Confidence and Pressure
Reading and Self-Development · Growing beyond sport
How Do I Feel Confident in an Interview or a Scholarship Panel?
Rhema Adelaja · National Champion & 4x DUX
An interview is a pressure moment, so treat it like one. Pressure gets smaller when the task gets specific. Set a process goal, write a short introduction, prepare three stories, and practise out loud. Use a Gear Shift before you walk in. Then review what you learned.
The answer
- Set a process goal, not an outcome goal. For example: "answer clearly and ask two questions", not "get the place".
- Write a short introduction: who you are, what you do, and what you are applying for.
- Prepare three stories from your real week. Use Situation, Task, Action, Result to keep each one short.
- Prepare two questions to ask them.
- Practise out loud with someone you trust. Then change one thing and go again.
- Before you go in, use a Gear Shift: shut down the rest of your day, reset your body with box breathing, prime with visualisation and a short mantra.
- Afterwards, ask: what happened, what was in my control, what did I learn, and what is my next action?
For information only. This is general information for student-athletes, not medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Talk to a qualified professional about your own situation. Terms
Rules and amounts change. Check the official source before you act. Last checked: 14 October 2026.