How should one prepare for a MOC interview, what are something's they ask for?!

thisso11

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What are some sample questions MOC's ask a candidate for a mom, and the senetorial's staffs? Thanks Alot
 
The questions you will be asked are going to vary from MOC board to MOC board (in our state typically MOCs have a three or four person interview team comprised of former academy/military and staffers conduct the interview). There will always be questions that you cannot predict however there are certainly some questions you could anticipate and be able to articulate - not only for an MOC interview but also for essays and to clarify in your own mind what your goals are. For example:

- Why do you want to attend the US (Military/Naval/AF/MM) Academy?

- Give an example of where have you shown leadership and how did your role in activity XYZ stretch you?

- When have you failed and what have you learned from that experience?

- What do you hope to accomplish once you are out of the academy (or after your service obligation) and why?


I'm sure others can add to this list but if you get a handle on these, you are well on your way to being able to describe what you hope to get out of an academy experience.
 
"What will you do if you are not accepted to West Point?"

"Why do you want to serve in the United States Army?"
 
One of the tougher questions I got (on all three interviews!):

What makes you more deserving of this nomination than all of the other very smart, athletic, outstanding candidates we interviewed today?
 
I have done dozens of official WP Interviews and been on several MOC Boards.
The advice above is very good.
-More advice-you man or may not like this but I am trying to help:
-Dress in a nice suit
-Have a short haircut
-Be clean shaven - no sideburns
-No visible tattoos
-Be positive and look the interviewers in the eyes with a friendly but determined way
-Sit up straight and answer the questions directly
-Convince the interviewer that YOU want to go to WP (not your parents)
-Do not mention WP being a free education as the reason you want to go
-Be prepared to show that you have researched WP and have a great deal of knowledge.
-Mention the great contribution made by WP grads and that you are determined to be a part of the "Long Grey Line"
-Mention that you want to serve your country and that WP - you feel- is the best way to do that.
 
I have done dozens of official WP Interviews and been on several MOC Boards.
The advice above is very good.
-More advice-you man or may not like this but I am trying to help:
-Dress in a nice suit
-Have a short haircut
-Be clean shaven - no sideburns
-No visible tattoos
-Be positive and look the interviewers in the eyes with a friendly but determined way
-Sit up straight and answer the questions directly
-Convince the interviewer that YOU want to go to WP (not your parents)
-Do not mention WP being a free education as the reason you want to go
-Be prepared to show that you have researched WP and have a great deal of knowledge.
-Mention the great contribution made by WP grads and that you are determined to be a part of the "Long Grey Line"
-Mention that you want to serve your country and that WP - you feel- is the best way to do that.

:thumb:
thanks B.N.!
 
kfacademy, Dixieland, GoBlue1984: Have any advice on how to answer these challenging questions? Obviously they're quite personal and answers depend on the candidate, but do you mind sharing what you responded with/what you think they want to hear? Thanks! :smile:
 
kfacademy, Dixieland, GoBlue1984: Have any advice on how to answer these challenging questions? Obviously they're quite personal and answers depend on the candidate, but do you mind sharing what you responded with/what you think they want to hear? Thanks! :smile:

Can't tell you what to say, because you are right - it's personal. An frankly for some of the tougher questions there is no correct answer. Sometimes it's not about whether you say "yes" or "no", but about your confidence in saying it. A nomination board wants to see you react well under pressure, so when you get thrown a tough question, reflect for a moment (no need to rush into it), and be clear and confident about your answer. Be respectful, polite, assertive, and mature... confident but humble. Good luck!
 
I've been offline for a few days and just saw your question...

I agree - these are personal questions and there is no right or wrong answer. These are also just examples. Get a handle on these and you will be prepared for what mIght get asked.

Basically you need to be able to articulate why you believe you will benefit by the academy, and why you - as opposed to others who are qualified - will make a difference to the Army and to our country through your service. There are lots of qualified applicants; there are much fewer who are committed to giving back and sacrificing for the sake of our country and the Army.

Best Wishes as you apply!
 
There are some questions with definitely right and wrong answers.

An actual question asked during a MOC board

"Can you kill someone for your country." Had an applicant say "No."
 
I was recently able to talk to one of the members of the interview board for the nomination I received. He told me that the biggest reason they chose me was because of my presence - posture, confidence, formal interview attire, etc.

The biggest advice I can give isn't about how to answer a particular question, but how to answer any question they ask. Take a moment to think about your answer before speaking. Take a deep breath and make sure you can clearly articulate what you want to say. A few stumbles is expected, so don't stress over those; it's more important to speak at a reasonable pace (keep in mind you'll want to talk faster because you're nervous!) and not to mumble.

You want to present yourself as capable and confident. They know you're nervous. They just want to see how to handle those nerves. If you can speak calmly and confidently, then you don't need to have profound, life-changing answers. Just honest ones.
 
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