Number of interviews: 3

Skype interview: No

Length of interviews: 15-20 minutes each

Interview 1:
I was asked generally about my EPQ topic (I mentioned it on my personal statement) which eased me into the questions. I was then given a graph (to do with birds and their egg-laying times) and asked to describe trends, form a hypothesis, and explain how I would test it experimentally. Although I found these questions quite challenging, I was guided through them and prompted to rethink in the right direction, which was reassuring. I was then shown a phylogenetic tree of viruses and asked questions on it, which I found really interesting. I could then ask a question of my own and the interview (sadly, as it was genuinely enjoyable) was over quickly.

Interview 2:
I was asked about a topic I had mentioned I found fascinating on my personal statement, which again made me feel relaxed. I then got quite an abstract question on genetics, using the room as an analogy for a cell, which was a lot to take in. But I went along with it, I was given time to think and rethink, and with some assistance I made progress with the questions posed. I was given two graphs on ecology and was asked to think why they might be the way they are (this was one of my favourite parts of the whole process).Throughout both of my first two interviews I was not expected to know about the topics discussed in any great detail- I was tested on applying general ideas in biology to new concepts, which made it feel more of a learning experience than a test of my academic ability! Again I was given the chance to ask a question of my own.

Interview 3:
I was first asked generally about my interests in biology and I referred to my personal statement as it was familiar information to me. I was given a variety of questions in this interview: about animals living in groups, population growth and rates (where I sketched a graph of size based on rates), and neurodegenerative diseases. I found these questions quite difficult but worked through them logically and never felt under too much pressure to know answers like you might be quizzed for in an A Level exam.

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I prepared by knowing my personal statement like the back of my hand. Although I am aware that not everyone gets asked about it, I was, and without that preparation my answers would have been nowhere near as convincing- important for a strong start in interview if you do get asked on it.

I looked up questions online/chose random concepts in biology to analyse and explain, and discussed them with other applicants. Although this may not be an opportunity for all applicants, I also talked through many questions aloud to myself, which was very helpful to order my response in a clear logical way. This was very useful, especially when I attempted to explain a graph, for example, as you can simply go back to first principles and build to a more complex conclusion.

The interviewers were even friendlier and welcoming than expected, and were not intimidating (even when correcting my mistakes...) I believe the interviewers are looking for passion and enthusiasm (I'm sure you've heard it all before). By showing it in a considerate answer you can make a great impression.