Several months ago, we discussed the importance of demonstrating interest when applying to college. This month, we’re diving deeper into one of the best ways to demonstrate interest (when available): interviews.
While most colleges no longer require interviews, many still offer optional interviews and those colleges tend to be the schools that really care about demonstrated interest. I understand why an interview can sound intimidating, but rather than viewing them as a daunting hurdle, think of it as an opportunity to showcase your genuine interest in the college. And the best way to do that? Preparation!
Research, Research, Research
Before you step into the interview, arm yourself with knowledge about the school. Familiarize yourself with:
Academic programs: Know which programs align with your interests and goals.
Campus culture: Explore student organizations, traditions, and values that resonate with you.
Recent news: Stay updated on developments or initiatives at the school that excite you.
Displaying how much research you’ve done during the interview will show the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in becoming a part of their community. A tip I generally give my students is to draft your “Why Us” or “Why This Major” essay before your interview (if the college has one). This is a great way to kill two birds with one stone!
Reflect on Your Goals
Take time to think about your academic and personal aspirations. Ask yourself:
Why do you want to attend this particular school?
How do their programs align with your current career goals?
What unique contributions can you make to their campus community?
Being clear on your goals, even though they’ll likely evolve with time, will help you articulate your reasons for applying. That, in turn, creates stronger responses.
Practice Common Interview Questions
While you can’t predict every question you’ll be asked, preparing for common interview questions can help ease your nerves. Consider practicing your answers to questions like:
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in our school?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Describe a challenge you’ve overcome.
What do you do outside of school?
Confidence is key in interviews. Practicing your responses will allow you to communicate more confidently and clearly during the actual interview.
Come With Questions
An interview is a two-way street, and asking thoughtful questions can showcase your interest. Prepare a few questions in advance that reflect your research and goals, such as:
Can you tell me more about the opportunities for undergraduate research in my field of interest?
What are the most popular student organizations on campus?
How does the college support students in career development?
Asking insightful questions not only helps you have a strong interview, but also helps you assess whether the college is a good fit for you.
Practice Active Listening
During the interview, it’s essential to listen carefully to your interviewer’s responses. Active listening shows respect and allows you to engage more meaningfully in the conversation. If your interviewer mentions a program or aspect of campus life that excites you, don’t hesitate to elaborate on how it aligns with your interests. This demonstrates that you are not only prepared but also genuinely invested in the dialogue.
Be Yourself
While preparation is crucial, authenticity is equally important. Remember that interviews are an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know you as a person. Share your passions, experiences, and aspirations honestly.
There won’t be any “gotcha” questions, as you’ll likely only be asked questions about yourself. Think of the interview as a way to put a face to the application.
Send a Thank You Email
After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email, where you mention specific points from your conversation that you found particularly interesting. This simple gesture can leave a lasting positive impression on the interviewer.
Ultimately, preparing for college interviews doesn’t have to be stressful. Embrace the opportunity, be yourself, and let your passion shine through. If you’re looking for more assistance with interview prep, contact Orbit College Counseling today!