So I need so interview advice. You see, the International Relations Council is taking 6-8 students in my county to go to Okaya, Japan. And my interview is Friday. Honestly up against the odds can't believe I'm one of the ones they called.
Here's the thing. I'm only a junior in highschool and the only interview I've ever had to do is for my job I have now. But this isn't a job interview... so I'm wondering how I should act, or what I should say. I don't want to get my hopes up and then be dissapointed because I screwed something up. So to those of you who have had a lot of interview experience, some advice and tips would be great.
Also I've never been on a vacation anywhere and I don't get to travel. How much does a passport cost and how fast does it take to get one? How much money should I have on me just in case? How much should I pack for a trip of two weeks?
Thanks for any advice and tips. I really hope I get to go. Japan is my dream, and I don't want to screw this up.

First things first, when you go in, be sure to look them in the eye, THANK THEM for taking the time out of their schedule to interview you, and if nothing else, try to smile. It doesn't matter what you are interviewing for; confidence and direction are always traits an interviewer will look for.

Second, there are certain questions that will come up you should prepare for. One of these is, "What is your biggest weakness?" Be sure that when you give your answer, you identify how you are able to use it as a strength, or how you plan to improve upon this weakness in the short term, for the long term. Another question I've been asked in an interview is, "Why do I want this position?" This is when you get to really be passionate. In under 60 seconds, do your best to explain how this opportunity is going to change your life. From what I can tell, you really want this, but can you demonstrate that desire in words?

If you need additional resources for preparing, I suggest asking a faculty member at your school or at a local college/university that has experience in business/business procedure, because that will give you the best edge. If none are available, go to a local employment office and they can also give you the advice you need. You just need to make the appointment in advance (say for this Thursday) and explain that it's for an externship instead of a job (because while you're in high school it still technically counts).

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As for traveling abroad, you can usually pick up a passport from a US Post Office.

https://www.usps.com/shop/apply-for-a-passport.htm

And the amount of money you need will depend entirely on the duration of the trip and the currency exchange rate (which currently sits at 0.8 ). My advice is $100 USD per week attending, divided by the exchange rate, so $125 USD (or 10,000 Yen) per week.

>>2 Thank you for the advice I really appreciate it. I'll give it my all :)

Basically MKALLER summed it all up. I would add, research on the company a bit, know about them. Also, do a bit of research on Japan. This is more towards jobs, but work on your appearance. You should also dress up a bit. Not a suit/dress, but maybe something like a button up shirt. Brush your teeth, maybe wear some cologne/perfume. When you first enter in, greet with a FIRM handshake, not a loose one, and also not death grip. Like MKALLER said, smile, be confident, and be prepared for questions. They might ask something like "Your greatest achievement", or "What do you think made you who you are today?". Be honest, if you try to make something up, you might fumble up. And lastly, dont be late! It looks really bad if you do that.

Hopefully you'll make it! Good luck! :)

What I've been told in my interviewing workshops is that if you are going to wear cologne/perfume, it's best to apply it to your hands instead of your entire body, and only a small amount at that. That way, it's noticeable yet not overly so. The biggest mistake people make is putting on too much cologne and smelling horrible because of it.

Oh yes, i forgot to mention that. Thank you :o

Thanks guys :) im thinking im going to go get an outfit tonight along with a bit of makeup. perhaps black slacks, dress shoes and a colored button up shirt? would that be okay?

>>7, sounds good for an interview. Just make sure you look really neat, no sloppy ill-fitting stuff.
In the words of my track coach I wish you "Much success"

I'm going to Japan guys! My heart just stopped.

Congratulations! I'm so glad you managed to get in. :)

Ahh! Congrats! Way to go :D