How to Make the Most Out of a College Interview

While not all schools offer interviews, the opportunity to interview offers you a chance to learn about the college and allows the interviewer to learn about you. Use it as a tool to assist your college selection. The interview can have a positive effect on your admission — rarely a negative one. Relax and be yourself! 

• Your interview will usually be with an admission staff member, but it may be with a student, an alumnus, or a professional interviewer. Keep this person’s perspective in mind.  
• The interviewer is eager to get to know you and will try to put you at ease. The interviewer will answer your questions but will be more interested if you have helpful questions that show you have already done some research on the college. 
• Be prepared. Know your rank, your test scores, and your present areas of interest. If you are undecided about your career, feel free to say so (half of college students change their intended major). Think through some areas you would like to explore, competencies you would like to develop, and projects or situations that intrigue you.  
• Do your homework about the school to get the obvious questions answered. You don’t want to be silent when asked, “What would you like to know about our college?” Questions or comments like, “What kinds of internships are offered, and how often do students take them?” show more maturity in your thinking than asking about the number of books in the college library.  
• Interviewers may ask questions about your interests, extracurricular activities/jobs, books you’ve read, meaningful experiences, reasons for applying to this college, life at school, and similar topics. Be ready to talk about these subjects.  
• Be honest. Everyone has strong and weak points.  
• Plan to have your interview alone. Most admission officers prefer to speak with your family after talking with you, rather than during the interview.  
• Choose appropriate clothes to wear for the interview. 
• When you return home, send a thank-you note to the interviewer. Thank the person for his or her time and refer to something specific you discussed