10 Minute MOC Interview?

KansasMan

Future Jayhawk
Joined
May 17, 2018
Messages
27
So one of my MOCs just released the schedule for their interview day, and they have said that each candidate gets two 10 minute interviews with their nomination board.

This seems unusally short for an interview, especially for something as important as a service academy. Is there anything I should avoid for such a short interview period, such as extended answers? Or is 2x10 just a standard format and I'm making a mountain out of a molehill? Any input is appreciated!
 
Each MOC chooses their own format, and I’ve heard of some interviews as long as 45 minutes and some as short as 20 minutes. Perhaps others here have heard of this 2x10 format.

Don’t be discouraged, because all other candidates will be under the same conditions. Also, it forces candidates to distill and focus their answers — never a bad thing. Many threads here re interview questions, so review the most common ones (the ones you’ll most likely hear). Practice with a friend or relative. The idea is not to memorize your answers, but to know instinctively how you’ll respond to each one so that you’re not fumbling for the answer or rambling on and on. Best wishes to you.
 
I think that all of my son's MOC interviews were that short. If they are doing all of their interviews in one day they need to limit the time to fit it all in one day. As MidCakePa said all of the other candidates will have the same amount of time. Plan your answers well.

Stealth_81
 
We did 15 minute interviews and interviewed 40-50 kids a day. Makes it that much more important to have a solid impact as soon as you walk in the door.
 
Makes it that much more important to have a solid impact as soon as you walk in the door.

Adding to @NavyHoops, with such little time, first impressions are everything. A firm handshake, steady eye contact and a confident “it’s nice to meet you” will go a long way.
 
Think of it this way - some applicants didn't get invited to those interviews. The glass is half-full.
 
Hey KansasMan,

I am also from KS and went through the same nomination process as you a couple years ago. I got into USAFA, USMMA, USCGA, and USNA out of high school, but I was still vying for USMA, so here I am at USMA now. If there are any questions I can answer for you, or any specific advice you would like, please do not hesitate to ask.

2 ten-minute interviews seem very brief, but if prepared well, you can really present yourself to the interviewers and give them a good idea of who you are as a person.
 
Don't sweat it...that's not at all uncommon.

I've served on many boards for my MOC and MOS...some went 10 minutes, some went 20 minutes...it just "depends."

Just go ready to be surprised by questions!

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83
 
Back
Top