Handling Interview Anxiety

Write down short talking points for each project in your portfolio. They can include what the project was, the problem you solved, and what you learned.

Benefit: Having prompts ready helps prevent blanking in the moment.

Rehearse presenting your portfolio with a classmate, mentor, or even in front of a mirror.

Benefit: Familiarity reduces anxiety, making the conversation feel more natural.

Having questions ready can take the pressure off when conversation slows. Examples include:

• “What stands out to you about this project?”
• “Do you see ways I could make this piece stronger?”
• “What do you look for in a junior designer?”

Even professionals get anxious. Acknowledging nerves with “I’m a little nervous but excited to be here” can help ease them.

A short introduction like, “Hi, I’m Johnny. Thanks for looking at my work!” works perfectly.

Reviewers are there to give feedback and help. The goal is to absorb insights, not to deliver a perfect pitch.

Jotting down feedback shows professionalism, helps you remember key points, and gives your hands something to do.

Taking a breath before responding can calm nerves and make answers sound more thoughtful.

You don’t need to fill every silence. Short, genuine responses such as “That’s a great point. I’ll think about that” work well.

Write down the most valuable points right away before they’re forgotten.

A short thank-you email or LinkedIn message can leave a positive impression.

Participating is an accomplishment. Simply showing up and sharing your work is a win.

Think of it as an opportunity to gather insight, not a test to pass or fail.

Break the experience into small, achievable steps, like introducing yourself to two reviewers or asking one question per table.

Every review or networking event is a chance to get more comfortable and build confidence for the future.