The following are the most commonly asked questions by recruiters. They are difficult and all the more so if you are not expecting them. Take some time to think these through. Recall, that recruiters are looking to see how you handle yourself. Don't be totally passive and silent. On the flip side, don't be hyper and give obviously rehearsed canned speeches. Rather, strive for what appears as thoughtful and well articulated respsonses.
#1. Why did you decide to become an engineer?
#2. What are your long-range and short-range goals and objectives? When and why did you establish these goals and how are you preparing yourself to achieve them?
#3. What are the most important rewards you expect in your career?
#4. What do you expect to be earning in five years?
#5. What is more important to you, the money or the type of job?
#6. What do you consider to be your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
#7. How would you describe yourself?
#8. What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
#9. How has your education prepared you for a career?
#10. Why should I hire you?
#11. What qualifications do you have that make you think you will be successful?
#12. In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company?
#13. What qualities does a successful manager possess?
#14. What two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
#15. Describe your most rewarding college experience.
#16. What were your best and worst subjects?
#17. Why did you select your college or university?
#18. Do you enjoy doing independent research?
#19. What is your GPA? Do you think this is a good indication of your academic achievement?
#20. What have you learned from participation in extracurricular activities? From professional society activities?
#21. Do you have plans for continued study? (or for graduate students - Why did you pursue an advanced degree?).
#22. In what kind of a work environment are you most comfortable?
#23. How do you work under pressure?
#24. What part-time or summer have you found most interesting? Why?
#25. How would you describe the ideal job for you following graduation?
#26. Why did you decide to seek a position with this company? What do you know about our company?
#27. Are you seeking employment in a company of a certain size? Why?
#28. What criteria are you using to evaluate the company for which you hope to work?
#29. Do you have a geographical preference? Why? Will you relocate? Does relocation bother you?
#30. Are you willing to travel?
#31. What have you learned from your mistakes?