2012 Selection Process

The WIP class for 2012 is selected through a three-stage, competitive process.  All interested students must first complete an application that is reviewed by two independent reviewers.   From the applicant pool, the reviewers select the best applications, and those students move forward to the next step in the process, attending a face-to-face interview in Dublin or Belfast.

Step 1 – Self Selection - Through our website and our on-campus events, we aim to give you a clear understanding of the purpose and practicalities of the Program.  We hope that you will be able to make a good decision about whether WIP is for you.

Step 2 – Application – The WIP application is a reflective document that requires students to devote a significant amount of time to the process.  The application includes personal information and essay-style questions that allows you to describe why you feel you will be successful in this program. Most applicants spend over 5+ hours responding to the questions in the application, and we encourage you to devote the necessary time and effort to the application in order to provide us with the most comprehensive insight into who you are, your priorities in life, and your plans for the future.  Unfortunately we are not able to offer all applicants an interview, and less than half of the applicants make it to interview.

Step 3 – Interview – Students participate in a formal, face-to-face interview scheduled in Belfast or Dublin in early March.  Students are required to dress and perform professionally throughout this process.  The interview is conducted by a panel that includes WIP staff, members of the WIP Board of Directors and Ireland Committee, and WIP alumni.  Each student is interviewed individually by the panel.  Students will also be assembled into small groups and participate in a group-based interview in front of the same panel.  Each students is assessed based on their individual performance and how they performed in the group interview.

Notification – Following the interview process, the next WIP class is selected.  Notification is provided via email, and students are required to accept or reject the placement within 24 hours of receipt of notice.