Informational Interviewing

Informational interviews are a great way to create a better understanding of a major, career, or field that interests you. This is also an opportunity to build a network for the future.

Below are possible interview questions to help get you started. Many of these questions can be used whether you are interviewing a TME Mentor, Faculty or Staff Member, Alumni, or someone in a career field of interest. Remember, you can always ask additional questions to further discover possible majors and careers, and assist you on your exploration journey.

Questions about Majors

How did you decide on your major?

Why did you decide on your major?

What types of jobs or careers could I pursue with this major?

What advice would you give for someone considering this type of major?

Are there related majors I should look into?

What courses did you most enjoy in your major or related to your major and why?

What are some key skills you learned through your major?

Questions about Involvement and Experiences

What type of jobs or internships would you recommend I pursue if I am interested in this career path/major?

What are/were you involved in while you were a student?

What advice do you have for balancing professional clubs/activities with fun and interesting ones?

Are there any professional organizations related to this major or career that I should be aware of?

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were starting out?

What research projects are you currently working on or have you worked on?

What recommendations do you have if I’m looking to get involved in a research project?

Questions about Career Exploration

How did your major prepare you for your career?

How did your experience in college prepare you for your career?

How did you begin your career?

What does this job entail on a daily basis?

What are the challenges to your job/career? How have you dealt with them?

What makes a person successful at this job or in this industry? What skills do they need?

Are there related fields I should look into?