The College Interview

The function and significance of the interview in the college admissions process varies from school to school. While large universities have moved away from the interview, smaller, private colleges may require an interview. In this case, the interview may be evaluative, but it rarely weighs significantly in an admission decision. It is an opportunity to get to know you personally. Admissions interviews generally look at three areas while interviewing students. They are looking at you as (1) a possible student at their school, (2) how you react to the campus and what it offers, and (3) what your chances are for admission. Make sure you visit the college's website to determine their policy regarding interviews.

INTERVIEW TIPS

  • Dress for the occasion - tasteful and comfortable, not overly formal. Bring a folder with you containing an unofficial copy of your transcript, standardized test scores, and your activity resume, with a pen and notepad to jot down your thoughts.
  • An interview is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to take an active role in the interview. Arrive early and be courteous to secretaries or receptionists. Call if you are running late. Before your interview be sure to turn off your cell phone - do not silence it - turn it off.
  • You must contemplate, carefully, what you care about - personally, intellectually, and outside of the classroom - well before you visit any college.
  • The task of the interview (from your perspective) is to make a deeply positive impression, so that they will remember you. Be certain to ask questions about those aspects of the curriculum or extracurriculuar life that are important to you (which cannot be easily ascertained from the website or catalog). Show how interested you are in the school and why.
  • The task of the interview (from the interviewer's perspective) is to ascertain if you are the sort of person who will enliven their campus. What will you bring to the mix?

Common Interview Questions

  • Tell me about yourself? What things do you value?
  • Why are you interested in this college?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a student?
  • Do you feel you fulfilled your potential in high school?
  • What are you most proud of?
  • Tell me about a time you were faced with a difficult challenge and overcame it.
  • Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
  • How did you spend your last few summers?
  • Which of your extracurricular activities has been most satisfying?
  • How do you spend a typical day after classes?
  • What is the last book you read?
  • Tell me how you have engaged in the life of your community.
  • What career areas have you considered?
  • What personal qualities would you add to our college community?
  • Where do you see yourself in ten years from now?

College admissions representatives want the answers to the following three questions in an interview.

  • Can the candidate do the work?
  • Does the candidate have a talent or ability that would make the college more interesting?
  • Does the student have a good reason for wanting to attend college?