You’ve just finished your virtual college interview—congratulations! Whether you’re applying to a traditional university or considering an online community college, nailing the interview is a significant step forward. But what comes next? You might think the hard part is over, but what you do after the interview can be just as important as the interview itself. There are some key steps you should take to leave a lasting impression and keep your application on the right track.
Collect Contact Information Before You Sign Off
Before you even close out of your Zoom or Skype session, make sure you have the interviewer’s contact information. This might seem like a minor detail, but it’s crucial. Having their email address or LinkedIn profile ensures that you can follow up appropriately. If the interviewer doesn’t offer this information at the end of your conversation, don’t be shy—politely ask for it. Most interviewers will appreciate your initiative and professionalism.
Having this contact information not only allows you to send a thank-you note (more on that in a minute) but also keeps the door open for any follow-up questions or additional information you might want to provide later on.
Send a Thank-You Email Within 24 Hours
One of the most important things you can do after your virtual interview is to send a thank-you email. It’s best to do this within 24 hours while the conversation is still fresh in both your mind and the interviewer’s. This isn’t just about good manners—it’s also a chance to reinforce your interest in the school and remind the interviewer of the highlights of your discussion.
When writing your thank-you email, be specific. Mention something from the interview that stood out to you, whether it was a piece of advice, a shared interest, or a particular program at the school that excites you. This shows that you were engaged during the conversation and that you’re genuinely interested in what the school has to offer.
Reflect on the Interview Experience
After your interview, take some time to reflect on how it went. What went well? What could have gone better? This self-reflection is valuable not only for future interviews but also for your overall college application process. Maybe there were questions you struggled with or moments where you felt particularly confident—either way, understanding these aspects can help you improve for next time.
This reflection can also guide your follow-up actions. For example, if there was a question you didn’t answer as thoroughly as you’d like, you could briefly address it in your thank-you email. This shows that you’re thoughtful and willing to go the extra mile to present yourself well.
Follow Up on Any Promises Made
During the interview, you might have mentioned additional materials you’d send, like a portfolio, a writing sample, or extra information about a project you discussed. If you did, make sure to follow through on these promises promptly. Sending these materials quickly shows that you’re organized, responsible, and serious about your application.
Even if you didn’t promise any extra materials, consider whether there’s anything else you can provide that would enhance your application. Maybe the interviewer mentioned a particular program or opportunity that you’re especially excited about—if so, you could send a follow-up email expanding on how your experiences make you a great fit for that program.
Connect on LinkedIn or Other Professional Networks
If your interviewer is on LinkedIn, it’s a good idea to connect with them there. This is particularly relevant if you’re applying to an online community college, where networking can play a significant role in your future career opportunities. When sending a connection request, include a personalized note mentioning your interview and expressing your appreciation for their time.
Connecting on LinkedIn not only helps keep you in the interviewer’s mind but also expands your professional network, which can be valuable later on, whether or not you end up attending that particular school. Plus, it’s another way to demonstrate your professionalism and eagerness to engage with the school community.
Prepare for the Next Steps in the Application Process
After the interview, it’s important to keep the momentum going. Review the next steps in your application process, whether that’s submitting additional materials, preparing for another interview, or simply waiting for a decision. Stay organized and keep track of any deadlines or requirements so that nothing slips through the cracks.
This is also a good time to continue researching the school, especially if you’re still weighing your options. The more informed you are, the better prepared you’ll be to make a decision when the time comes. If your interview gave you a new perspective or raised new questions, dive deeper into those areas.
Stay in Touch, But Don’t Overdo It
It’s important to strike a balance between staying in touch with your interviewer and not overwhelming them with too many messages. After your thank-you email, it’s generally best to wait until there’s something new to report—like an updated resume, a new achievement, or a significant change in your application status—before reaching out again.
If you do need to follow up for any reason, keep your messages polite, concise, and relevant. Remember, the goal is to maintain a positive relationship with the school, so being respectful of the interviewer’s time is key.
Conclusion: Seal the Deal with Thoughtful Actions
What you do after your virtual college interview can have a big impact on how you’re remembered by the admissions team. By collecting contact information, sending a prompt and personalized thank-you email, reflecting on your interview, and following up appropriately, you demonstrate your professionalism and genuine interest in the school. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional university or an online community college, these actions can help you stand out in a competitive application process. So, don’t just sit back and wait after the interview—take these steps to seal the deal and move one step closer to your college goals.
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