A lot of people have been asking me for tips on Mandela Washington Fellowship’s YALI interview process. From my experience in 2014, and in the days to come, I will be sharing some tips. I invite other YALI Fellows from Nigeria to share their experience too. Please note that this is simply a guide based on what I experienced.

1. Panel Interview: I had a three man panel interview at the US Embassy in Lagos and spent about an hour on the hot seat. Your goal should be this- to get to the level where your point is so clear that when a question is being put to you by a member of the panel, another member is already giving a response on your behalf. I got to that point….

2. Be articulate- You have put down some things in your application form that has gotten them interested in knowing more about the work you do. This is the point where they determine if you are are truly living and pursing the work you have put down in writing. Be very clear about your points. Trust me, they have read every single thing you have put down. When I had my interview, I saw my application printed and fully highlighted in their hands.

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3. Cross examination- because only the best and most promising of individuals will be selected, think of this a cross examination and some sort of verification of all you have written. You must know your work inside out because you live it everyday. You must understand your goal, your future and the vision you hope to achieve.

Editor’s Note: This post is written by YALI fellow Adepeju Jaiyeoba