With regular decision applications in for most college-bound seniors, congratulations on completing the college admissions process!
The waiting period begins, interspersed with alumni and on-campus college interviews. Remember that the college interview is as much an opportunity for the school to learn about you as it is for you to learn about the school. There is no right or wrong answer during an interview – it isn’t a test. Think of it as more of a conversation.
Common Interview Questions:
- Why are you interested in our college?
- Why do you want to major in __________?
- Tell me about a challenge you overcame.
- If you had to do something differently in High School, what would you change and why?
- What makes you different than other candidates? How do you describe yourself?
- What do you like to do for fun?
- How do you envision yourself in 10 years?
- Tell me about your favorite book and why.
- What do you see as your biggest weakness?
- How do you define success?
- Who in your life has most influenced you?
- How will you contribute to our college?
Do’s & Don’ts of the College Interview
- Do your homework. Knowing as much as possible about the school will be a huge benefit. Prepare 2-4 questions for the interview.
- Do dress professionally and conservatively.
- Do follow all of the standard rules of interviews, i.e. shake hands firmly, make eye contact, sit up straight, etc.
- Do show enthusiasm for the school and the program.
- Don’t be late. Instead, show up several minutes early.
- Don’t sit there and wait for questions to be asked. Engage your interviewer, by asking your own questions.
- Don’t try to be someone else. This is the biggest mistake most applicants make during college interviews. Be yourself.
- Don’t forget to send a thank you note and reiterate your interest in the college (email is fine).
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