College Interview Tips College interviews are rarely apart of the application process, but for more selective institutions or for scholarship purposes, you may be asked to participate in an interview. When participating in an interview, it may take place at a local establishment or on-campus. You may be interviewing with a local alumni from that institution, admissions staff member(s), or with a scholarship committee. If you are asked to participate in an interview, it is important to consider these helpful tips.
SCHEDULE IN ADVANCE
WATCH EYE CONTACT AND POSTURE
Arrange your interview with the college admissions office at least
Remember that your nonverbal messages, especially during the
three or four weeks in advance (allow more time during the busy
first several minutes and closing minutes of the interview, may
fall season) by phone or e-mail.
have an overriding effect on the picture of you that is retained by
NO PARENTS Remember that the college is interested in interviewing you, the prospective student, not your parents. It is perfectly acceptable
the interviewer. A warm, firm handshake, good eye contact, reasonably erect posture, appropriate courtesy, and responsiveness in facial expression will all do much to convey a positive interest.
for your parents to accompany you to the admissions office and
VISIT THE WEBSITE
even to greet the admissions representative or ask a pressing
Research the college/university before you visit and avoid asking
question or two. It is not wise for them to linger unless they are
obvious questions. Be prepared to discuss why you are interest-
specifically invited to do so by the college official.
ed in applying to that particular school.
BE PROMPT
SPEAK UP
Arrive for your appointment on time or perhaps a few minutes
Don’t rely on the interviewer to do all of the talking. Ask questions
early, and dress suitably for the occasion (no jeans, please).
of your own.
CONTROL NERVES
TALK ABOUT YOUR RECORD
Expect some nervousness or tension on your part; this is only
Be prepared to discuss your academic and extracurricular record
normal. But do keep the interview in perspective as it is just one
quite specifically. Focus on what you have accomplished and how
aspect of your application to the college. Maintain your sense
these experiences have helped shape who you are.
of humor and appreciate the fact that the college official may be equally anxious in his or her desire to impress you!
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