What to Expect at School Admission Interviews
Some colleges require an admissions interview before accepting students into their school. This allows the college to come to know the student as a real person, rather than just as a piece of paper or an essay. Getting to the interview point is an accomplishment in and of itself, but if you want to get accepted to your dream college, you’re going to have to put in the extra work to prepare yourself.
Here are a few tips and things to expect at a college admissions interview.
Questions About Academics
You should expect to be asked questions about your academic record. Now, this does not mean you should memorize the grades you received, though knowing your GPA would be helpful. Rather, it means you should spend time preparing to discuss your academic life. What subject do you find most challenging? Which is your favorite and least favorite? What is your favorite book? What are your study habits? How challenging was your course load for you? These are just some of the possible questions you may be asked. Try to think of all the different questions an interviewer might ask about your academic career.
Questions About Extracurricular Activities
Another aspect you will most definitely be asked about is your life outside of the classroom. You may be asked about the sorts of extracurricular activities you are a part of or the clubs you’re a member of. You may be asked about whether or not you hold a part time job after school or if you do volunteer work. While these items will most definitely be listed on your college application as well, the interviewers want to hear you talk about them. This is your opportunity to elaborate on your activities and discuss why you partake in them and how you feel they have enriched your life in some way.
Questions About Your Goals
You should also expect to be asked about your goals in life. Be prepared to talk about your goals as a student in high school and in college. You should also be prepared to discuss how you plan to use your degree for your career. What are you going to major in? Why have you selected this major? How do you see yourself fitting in with our school? How will you use your degree when you graduate? How will the college experience help you achieve your long-term goals? All of these questions are possibilities, so prepare accordingly.
Your Demeanor
As far as expectations go, they work both ways. While you can expect what will happen at an interview, the interviewers also expect you to be prepared and to show them a certain amount of respect. Dress appropriately in business casual attire. Be polite and shake the hands of your interviewers upon entering the room. Arrive early so you have time to collect your thoughts. Try not to fidget or appear nervous during the interview. The interviewers know this may very well be your first interview, so some level of nervousness is to be expected. Even so, they want you to be prepared as well. Take deep cleansing breaths if you start to feel overwhelmed.
A Professional Environment
Finally, expect to be in a professional environment during your admissions interview. It will be quite a contrast from your high school, but the sooner you get used to the professional realm, the sooner you will feel comfortable. Expect people to call you Mr. or Ms. Expect people to be dressed somewhat formally and to speak properly. It can be intimidating to walk into such an environment unaware, but knowing what you will be faced with ahead of time can help tremendously.