Wednesday 11 February 2015

How to Ace the Admission Interview - By CollegeApp

You will find a wealth of information around the web- read below for CommonApp's advice on how to succeed in your next interview.

Be Aware:  There are several kinds of interviews  and while each one has similarities, it is important to know which kind of interview you will have in advance.
      - Evaluative: the interviewer's comments and thoughts about the interview will play some sort of role in the process.
      - Non-evaluative/informational: the interview serves as an opportunity to get to know the student and answer any questions they may have.
      - Alumni: an interview conducted off-campus by an alum of the college and is usually non-evaluative.

Be Prepared: Know the basics about the school and know why you are visiting. (And no, "My mom dragged me here" is not an acceptable response). Have three thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer- questions that aren't already answered in the school's admission materials. Perhaps you might ask something specific about the department or major you hope to study or about the internships available in the department.

Be the Leader: When you walk into the admissions office, take charge. Don't let your parents check in with the front desk- this is your chance to introduce yourself. Cell phones should be left outside.

Be Relaxed: The interview is an opportunity for you to get to know the college and for them to get to know you. Take a deep breath and be yourself during the interview and it will go well.

Be Professional: Admission officers understand that you are touring a college campus and that you are a high school student, so they are not expecting you to show up in a business suit. However, good impressions are important. Make sure you are neat and tidy so that they know you're taking the interview seriously.

Be Careful: The "interview" starts the minute you walk in the door. The front desk reception area staff see everything, so be on your best behavior. No matter how many hours you have been with your parents and no matter how tired you are after the long car ride or flight, this is the time to shine!

And finally- PRACTICE: Think about possible answers to the following questions.
1. Why do you want to attend our college?
2. What can you contribute to our college campus?
3. What three adjectives best describe you?
4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
5. What activities do you find most rewarding?
6. What is your favorite book?
7. What do you want to do after graduating from college?
8. If you had a $1000 to give away, what would you do with it?
9. If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be?

As always, see your school counselor for help and possible mock-interview scenarios!



 

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