Tips for Your College Interview
THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW
While the trend at colleges and universities is moving away from the once all-important personal interview towards more relaxed, general information group meetings, some schools still require or recommend interviews. Other schools may leave it up to the applicant. In general, if a college offers interviews, it is a good idea to have one. Although generally not as important as other parts of the application process, a good interview can be helpful when admission decisions are made.
Students should write or call the admissions offices in which they are interested two or three weeks in advance to make arrangements for a personal interview, if possible, and a tour of the campus facilities. Some schools will only do group interviews. Other schools will have an alumnus interview the applicant after the completed application packet has been submitted to the college. Some schools will only interview after a group tour. Be sure to get each school’s policy on interviews, as they will differ.
PLANNING THE VISITS: STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Summer visits/tours and interviews are usually arranged by telephone during the spring of the junior year. Call schools for their schedules. When visiting colleges that are all located in one area, you will find that admissions offices can be very helpful in assisting you with your itinerary. Remember: tour schedules vary from school to school so allow yourself plenty of time between visits, particularly if you do not know the area. If you arrive early, use the extra time to look around. Generally, two schools in a day are enough. Adding more can get confusing, and “drive through” campus visits are virtually useless.
Before the visit, always familiarize yourself with the school. This has become extremely easy with college websites. Send away for brochures and view books to go over prior to your visit as well. Most important, if you are asked to fill out a postcard request for further information, do so. Schools keep track of how many times a student requests information or visits. This lets admissions know you are serious about their school.
Things to remember: be punctual! Allow time to accommodate missed turns, traffic jams, or foul weather. If, despite your best efforts, you are going to be late, call the admission office to inform them of the situation. Upon meeting the interviewer, students should take the initiative and introduce themselves and their parent(s) to the interviewer. Appearance is important; dress in a manner that you feel represents you at your best.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS FROM COLLEGE ADMISSIONS INTERVIEWERS
How do you like NDA? What has been the most positive experience you have had? The most negative?
What is your role in the school community? What would your teachers say about you as a person? As a student?
What is the most significant contribution you have made to your school?
What are you looking for in a school? How did you become interested in our college?
What are your personal and career goals?
In what extracurricular activities do you participate?
What has been your favorite subject in high school and why?
How and in what ways do you expect, plan, or hope to transfer your high school contributions, achievements, and/or activities to the college level?
What might you study in college?
What events, if any, would you deem critical in your life thus far?
Who has most influenced you? Why?
How would you describe yourself as a person? As a student?
How do you spend your free time?
Why do you think you are a good match for this college?
Many qualified students apply to our school. What characteristics single you out from others?
Do you have any questions? (Have some in mind!)
QUESTIONS TO ASK ON A COLLEGE INTERVIEW OR TOUR
What constitutes a typical freshman program?
Who teaches freshman courses: Graduate assistants or professors?
What is the average class size for first-year courses and introductory courses?
Where do you study? Is the library a good place? Are quiet study rooms available on campus?
What academic experiences are available beyond the classroom?
How are tests and exams administered?
Which departments have a reputation for being the strongest?
To what extent is there interaction between faculty and students?
What types of research facilities are available? (libraries, labs, etc.)
What do you offer for career guidance services? Job placement services?
Will I have a faculty advisor? How often would I meet with them?
How active and effective is student government?
Is security on campus a concern?
What is the return rate for second-year students? How many of the original freshmen graduate in four years? Five? Six?
Is there an active Alumni Association? Do they have access to career placement?
Then ask yourself: Do I see myself fitting in here?
