nterview tips - LPDP Scholarship Program

Hi there, how are you? I'm currently feeling fantastic here in my 6th floor
college resident house room and suddenly just feeling like writing.
Before continuing on, I would like to remind you that I'm writing in English
NOT because my English is perfect (clearly this is not the case, lol), but I
would like to encourage all of us to learn communication skills seriously
and English is (whether we like it or not) one important part of global
communication skills. Mind you, this is very important as investing time to
learn English properly will simplify your life later on.
So, without further ado, I'm now here to give my long-delayed
experience/tips. This is not really a guideline because basically I'm just
sharing my experience, and what I thought I did or should have done.
Interview
The interview is, I suppose, similar as any company's interview. Basically,
they want to know whether we are the one their looking for. We should
meet their requirements, not only in academic skills but also interpersonal
skills and personality.
I was interviewed by 3 gentlemen, one of them is a psychologist. The
psychologist was supposed to be able to read my body language and my
thought path to generate an opinion whether I am the right person for this
scholarship or not. The other 2 gentlemen was professionals in the field of
education.
1. Know what they're looking for.
By that, I mean not only what is written in the 'requirement' section in
their website. You should know the core of the
scholarship/organisation itself. As far as I know, my scholarship
program (LPDP Scholarship - Ministry of Finance, Republic Indonesia) is
searching for "potential leader for the nation". Thus, in my opinion, the
interviewee should show signs of (at least) leadership (for instance,
proven with your organizational experience. Also, how you present
yourself matters; your body language, the way you speak, etc.), integrity,
vision, and awareness to national and international issue (whether it's in
the field of your expertise, or social/political issue). If you would like to
know more about what they're looking for, please check out their website
here.
2. Know what you have.
What can you offer? Why do they need you to be the next leader? Think
hard about your strong points. Think about what you did in the past that
adds to your skills and vision. Be proud of it, but at the same time, be
humble about it. Don't focus on your whole long curriculum vitae. Talk
about what makes a difference the most. In proper times, you have the
chance to elaborate what difference did you make on yourself and your

surroundings. Also, if your leadership experience involves doing

something for the society or for other people, it's perfect! It's like you
have leadership and social awareness at the same time. Even better if it
involves analyzing the problem, finding solution, trying to implement the
solution, and evaluation.
3. Know where you are going.
It's unlikely that they would give away a scholarship to someone who
doesn't know what to do with the knowledge that they are eager to pursue
now. You should know deep and broad about what you want to
learn. Have a strong root on why you chose that particular field and
university because there will be wind of questions that can blow you off if
you don't know better. It's very important to study the details of the
education program and compare between one university and another. You
can try to address the issues that can be solved using your knowledge.
This is why you have stronger point if you already have some years of
working experience.
4. Be convincing and be honest!
Believe in yourself and make them believe that you're the one they're
looking for. It's okay to be nervous, but be confident. Sit straight, look
them in the eyes as you speak and as they give you questions. It's good to
think that you're so prepared that you know everything about everything
but don't be snobby, maybe they know more than you. Sometimes they
actually will give you advice or good critique. Don't afraid to admit if
you made some mistakes.
5. Be ready.
Dress properly. Don't stress too much. Eat properly. Maintain your health.
It's always good to smile and be nice.
Oh, and this is important! Say your greetings before and thanks after the
interview. At least you show them that you are a civilized person.
Final words, I'm not saying these tips are 100% applicable or truly will
make you pass the interview process. This is just me sharing my
experience and thought. Good luck!
Cheers,
Aysha Mareta Karlina
PK-14 LPDP
(07-02-15)