Interviews — you can’t get away from them. Some universities in the Philippines are including interviews as part of their admissions requirements. If you want to get into, among others, the University of the Philippines, Technological University of the Philippines, or Enderun Colleges, you’ll have to pass an interview in addition to the entrance exams and other requirements. The advantage of going through that process is that it prepares you for future job interviews, helping you practice and hone your communication skills.
And one of the common college interview questions you’ll get is “why did you choose your course?”
What Your Answer to “Why Did You Choose This Course” Reveals
Interview questions are designed to highlight your strengths and weaknesses. In job interviews, hiring committees determine your desire and suitability for a position by evaluating the reasons you give for applying to their company. Admissions officers apply a similar logic to their interview questions.
Universities want to learn about your:
- Interests and goals
- Career path
- Personality
Your answer to choosing the course you picked also tells admissions officers about how much thought you put into your decision. If you picked nursing or computer science because your parents told you to, that will become evident in your response. The depth of your answer and your thought process provide sufficient background for college admissions officers to gauge your commitment. Your reason or reasons behind your choice could also reveal your level of intellectual and emotional maturity.
Why Did You Choose This Course: 5 Sample Answers
If you have your heart set on just one university, then giving a thoughtful answer is crucial to your admission. Consider the following sample answers as a starting point for coming up with your reasons for choosing a certain course:
1. Personal Interest
Talk about your interests and how they influence your decisions. If you can give a specific instance or experience that led you to that decision, relay that experience. A personal story always creates a memorable impression.
“I chose my course because the subject matter genuinely interests me. As a kid, I have always been fascinated by [insert subject], and pursuing this course allows me to delve deeper into its intricacies and complexities.”
2. Career Prospects
Although it’s understandable to use financial prospects as a reason for choosing a course, it’s not as compelling a reason as genuine engagement with the course. If your preferred course gives you a good foundation for getting into a top company in the Philippines, talk about that as well.
“I chose my course because I believe it offers promising career prospects. The coursework is rigorous and demanding, providing me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge, sharpen my critical thinking skills, and overcome academic hurdles. The skills and knowledge I gain from this program align well with the demands of the job market, increasing my chances of securing fulfilling employment in the future.”
3. Influence of Role Models
Your role models reveal your beliefs and could give admissions officers a glimpse into your future as a contributing member of society.
“I was inspired by influential figures in the field who have made significant contributions to [insert subject]. Their work motivated me to pursue this course and follow in their footsteps, aiming to make a positive impact myself. My course offers practical applications that resonate with real-world issues and challenges. I am drawn to the prospect of applying theoretical concepts to solve practical problems, contributing meaningfully to society and making a tangible difference.”
4. Personal Goals
Be honest and genuine about the milestones you want to achieve in your life. Talk about what motivates you and how your chosen course will help propel you toward your short- or long-term goals.
“Pursuing this course aligns with my personal goals and aspirations. It provides me with the necessary tools and knowledge to achieve my long-term objectives, whether they involve making a difference in my community, advancing in my career, or pursuing further academic endeavors. I appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of my course, which integrates various disciplines such as [insert disciplines]. This approach offers a holistic understanding of the subject matter, allowing me to explore diverse perspectives and broaden my intellectual horizons.”
5. Global Perspective
Instead of focusing on the long-term financial gain of going abroad to become an OFW, talk about the other benefits to a course that opens up opportunities for a global career.
“My course offers a global perspective, exposing me to diverse cultures, perspectives, and ideas. I value the opportunity to engage with students and faculty from around the world, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration on global issues.”
Leave a Good Impression
An admission into a good college is a crucial step in the right direction toward your future. You want to surround yourself with an academic environment that will fuel your interests and meet your goals. So it’s important to have thoughtful answers during your admissions interview.
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