Some colleges recommend interviews: few actually require them. How important is the interview? Every year fewer and fewer colleges offer them. If offered, they can make a difference. Since not every applicant is able to travel for an on-campus interview, having one can be an advantage. It may help you to be remembered by the admission officer.
We strongly encourage all juniors and seniors to attend the college information sessions hosted by the College Counseling Office in the fall. About one hundred college admission representatives offer information presentations at our school. Many of these officers are also responsible for reading the applications from our school. Meeting them does make a difference.
It is possible to distinguish yourself in the crowd. Occasionally a student will impress an admissions officer by asking an intelligent question about the school. Officers routinely make written notes of all their contacts with students in this type of setting.
Formal Interviews :
The on-campus one-on-one interview
This is easily the most important interview. Conducted by an admissions officer, the interviewer often is also involved in making the acceptance decisions .
The alumni interview
This type of interview is growing in numbers and preference. This type of interview is usually not arranged until your application has been received. The interviewer will contact you to arrange an interview held locally.
Sample Interview Questions :
Why are you considering this college?
What are you planning to major in and why?
What do you expect to be doing in ten years?
What would you like to tell me about yourself?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
How would your best friend describe you?
Describe someone you admire and why?
Describe an event that has had an impact on your life?
What magazines do you read?
Tell me about your family.
Pointers :
Read all available material on the college in advance. Do not ask questions that are answered in the material.
Be prepared to comment on particular programs that combine your talents and interests. Have five questions ready to ask the interviewer.
Be prepared for cryptic questions (e.g. “What would you like to talk about?”; “Are you a mature person?”; “What are your weaknesses?”; “Why should we admit you?”)
Ask thoughtful questions. Seek information that cannot be found in the college’s publications. Read the student newspapers.
Give thoughtful answers. Do not worry about moments of silence as you collect your thoughts.
Dress neatly. Avoid slang. Be relaxed but not lax in your body language. No gum.
Nervousness is the standard. Interviewers know that most people are nervous during interviews
Be honest. Do not be afraid to admit you do not know something; simply steer the conversation back to subjects you know.
Be aware of current events. Give your opinion freely, but back it up with reasons. There are no wrong answers. The interviewer wants to see how you think on your feet, how you formulate an argument. Again, don’t be afraid to admit ignorance.
Remember the interviewer’s name. If the interviewer is an admissions officer at the college, address all future correspondence to that person.
Write a thank you note to the interviewer.
MAKE EYE CONTACT