DPA Question and Answers Board

Okay, so the questions have been streaming in regarding DPA as many of you guys have been getting or not getting calls. Here's a quick run through of the more common questions to help put your hearts and minds at ease -

1) Does Frayon really look like Brad Pitt?
Yes. I do. But this is irrelevant to the DPA. Next question.
Fanning: Stop lying to yourself, Frayon. WAKE UP.

2) I haven't received any calls or emails or SMSes even though all my friends have been getting them already! Does it mean I've not been chosen?
Nope, it doesn't, so relax. The whole process of them contacting all the shortlisted candidates for interviews will take the rest of this week, so there're still chances for you to receive a call from us.

Tell you what. If possible (we're not sure if it is yet, but we'll ask around), we'll let everyone know once ALL the calls/emails/SMSes have been sent out ASAP.


3) I've been called up! What's the interview going to be like?
First of all, WOOT AND CONGRATZ! Now relax and take a deep breath. Okay, feeling less kan-cheong? No? ... Hmm. Nevermind. Think of my face. That's right, feeling better now? Good.
Fanning: Hello. Are you trying to make them feel more relax or die of fright?

Okay, basically a panel of staff will ask you questions revolving around why you chose to enter this course via DPA. Remember, the thing about the DPA is that it's really for students who really know that this IS the course they want to take, regardless of what their O level results will be like. So the interview will basically revolve around your interests, passions and the like.

Incidentally in one of our Advance to GO! videos we asked some of the current TP students that got in via DPA about their interview, which (if you haven't already) you can watch here.


4) HOW DO I IMPROVE MY CHANCES AT THE INTERVIEW???
I'm going to put this in point form, and will update this as the days go by:

- First impressions are important. Don't dress sloppily, but you don't really need to go and purposely tailor a suit just for this either. The interviewers will want to see who you are - dress comfortably and naturally.

- Prepare your portfolio if you have one. Don't know what to put in? CCA records, achievements, testimonials - things you feel are relevant to the course or to your life dreams. E.g. If you want to enter into a Design course, bringing your artwork is a good idea, but that International Britney Spears Impersonation Champion trophy might not be so helpful.

- No portfolio doesn't mean DOOM. A portfolio, while useful, isn't necessarily the most critical thing in the interview. Remember - it's about you, your potential and your dreams.

- Be natural. Don't be too nervous, don't be frightened and most of all don't be hysterical. Be yourself, be at ease. If you feel you're going to be nervous, why not practice the interview with a friend or two? Make them ask you questions about your passions and interests and then make them GRILL you. It'll help, trust me =D.


5) How many students are you accepting via DPA?
This actually depends on the course and number of applicants, and unfortunately we really can't give you a fixed figure right now. =(


6) I've been called up for more than 1 interview. Can I go for them all?
Unless the dates clash (and I believe you can arrange for another time), yes, actually you can. You see, the ultimate choice lies with you. You might even end up choosing your 2nd or 3rd choice depending on the interview. One of our DPA students once remarked that it was the interview that helped her decide to come to TP ('cuz the TP lecturer was nicer LOL).