The Interview

Many colleges will set up an interview with an alumnus to give you a chance to find out more about the school and its programs. It will also give the school a chance to learn more about you on a personal level. For the interview:

• Be sure to prepare. Research the college ahead of time.
• Do a practice interview with a family member or friend.
• Arrive early, dress appropriately, and don’t overdo cologne or perfume.
• Listen to the interviewer’s questions and answer them directly. 
• Avoid negative nonverbal body language, such as excessive blinking, finger-fiddling, or fidgeting. Try to keep eye contact.
• Prepare questions about the school to ask the interviewer.
• Don’t memorize answers—try to be spontaneous to some degree.

Be prepared for some of the following questions:

• Why do you want to attend our college?
• What will you contribute?
• What courses have you enjoyed most?
• Are your grades an accurate reflection of your potential?
• What has been your biggest achievement?
• How did you spend last summer?
• What do you want to do after you graduate from college?
• What’s the most difficult situation you’ve faced?
• If you could change one thing about your high school, what would it be?
• Tell me about yourself (Creative, analytical, hardworking…).
• What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
• What outside interests do you have?
• Describe a typical day at your present school.