College Interview

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College Interview

Is the interview required?

Most schools don't require an admissions interview. It is usually private schools or highly competitive public schools that even offer the opportunity.

What is the purpose of the interview?

The interview provides the admissions committee yet another piece of information with which to evaluate you. If they have a tough decision between a bunch of candidates with good SAT scores, excellent high school records, etc, they may use the results of an admissions interview to make their final choice.

How can I do well at my interview?

First step to acing your interview is researching the college you're interviewing at. Knowing more about the school will make it easier for you to answer questions like: "Why do you want to attend our school?" and "Why should our school want you as a student?"

Doing your research will also help you prepare to ask questions of the interviewer. This isn't a one sided thing. While they are deciding whether you are a good choice for their school you need to be deciding whether their school is a good choice for you.

Practice answering questions

Try a mock interview with a friend or family member. Here are some questions that frequently are asked:

• Why do you want to go to this college?
• What is your greatest accomplishment?
• Where do you envision yourself in ten years?
• What books have you read in the last year?

Don't forget to smile

Smile at the interviewer, they will automatically feel more comfortable about you. Smiling will also put some of your nerves at ease and will help you relax.

Common Interview Mistakes:

Repeating canned answers
You may want to prepare for your interview by practicing what you'd say if asked certain questions. But, if you're asked these questions, don't just rattle off a canned answer. Try to sound natural, not like you're reciting the Gettysburg address.

Short or confusing answers
Yes/no answers won't cut it. Give the interviewer an honest response with some elaboration. Don't ramble on and on but don't be so short that you sound like you're being blunt and couldn't care less.

What to wear

Dress neatly and professionally. Don't show up with a ton of jewelry, perfume/cologne, and a fancy outfit on. Act like you're going to a job interview.

Follow-up

When the interview is over thank the interviewer for their time and for the opportunity of meeting them. If you don't have their address or contact information ask for their business card. When you get home send them a thank-you letter. Don't make your letter sound canned or like you're trying to apologize for anything you might have said. Just send a short letter thanking them for their time.