How to Ace Your Citadel Interview: The Top 30 Questions and Answers

Getting an interview at The Citadel is a significant accomplishment. As one of the most prestigious military colleges in the country, the admissions process is highly competitive If you’ve made it to the interview stage, congratulations! Now it’s time to prepare to really stand out and prove you have what it takes to be a Citadel cadet

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insider tips and strategies to help you nail the most common Citadel interview questions. With sample winning answers for questions on leadership, academics, adversity and more, you’ll be ready to show the selection committee why you’re a strong match for The Citadel experience.

Let’s get started

Leadership Skills

1. Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership skills.

In high school, I was the captain of my football team during my senior year. When our coach unexpectedly left mid-season, team morale was low and we were struggling. I scheduled extra practices and delivered motivational speeches before each game to unite the team. We ended up with our best season record, which showed my ability to lead during adversity.

2. Describe a challenging leadership scenario and how you handled it.

As shift manager at a restaurant, I had to step in when the head chef quit unexpectedly. I quickly assessed our staff skills and reorganized roles to cover his responsibilities. I also jumped in to help prep food and guide junior chefs. By communicating clearly and leading by example, we continued operations seamlessly despite being short-staffed.

3. How would you develop trust and credibility as a leader at The Citadel?

I would earn trust by holding myself to the highest ethical standards, taking accountability for my actions and maintaining transparency with my team. Credibility would come from proving my capabilities, delivering on promises and shouldering responsibility alongside my cadets. My aim would be to lead by example at every step.

4. How do you motivate peers/colleagues to accomplish goals?

I break larger goals into smaller milestones, then recognize achievements along the way. Emphasizing how their skills are critical to the mission builds confidence. During stressful periods, I communicate frequently to keep the team motivated. I also connect goals to deeper purpose and values to inspire continuous progress.

5. What is your leadership style and how has it evolved over time?

Early on as captain of my soccer team, I was quite directive. As I gained experience, I shifted towards a more collaborative style, actively seeking input from my team and empowering them to take initiative. However, I can still be directive when timelines are tight. I’ve learned to flex my style to fit the situation and needs of my team.

Problem-Solving Skills

6. Tell me about a time you solved a difficult problem.

When I noticed a classmate struggling academically in my physics class, I took the initiative to help. I identified that he was having trouble with the mathematical concepts, not the physics ideas themselves. I took extra time to explain the formulas and helped him with additional practice problems until his grades improved.

7. Describe a situation where you had to think critically/creatively to tackle a challenge.

During a chemistry experiment, our group realized one component was missing. After brainstorming, I had the idea to substitute a different chemical that would still react properly with the other elements. Our professor commended this creative approach, and I learned the importance of thinking outside the box even in science.

8. Walk me through how you would solve an issue with a team member not pulling their weight on a group project.

First, I would speak to them one-on-one to understand if there are any roadblocks or how I can better support them. If the issue persists, I would discreetly raise the concern with a supervisor to determine the next best steps, while maintaining the individual’s privacy. My focus would be on how to empower the struggling team member to contribute.

9. How would you approach making an important business decision?

I would clearly define the issue, goals and constraints. Then I would gather relevant data, outlining pros and cons for each option. Consulting experts helps identify potential risks and biases I may have overlooked. Once a decision is made, I would develop a concrete plan for execution and metrics to measure progress and results.

10. Describe a time you failed or made a mistake. What did you learn?

In middle school, I waited until the last minute to start a history project and wasn’t able to complete it on time. I had to get an extension from my teacher. From this, I learned the importance of managing my time wisely and not procrastinating on big assignments. It taught me to break large projects into smaller tasks and set interim deadlines for myself.

Teamwork & Collaboration

11. Tell me about a time you collaborated successfully in a team.

For a hackathon project in high school, I was assigned to a team of students I didn’t know well. I introduced myself and took time to understand everyone’s strengths and interests. By dividing the work based on each person’s skills, we were able to develop a website prototype that won first place. It taught me the power of synergizing diverse perspectives.

12. Describe a situation where you had to coordinate or negotiate with others to accomplish a goal.

As student council vice-president, I had to coordinate with over 20 clubs to organize a school fair. Initial meetings were challenging, with each club having different goals. I identified shared objectives and brought everyone together to map out an integrated plan leveraging the strengths of each group. The result was our most successful event ever.

13. Tell me about a time you had to work closely with someone you didn’t see eye-to-eye with. How did you overcome challenges?

I was paired with a classmate who had a very direct communication style which I initially found abrasive. However, I made an effort to understand his perspective. When tensions arose, I acknowledged the differences in our working styles and suggested we each make small adjustments to improve collaboration. Over time, we learned from each other’s strengths.

14. How would you build relationships with upperclassmen as a new cadet at The Citadel?

I would demonstrate humility, respect and a willingness to learn from their experience. Finding common ground through shared interests or activities can also facilitate connections. I believe building rapport requires sincerely listening to their stories and offering help when I can. Even small gestures like greeting upperclassmen and introducing myself further bonds.

15. If you were struggling to collaborate with a team member, what strategies would you use to attempt to resolve the issues?

I would schedule a 1:1 meeting focused on improving our working dynamic by openly discussing challenges and finding solutions. Identifying common interests or strengths between us often revealed opportunities for synergy. I would also consult others who have worked with this person for insights. Patience and actively listening are key, but escalating to leadership is an option if issues persist.

Fit For The Citadel Experience

16. Why do you want to attend The Citadel specifically?

The Citadel’s mission to develop principled leaders aligns with my values. The school’s reputation for academic rigor in a military environment will push me to grow mentally, physically and ethically. I’m drawn to the close-knit community and opportunity to be part of traditions that build camaraderie and distinction. Most of all, I want to leverage the skills and mindset I develop here to make a positive impact.

17. What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is about inspiring others towards a common vision through empathy, integrity and service. True leaders uplift those around them and lead by empowering others. I hope to exemplify this by putting our team’s goals first, creating an inclusive culture, developing myself continuously, and maintaining ethical standards.

18. How will you embrace The Citadel’s strict military lifestyle and training?

I welcome the opportunity to be challenged and shaped by The Citadel’s military training. My passion towards developing as a principled leader with strong character and grit will drive my ability to adhere to the college’s rigorous system. I am fully committed to upholding the highest standards expected of a Citadel cadet.

19. The Citadel environment requires strong time management skills. How do you currently manage your time effectively?

Between academics, sports and volunteer work, I’ve learned solid time management strategies. I plan my week in advance and break down large assignments. My daily to-do list prioritizes urgent tasks. I avoid distractions by silencing phone notifications and finding quiet study spots. Managing time well now will prepare me for The Citadel’s fast-paced schedule.

20. How will you handle challenging situations at The Citadel that may be outside your comfort zone?

By keeping the end goal in mind and embracing a growth mindset. I know excelling at The Citadel will require perseverance through adversity. When faced with discomfort, I will focus on learning from the situation to develop resilience, character and mental toughness. Hardships ultimately create opportunity for self-improvement if you maintain the right perspective.

Quick Hitters

21. How did you hear about The Citadel?

My high school guidance counselor first sparked my interest in The Citadel. I also have family friends who are alumni and spoke highly of their experience. After visiting