University interviews - what to expect?

milliemonster

I am a qualified nurse but due to being out of the NHS for the last 5 yrs (I left to be a business manager in industry) I need to do a short return to practice course to re register to work as a nurse again.

I have applied to 2 of the universities in my area, one of which has requested references from my referees, I am taking this is a good sign that I will be offered an interview for the course which from the application form are going to be held on 5th August. The other uni is still negotiating with the SHA on whether the course can be funded or not, so may not go ahead.

If I get a place on the course, I will have to hand my notice in at work by 13th at the latest in order to have enough time to work my notice before starting the course (on 13th Sept), my current employer understandably will not give me any time to do this course and will not allow me to reduce my hours either so I have no alternative but to give up my job to do this course, how soon do uni's let you know whether you have a place following interviewing?

It is 20 years since I last had an interview at uni and I have no idea what to expect, or what they may ask, I want to prepare as much as possible as I am desperate for a place so any advice would be great.

My long term plan is to start full time uni in Sept 2011, whilst working as a nurse occasionally to support myself through full time uni for 2 years.

Any advice would be very much appreciated

MrsManda

Every university/course will have their own way of interviewing and be looking for different things. I had three interviews at three different universities for the same degree subject. The only questions which were standard across all three interviews were: why I wanted to do the degree, I did I want to do it now (I'm a mature student) and why did I apply to that university.

To prepare, make sure you know how to answer questions about why you've applied and read through the course description so you can talk about the course. Also reread your personal statement to remind yourself about what you've said in your application. Be enthusiastic

Of my three interviews, one university told me at the end of the interview that they were offering me a place, one university sent me an email that evening, and one took two weeks to give me their reply.

Do you mean start FT 2010 or 2011?
Good luck with your applications/interviews, I was a nervous wreck whilst waiting to hear but it's worth it.