How to Prepare
How to Prepare
Nearly every interview guide will tell you to:
- Choose modest, undistracting clothes that resemble 'business casual'.
- Be early, so that you're relaxed when the interview starts.
- Be yourself. It's much easier.
But there's more to being prepared. You should also:
- When you have an appointment arranged, particularly if an alumnus/a is interviewing you in your hometown, be sure to write down the location of your meeting and his/her name and telephone number, in case of an emergency.
- Offer to send your resume ahead. You and your interviewer will be more engaged if you both have an outline of what to talk about.
- Outline your answers to the most likely questions ahead of time. Don't memorize a script; just be ready with the facts at hand.
- Think out your questions ahead of time; it's your chance to find out about the college as well as their chance to find out about you.
- Get some exercise before the interview. You'll fidget less, seem less nervous and more composed. One actor's trick is to stretch your calves and quads before something like an interview. A more relaxed stride makes people look more "grounded".
- Bring a bottle of water. If you're ever stuck on how to answer a question, take a drink. It will minimize any awkward pause. And you might get thirsty.
- Know your test scores and GPA! Don't try to hide information like low scores or grades if you are asked. Explain any discrepancies.
- BRING A RESUME. It will lead the interviewer and allow the interviewer to focus on you and not on organizing his/her notes.
- Talk in the future tense. There will be lots of qualified candidates with folders like yours. Give a vivid picture of what you will contribute to class discussions, campus life and the community at that college.
- If your parents drive you or come with you, they should be in another room. YOU are the only person who could attend that college.
- You may be nervous. It's OK to say so. Gesture or emphasize your remarks as you would in a classroom; avoid flamboyant mannerisms or squirming in your chair. Try to maintain good eye contact, shake hands firmly (those older alumnae/alumni know that, traditionally, a younger person extends his/her hand to an older one first) and stay relaxed.
BRING A RESUME. It will lead the interview and allow the interviewer to focus on you rather than organizing his/her notes.
You may be nervous. It's OK to say so.
Follow Up
Send a thank you note to the interviewer. It is good manners; and it's an opportunity to underline any points you made in the interview.
- How do selective colleges use the interview?
- How should I prepare?
- What questions will I be asked?
- What questions could I be asked?
- What questions should I ask?