Interviews
Think of an interview as your chance to bring your resume and experiences to life and show a real person who you are, what you’ve done, and why you’re the right fit. A strong interview doesn’t just repeat your resume, it turns your background into engaging stories, demonstrates professional communication, and helps you learn whether the opportunity is a great match for you. The resources below will help you prepare for different interview formats, anticipate question types, and use strategies like the STAR approach to answer behavioral questions with confidence.
- STAR Format Handout (link pending)
- Interview Questions Overview (link pending)
Common Interview Types
Interviews come in several formats, and preparing for each helps you feel confident and focused:
- Phone Interviews – Often an early screening step
- Video/Virtual Interviews – Expect professionalism and tech readiness
- One-on-One Interviews – A classic format focused on your qualifications
- Panel Interviews – Multiple interviewers ask questions; engage everyone.
- Behavioral Interviews – Questions about how you’ve handled situations (use STAR!)
- Situational/Case/Technical/Whiteboard Interviews – Problem-solving in real time
The STAR Approach
For behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time when…?”), use the STAR method to organize your answers:
- Situation: Set the context. Explain the situation you were in.
- Task: What was your goal? What tasks did you focus on?
- Action: What did you do? Focus on the actions you took.
- Result: What happened or what did you learn? Share measurable outcomes.
This structure helps you tell clear stories that highlight your skills and impact.
Pro tip: Tie your example back to the question they asked and the role for which you are applying.
If you are a current student or recent grad, you can access a more extensive list of resources and tools in the .
Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
Research the organization and role, prepare thoughtful questions to ask, review your resume stories, and plan your attire and logistics. Arrive early and have materials (notes, extra resume) ready.
Identify key experiences from work, leadership, groups or classes, and practice telling them using the STAR format. Thinking through your stories ahead of time helps you respond confidently.
Dress professionally and in a way that aligns with the organization’s culture. When in doubt, choose business attire. Looking polished can boost your confidence and demonstrate respect for the process. Check out this in the Handshake Resources Library for visual examples. Need a professional outfit? The CCEC clothing closet is here for you!
Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background, test your technology ahead of time, and maintain eye contact with the camera. Dress professionally and have notes nearby for reference. The CCEC has a space you can reserve for these types of interviews. Email us at CCEC_Info@whitman.edu.
Always have questions ready to show preparation and interest. Ask about team culture, how success is measured, next steps in the process, or what the interviewer enjoys most about working there.
Send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview. Thank the interviewer, reference something specific you discussed, and restate your enthusiasm for the role. A hand-written note can also go a long way. If you are interviewing in person, bring cards with you and write thoughtful notes at the end of the day. Then drop them off at the front desk.
A screening interview (often phone or video) is typically a first step to check basics. An on-site interview usually involves deeper conversations, multiple interviewers, and may include task-based or behavioral components.
Career Development Specialists, CCEC Career Coaches as well as Student Career Advisors (SCAs), and sometimes alumni mentors and/or faculty members can help you to prepare for your interview. Schedule an appointment with CCEC staff members via Handshake.