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Why should I interview?
While not every college will offer you the opportunity to interview, many colleges recommend that you schedule an interview with the admissions office. This is an excellent opportunity for the college to learn more about you and for you to learn more about the campus. Colleges receive your grades and SAT scores, but they do not really know YOU. This is a chance to personalize the admission process and away to get all of your questions answered. While a great interview cannot make up for a poor academic record, it will surely enhance your chance for acceptance if you take it seriously and present yourself well!
Interview DOs
Research the college
Dress neatly and comfortably
Get directions and arrive early
Be outgoing and confident
Be familiar with your transcript
Review admission materials
Keep detailed notes of your visit
Follow up with a thank-you note |
Interview DON’Ts
Be late
Memorize speeches
Ask questions directly from brochures
Chew gum or wear a lot of perfume
Swear or use too much slang
Respond with only “yes/no” answers
Call the school your “safety”
Refuse an interview – it will be noted! |
Are there different types of interviews?
Evaluative interviews have an impact on the acceptance decision and admission criteria. Informational interviews are designed to answer questions and offer an overview of the college. Whichever the campus offers, be attentive, ask questions, and show enthusiasm. Don’t forget that first impressions are important. Contact with any college representative should be taken seriously.
Evaluative Interviews
Admission Officer – Most common, you can call or schedule an appointment online with an admission counselor
Alumni – Set up by the college and usually held off—campus with a college alumnus.
An evaluation is completed and added to your file.
Auditions –Arts, music or dance performances arranged on specified dates
Special Interest – Meetings with athletic coaches, department heads or club supervisors. |
Informational Interviews
Informational Sessions – Pre-scheduled group sessions conducted by an admissions representative for families.
High School Visits – College reps visit high schools to distribute materials and to answer questions. Good opportunity to develop a contact with the schools of interest.
Student Interview – Offers the prospective student the opportunity to have an informal, but informative conversation with a current student |
How do I act?
Relax, have fun and show confidence. The interview is not a test or an interrogation. It’s simply a conversation. Admission counselors are trying to get to know you better. Be yourself!
Do your Homework!
Research the school and prepare by answering practice questions.
What do I take with me?
1. List of questions
2. Notebook & pen
3. College resume
4. Copy of transcript
5. SAT/ACT score
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