Interviews can feel intimidating, but they don’t have to. They’re opportunities to share your story, highlight your strengths and connect with people who want to learn more about you. Rosie Prisco, campus recruitment manager at Forvis Mazars, recently joined us for a lunch-hour session on mindset, nerves, and imposter syndrome. With years of experience interviewing hundreds of students across the country, Rosie offered practical strategies to help you shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling confident. Her message was simple: preparation and authenticity will always make you stand out.

Here are her top tips to help you walk into your next interview feeling confident and prepared.

1. Prep Like It’s an Exam (But Don’t Cram!)
   Think of an interview like a verbal exam. Do your research a day or two before, learn about the firm, the role, and a few key things you want to highlight about yourself. Then, the night before, step away. Relax, recharge and do something that helps you feel calm and ready.


2. Remember: You Belong There
   Imposter syndrome is real, and everyone feels it at some point. Rosie’s reminder: if you’ve been invited to interview, you were chosen for a reason. The interview isn’t just about you proving yourself, it’s also your chance to see if the firm is the right fit for you.


3. Avoid Sounding Rehearsed
   Instead of scripting answers, jot down keywords you want to remember. Weave them naturally into the conversation. When it comes to asking questions, keep them genuine. Ask about things you’re really curious about, whether that’s the interviewer’s career path, the company culture or the role itself.


4. Show Experience Beyond Jobs
   If you don’t have much work experience yet, don’t panic. Talk about leadership roles, volunteer work, or even personal projects that show you’re curious, willing to learn, and a team player. Be upfront about what you don’t know and ask questions. That curiosity is a huge plus.


5. Make Your Introduction Memorable
   Rosie suggests tying your story to the firm’s values. Do a little research and connect their mission to your own goals or passions. Bonus points if you share a hobby or interest at the end of your introduction, it makes you relatable and memorable.


6. Read the Room (Even Virtually)
   Virtual interviews can be tricky, but look for signs of flow: is it a back-and-forth conversation rather than just Q&A? Don’t be afraid to show personality, nod, smile, talk with your hands and treat the camera like the person you’re talking to. And always find a quiet, distraction-free space with enough time before and after to breathe.


7. Follow Up Like a Pro
   Rosie’s golden rule: don’t let AI write your thank-you email for you. Keep it simple and personal. Thank them for their time, mention something specific you enjoyed learning, and reiterate your interest. Send it within 24 hours, it shows professionalism and keeps you top of mind.


8. Turn Rejection Into Growth
   Not every interview ends with an offer, and that’s OK. Use rejection as a chance to reflect. What went well? What didn’t? Was the firm really the right fit? Sometimes it’s simply timing or logistics, not you. And remember: a “no” now doesn’t always mean a “no” forever.

Rosie’s Final Advice

Interviews are conversations, not interrogations. Be curious, be yourself and remember it’s just as much about finding out if the company is right for you as it is about showing them you’re right for the role.

Looking for more advice like this?

INCPAS student events are a great way to keep learning, meet employers, hear career insights firsthand and start building your network. See the full lineup at incpas.org/StudentEvents.