Interviews in Cambridge and Oxford are always misunderstood as "extremely difficult" and even make interviewers feel nervous and scared. When the so-called problem appears, it will hardly surprise the interviewer, but the topic is quickly spread to online media and exaggerated as "the topic is strange and the interviewer is embarrassed". However, this is not the case.
In order to better prepare students for interviews at Cambridge University and Oxford University, Dr. Helen Swift from Oxford University and Dr. Sam from Cambridge University brought "tips" to everyone.
Q: "Can you give the interviewer some tips for preparing for the exam?"
Dr. Helen: We generally think that as long as students apply for UCAS, it means that they are fully prepared for the application, including reading a lot of relevant application materials and professional profiles. We are glad to see the students' honest and serious attitude towards the application.
For example, in English literature reading, we should look at the interviewer's independent thinking and opinions, not "conformity". We don't want the same views and ideas. In the article, if students can ask questions, we are happy to see them.
Dr Sam: Before the interview, make sure that you have studied enough professional knowledge. Students must know their personal statements like the back of their hands and be fully prepared for the interview.
Q: "What kind of interviewer will attract your attention?"
Dr. Sam: It depends largely on the requirements of the subjects. Are you sure you have a comprehensive understanding of the subject you are applying for? In the interview, in fact, a large part are professional and academic questions. They examine whether the interviewer has in-depth understanding and research on this major. All interview questions are designed to test students' academic performance.
Dr. Helen: The answer to our question may be very simple. We hope that the interviewer can fully concentrate on the research topic and have a good interaction with the examiner. The interview questions may be challenging, but we don't expect the interviewer 100% to answer correctly. What we want to see is that students have the potential to study problems.
Usually, the interviewer always appears very confident, and there will be Kan Kan in language expression, which may be an over-expression phenomenon. Students should remember that "an interview is not a performance."
Q: "What if I don't fully understand the question?"
Dr Helen: You must ask the examiner. If you can't understand the question, you must ask it clearly and explain your doubts to the examiner with some euphemistic words. Some problems may involve a wide range. In this case, you should answer the question according to your own thoughts and ideas. The interviewer may not fully understand the interview questions at first, but we (the examiner) will also discuss them with the candidates.
Q: "There may be a lot of reference opinions in the preparation stage. Who should we listen to? "
Dr. Helen: Yes, students may have a lot of guidance from "seniors" when preparing for the interview. If in doubt, directly ask the relevant departments and institutions of the university. As examiners, we are very happy to solve any interviewer's problems and provide suggestions and support. Our help is free.
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