How to Ace Your Interview as an MBA Student—Especially If You’re Pivoting

Are you considering a new direction after your summer internship or past job didn’t spark your passion? Or perhaps you're eager to broaden your horizons and build a versatile skill set for today’s rapidly changing business world. No matter your motivation, we’re thrilled you recognize the value of a part-time internship during the school year—and we’re here to help you land it.

How to Prepare for a Internship Interview?

At Trylrun, we’ve seen students clarify their career path through the internships we facilitate, and we hope to help you do the same. Below, you'll find our expert tips for acing your internship interview, especially if you’re transitioning to a new function or industry.

(Already know the basics? Jump straight to our advanced tips, or revisit classic interview advice here or, if you’re an Anderson student, here.)

Get Clear on Your “Why” 

Make it clear what’s driving your pivot. Craft a clear story, reflecting on what you’ve experienced and learned thus far, and explain your motivation for making the switch. Tie the pivot to your skills, interests, and long-term goals, making your story compelling and forward-looking. 

Connect the Dots From Your Past to the Role

Even if your background isn’t an obvious match for what you’re interviewing for, what matters most is your ability to bridge the gap—and articulate the value you bring.

Highlight transferable skills

Problem-solving, leadership, collaboration, communication, and project management are valued everywhere. Prepare examples of each! Additionally, explain how the skills you have gained are able to provide value in this role.

Take advantage of your strengths

Explain how your background gives you a unique edge other candidates may not offer.  

Example: “Having led teams in consulting, I’m excited to apply my client management skills to a startup environment where relationships matter deeply.”

Demonstrate Your Ability to Learn

Prove that you will be able to contribute without requiring much hand-holding. Better yet, get employers to trust that because you’re new, you’ll be able to challenge the status quo and think outside the box, providing ideas an industry veteran may not propose. 

Prepare stories of adapting fast

Think of times when you had to learn a new skill, system, or industry quickly and succeeded. This attests to your ability to thrive not only in a different environment, but in this internship, especially if company needs evolve. Large summer internships for established brands are oftentimes very structured, but startups require more agility. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to tell concise, impactful stories that demonstrate flexibility and initiative.

Do your research and express genuine curiosity

Show you’ve done your homework on the industry, company, and role, and ask thoughtful questions. Bonus points if you’ve prepared a few ideas or suggestions for their business, which can also prove helpful if casing questions arise.

Showcase your growth mindset, and take advantage of being a student

Mention the steps you’ve taken to fill knowledge gaps. Leverage your MBA experience and point out relevant classes, projects, readings, case competitions, and other opportunities that you’ve taken on. 

Tip: Club leadership is also fair game for behavioral questions.

Finish Strong

Ask impact-oriented questions such as “What would success look like for this internship by the end of the quarter?” or “What is the biggest challenge this role can help solve?” (if these haven’t been addressed earlier on, of course). Sum it up with a short recap of what you have to offer and why this role excites you, and don’t forget to send a thank you note after the interview concludes.

Good Luck!

With the right narrative and authentic enthusiasm, you’ll ace your interview and unlock opportunities that can reshape your career. Prepare well, and we have every confidence that you’ll do just fine.