Nailing The College Interview

Ensure that when you enter the interview, you walk in armed with more than basic knowledge of the institution. It's always a plus to show that you've done your research by expressing interest in the academic department(s) you want to join, faculty members you wish to engage with, any clubs, sports or campus wide events you're looking forward to and, where possible, the interviewer. This not only allows you to appear to be prepared but also reduces the anxiety that comes from entering an interview space.

Enter the interview space like an already admitted student. Think positively and exude the attitude of someone who confidently knows that this is the school for them. But don't be arrogant! Just the right amount of confidence and ease that communicates to the interviewer that you are ready for admission because you've been preparing for this all your life (or maybe just the past couple of months, but no one's counting).

Every interview has questions, and answering these properly is what makes or breaks your interview session. Be sure to listen keenly to the question that was asked and think about your response and any possible question that can arise based on your response or as an offshoot of the original question. To help you in preparation, here are a few questions you can look out for in your interview:

What sparked your interest in this school?
What is your desired field of study? Why that field?
What subject did you enjoy most in high school?
What subject gave you the most challenge in high school?
What do you enjoy doing outside of studying?
Share a moment in your life that you would regard as being "life-changing".
In the next ten years, where do you see yourself?

Whether it's a job interview or college interview, asking questions paints the interviewee as being interested, knowledgeable and committed to the process. Get creative and dig deep! Ensure the questions you are asking aren't questions that can be answered by scanning through the schools website or this will give the impression that you are not prepared for your interview. You can ask questions like:

How does the college facilitate job placement for the students?
Is there a student to faculty streamlining initiative?
What's one thing every new student should know about this institution?

What makes students at your university different?

What are the character traits of a student who does well at your university?

What makes you proud to work at this university?

 

If your interviewer is an alum of that school, you may also consider these questions:

 

What was your experience like at the college?

What did you love most about your college that maybe other schools don't offer?

What would you have done differently during your time there?

What DIDN'T the school do well?

How did going to this school help you get to where you are today?

This is the best tip I can possibly give to you for your interviews and for life in general. Be Authentic. Be You. Now, more than ever, college recruiters are looking to ensure the most diverse population possible. So, it's very important that you present the best and most authentic version of yourself. It's very important though, that while you're being true to who you are, you maintain professionalism and poise.

Now that you have those five easy tips, it's time to schedule your interview and AIM toward success.

 

For more information on college admissions, feel free to reach out to any of our skilled college advisors at AIM Online Academy via email ([email protected]) or Instagram DM (@aimonlineacademy)!

 

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