Procedures

Below is a schedule of what you should expect on the day of your interview. You will already have submitted your portfolio for evaluation. Interviewers will have viewed it before you arrive.

BEFORE

Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled interview time (earlier if you are not sure of the location of your interview). Be sure to dress appropriately (see dress code page) and wait quietly for your name to be called. Be sure you are NOT chewing gum.

**Under no circumstances should you enter the room without being invited.

INTRODUCTIONS  

One panelist will meet you at the door. Shake hands and introduce yourself to each panel member. Be sure to make eye contact. Do not sit down until you are directed to do so. 

Usually, panel members will ask an “ice breaker” question, like one of the following:

• Why don’t you tell us something about yourself as a student?

• What do you like best about school and why?

• What classes in school come easiest for you?

• What are some of the tasks at school that you find difficult?

INTERVIEW

You will be asked to explain some of your work in your portfolio, talk about your goals for the future, and reveal what VAPA has enabled you to do. Be ready for these kinds of questions by reviewing the Sample Interview Questions.

If you find long silences in the conversation, you may want to help the interviewers by pointing out some of your best pieces in the portfolio or explaining some of your favorite extracurricular activities.

CONCLUSION 

The team will let you know when the interview is over by saying something like, “I think that’s all we have to ask you today. Thank you. It’s been a pleasure meeting you.”

Thank the team for allowing you to share your work by saying something like, "I appreciate you taking the time to be a part of this process."

Shake hands with each member.

Class of 2026 Exit Interview will take place on May 1st from 2-3:30 PM