Interviews can be nerve-wracking but proper preparation is the key to acing any job or graduate school interview, including those at Loyola Marymount University (LMU). In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to wow your LMU interviewers and land an offer.
Overview of LMU Interviews
LMU interviews typically last 30 minutes to an hour and are structured interviews consisting of
- An introduction
- The main body where interview questions are asked
- A close
Interviewers will evaluate your qualifications experiences skills, and goals to determine if you’re a good fit for the role or program. It’s your job to make a strong first impression and convey why you’re an ideal candidate.
Interviews may be one-on-one or panel interviews with various members of the department. For graduate programs, you may meet with admissions counselors, faculty, and current students.
How to Prepare for an LMU Interview
Thorough preparation is critical for interview success. Here are some key things to do:
Research the Position, Department, and LMU
- Understand the role you’re applying for and how you would contribute.
- Learn about the department’s goals, initiatives, and values.
- Study LMU’s mission, programs, and strategic priorities.
Reflect on Your Goals and Qualifications
- Consider how your skills, experiences, and interests align with the position.
- Identify relevant accomplishments and success stories to share.
- Develop examples that highlight your top strengths and skills.
Practice Responding to Common Questions
- Review typical LMU interview questions (see examples below).
- Prepare stories and examples to use in behavioral interview responses.
- Rehearse your answers out loud until you can deliver them clearly and confidently.
Prepare Questions to Ask the Interviewer
- Research in advance so you can ask intelligent, thoughtful questions.
- Show your interest in and enthusiasm for LMU.
Example LMU Interview Questions
Here are some common interview questions asked at LMU:
General Interview Questions:
- Walk me through your resume.
- Why are you interested in this role/program at LMU?
- How do your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- What are your salary expectations?
Behavioral Interview Questions:
- Tell me about a time you faced a challenge on a team project. How did you handle it?
- Describe a situation where you had to adapt quickly to changing priorities. What was the outcome?
- Give an example of when you took initiative to improve a process or solve a problem.
Graduate Program Interview Questions:
- Why are you interested in this field of study?
- How will this program help you achieve your career goals?
- What relevant experiences do you have for this program?
- How would you contribute to the student community here?
Student Interview Questions:
- Why are you interested in LMU?
- How did you choose your major/minor?
- What extracurriculars or leadership roles have you taken on?
- Where do you see your career path taking you after graduation?
7 Tips for Acing Your LMU Interview
Follow these proven tips to maximize your chances of interview success at LMU:
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Practice common interview questions so your responses come across natural and confident.
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Highlight specific examples and accomplishments that relate directly to the position or program.
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Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in and fit for LMU.
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Explain how your skills and experiences make you the ideal candidate.
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Maintain good eye contact and body language. Sit up straight and avoid nervous gestures.
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Express enthusiasm for the role and share why you’re excited about LMU.
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Send prompt thank you notes to your interviewers reiterating your interest.
Proper preparation and practice can help take the stress out of any LMU interview. By researching the role and LMU, reflecting on your fit, and rehearsing responses, you’ll feel ready to impress interviewers and secure the offer. Use these tips to showcase your skills and make a lasting impression. With the right preparation, you can ace any LMU interview.
Questions about the career
- How did you become interested in this career?
- What does a typical workday look like? What do you do at your job?
- What are the good things, bad things, and frustrating things about this job?
- What entry-level jobs are available in this field?
- What experience is necessary to enter this career?
- What tips would you give someone who is getting ready to start this job?
Questions about the organization/industry
- How does your position fit within the organization/industry/career field?
- What is your work environment like?
- What is the economic forecast for this industry?
- What is unique to your organization? Who are your competitors?
Loyola Marymount University: Interview with the Admission Director, Fall 2020
FAQ
Does Loyola Marymount University have interviews?
What does Loyola Marymount look for in applicants?
How hard is it to get into Loyola Marymount?
What does Loyola Marymount University want you to do?
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school – they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Los Angeles area in general. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics.
How can I volunteer at Loyola Marymount University?
Volunteer in your hometown. Los Angeles has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Loyola Marymount University (LMU) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school – they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Los Angeles area in general.
How competitive is Loyola Marymount University?
During the 2018-19 admissions cycle, Loyola Marymount University had an acceptance rate of 44%. This means that for every 100 students who applied, 44 students were admitted, making Loyola Marymount’s admissions process competitive. Loyola Marymount University requires that all applicants submit either SAT or ACT scores.
Can you get into Loyola Marymount University (LMU)?
Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Loyola Marymount University (LMU) – it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness.
