No More Deer in the Headlights: Interview Practice With AI

Ever had a student (or been the student) who froze like a deer in headlights during an interview? Been there. Whether it’s for a job, graduate school, or a conversation with a potential mentor, high-stakes interviews can spark panic. This teaching practice introduces AI-powered mock interviews to give students—both traditional and adult learners—a low-pressure space to prepare. Using AI, students rehearse: Informational interviews Job interviews Graduate school and assistantship interviews Why it works: Students receive meaningful, low-stakes practice and instant feedback on tone, clarity, and content. They can revise, retry, and gain confidence with each round. This approach also supports responsible and effective AI use—an important skill as students transition into the workforce or graduate programs.