Zoom or In-Person Interview

27BearDad

DD USCGA '27
Joined
Apr 5, 2022
Messages
337
My daughter is about to finalize scheduling for her first congressman nomination interview. She's applying to USMMA (and CGA, but obviously this interview is USMMA related). She is a recruited athlete at both and has an LOA from Merchant Marine.

Question - she has the choice of an in person interview or zoom interview. I realize in person may be a better option. However, it's on a Thursday at 10am and it's a 2.5 hour drive, so that would wipe out an entire school day. That's not a problem of course considering the big picture, but if they're offering zoom, is that "really" an acceptable option? Or is it a trick construed to see if she's too lazy to drive. lol. She'll likely have to miss a couple other days for Senators.

Thank you!
 
There aren’t any tricks. They are offering zoom as an alternative for a reason.

I would do in person if possible, but wouldn’t worry about zoom. If you decide on zoom, I would do mock zoom interviews to make sure she is comfortable with it and presents herself how she wants to be perceived.
 
There are several lengthy threads here on this topic. Use the search function above to find them.

My $0.02: Take the in-person opportunity. Everyone comes off better and interacts more naturally face to face. Zoom is increasingly common, but a poor substitute for in-person meetings.

Nominations can be life-changing things. Feels to me like they’re worth missing a day of school.
 
There are several lengthy threads here on this topic. Use the search function above to find them.

My $0.02: Take the in-person opportunity. Everyone comes off better and interacts more naturally face to face. Zoom is increasingly common, but a poor substitute for in-person meetings.

Nominations can be life-changing things. Feels to me like they’re worth missing a day of school.
DS had to miss a full day for 180 mile drive each way for an interview. He worked with the school and attendance office and the admin considered it school business as he was pursuing college. Not all schools will feel the same way.

I agree with @MidCakePa, if possible in person, well dressed, confident, firm handshake and eye contact can go a long way.
 
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