helpful workshop. Visit Handshake to book appointments or view upcoming workshops.
  • Handshake: Find jobs, internships, and employer events tailored for UC students (log in with your UC username and password).
  • BigInterview: Practice interviewing and get resume feedback with this online tool (log in with your UC username and password).
  • UC Alumni Network: Connect with Bearcat grads on LinkedIn for insider tips.
  • Need professional attire for career fairs or interviews? UC students can access free clothing options through these resources:
    • Bearcat Promise Career Studio: Stop by during walk-in hours for a limited selection of free professional clothing. Check hours at [add link to walk-in hours].
    • Bearcats Pantry & Resource Center Career Closet: Find a wider range of professional attire at Stratford Heights, Building 16, Room 101 (2634 Stratford Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220). It’s on the first floor, right of the mail room. More info at uc.edu/campus-life/bearcats-pantry.html.
    • UC Clermont Career Closet: UC Clermont students can access professional clothing through their dedicated Career Closet. Visit ucclermont.edu/students/careers/career-closet.html for details.

 

Virtual Interview Tips

With many interviews now online, here’s how to stand out from your dorm or apartment:

  • Set the Scene: Use good lighting (face a window or use a lamp) and a tidy, professional background.
  • Tech Check: Test your mic, camera, and Wi-Fi 30 minutes before. Have a backup plan (e.g., phone hotspot).
  • Engage the Camera: Look at the webcam, not the screen, to mimic eye contact.
  • Practice: Record a mock interview on Zoom to check your pacing and body language.

Take the Next Step

Ready to crush your interview? Start with these actions:

  • Practice your interview skills using BigInterview.
  • Download the UC Interview Prep Guide (insert-link) for templates and tips.
  • Take our “What’s Your Interview Style?” Quiz (insert-link) to boost your confidence. [Here’s the link to the quiz I created in Canva – please share any changes needed]
  • Join Career Studio’s next workshop to practice with peers. Check Handshake for dates and times. 

Got questions? Visit the Career Studio in TUC 310 during walk-in hours (add link) or book an appointment (add link) to meet with a career coach. Let’s get you hired, Bearcat.