What is a strong closing statement for a Sterling Scholar interview?

• A. End with a brief thank you and nothing more.
• B. Reiterate interest in serving the program, summarize top strengths and what you will contribute, and express gratitude for the opportunity.
• C. Ask about next steps and exit abruptly.
• D. Share unrelated information to fill time.

Answer: (B)

A strong closing statement shows professionalism and leaves a clear sense of your fit and what you would bring to the program. It should reaffirm your interest, briefly summarize the strengths you’d contribute, and express sincere gratitude for the opportunity. This combination communicates that you’re not only excited about the chance but also thoughtful about how you’d actively support and add value to the program.

In practice, you might wrap up by restating your enthusiasm for the Sterling Scholar experience, highlight a couple of core strengths or experiences that align with the program’s goals, and note how you would apply them to contribute to the community. Ending with gratitude reinforces respect for the interviewers and their time, and it leaves a positive, memorable impression of your professionalism.

Other closing approaches fall short because they don’t reinforce your fit or professional demeanor. A message that ends with only a brief thank-you can feel abrupt, and one that asks about next steps or exits quickly can come off as pushy or unsettled. Sharing unrelated information to pad the time dilutes your message and may raise questions about your priorities. The strongest finish ties your strengths to what you’ll bring to the program, shows appreciation, and closes with confidence.