No one expects students to be wearing thousand-dollar suits. In fact, even if you happen to be part of the 1% and have access to such things, I'd recommend leaving them at home. What we're going for here is the opposite of entitlement. Standard interviewing uniform consisits of khakis, blue blazer, blue or white shirt, red tie. You, however, are not standard. Wear grey slacks, the darker the better. Go for a shirt with some color, like yellow or pink. Demonstrate that you're willing and able to make yourself impeccable, but without the loss of personality that usually entails. Long hair and beards are ok, as long as they're visibly groomed. Kids are kids, and reasonable adults will usually make allowances.
When you arrive at the building, treat every single person you encounter as if they have the power to hire you. Be polite to the lobby receptionist, the security guard, and for the love of God be nice to the interviewer's assistant. Some companies, these days, place cameras in their reception areas to watch you squirm. So don't. Sing songs in your head, breathe slow and deep, take a seat if offered. You should be wearing a watch, to demonstrate your commitment to punctuality, but don't look at it under any circumstances. Also, as long as you are in the building, your cellphone does not exist. Do not make a call, send a text, or play angry birds while you wait. Doing so makes you look like a petulant child deserving a place at the kiddie table.
Sad but true: most of my generation (I'm 23) is incapable of conducting a conversation with humans of the non-pixelated variety. The people you meet will have low expectations. And that means an opportunity. When you meet the interviewer, shake hands firmly, smile big, and say what a pleasure it is to meet them (you dont have to mean it). Once you're face to face, the interview has begun, so be careful of what you say. Remind him of who you are, of your career goals and passions and unique qualifications. Listen well, and respond to what he says. Be detailed. You will, of course, have researched everything about the company beforehand, so mention a recent piece of activity and ask how it serves as an example of the firm as a whole. While he speaks, nod and respond in appropriate places. Ask followup questions. Fun fact: successful people like talking about their successes. Use that.
At the end of the conversation, ask the questions you've prepared ahead of time. My personal favorite: "What is the biggest challenge someone in this role would face?" When the conversation is over, let it be over. Don't waste anyone's time. Its appropriate to ask when and how they'd like to be in touch. Use the answer to decide when you'll be sending a followup email. Offer your profuse thanks, ask for a business card if they haven't offered one already, and get out. Wish everyone you see a good day. Game over.
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