College interviews and interviews for special programs (scholarships, honors/scholars programs, etc.) can be a source of stress for students, but the following guidelines can help students feel more prepared and confident.
Be proactive in scheduling
Some schools and programs may reach out to you about an interview, but some expect you to seek out the opportunity/sign up for an interview, and they may have limited slots available.
Know your audience
Is your interview with a student, faculty member, alumnus, admissions officer? Will your interview have any bearing on your application or is it largely informational?
Update your resume
Consider emailing a resume in advance or bringing one to the interview.
Research the institution and relevant programs
Be sure you can discuss what you like about the school/program and be able to provide specific examples. Personal experiences about visiting (if applicable) can also be a great topic of discussion.
Be prepared for the interviewer’s questions
While there are many potential topics, some common ones include:
Experience and interests, academic and in free time
Strengths and challenges (character traits, aptitudes, experiences)
Biggest achievement, leadership role, creative endeavor
Favorite book, movie, person
Potential major/career goals and potential activities in college
Reasons for interest in the college or program (academic, social, goals)
Prepare questions for the interviewer
It’s ok to have questions written down if you’re not sure you’ll remember them. Again, there are many potential topics, but some common ones include:
Interviewer’s major and how it impacted career trajectory
Ways the alumni network has been a part of life since graduation
Thoughts on career services at the college
Favorite part about the school and/or college experience
Favorite place to eat on campus or in town
Something interviewer wished would have been different about school/college experience
College planning advice the interviewer wishes they would have received at your age
Decide what to wear
Whether in-person or online, you’ll likely feel more relaxed in comfortable clothing. Business casual is usually a safe choice. It’s perfectly ok to dress in a way that matches your personality, but it might be wise to avoid overly casual clothing.
Consider location
If in person, be prepared for a potentially noisy environment (ex: coffee shop) or very quiet one (ex: campus office). If Zoom/online, be sure you have strong wi-fi, are in a room without distraction/noise if possible, and have a background that looks presentable and has decent lighting.
Keep basic etiquette in mind
There’s no need to overwhelm yourself with too many etiquette rules. Here are a few basics:
Thank your interviewer for meeting with you
If in person, it might help to practice a good handshake
Maintain eye contact/remain engaged in the conversation
Reduce distractions: Turn off cell phone and minimize visible or noisy “fidget” behaviors, like playing with hair, clicking a pen, or tapping the table
Speak clearly and loud enough for the interviewer to hear without straining
Follow up in a day or two after the meeting with a thank you email or hand-written note
Rehearse
Some people prefer to “wing it”, but it can also be helpful to take some notes and/or do mock interviews to practice. You don’t want to sound like you’ve memorized everything and have a script, but practicing can make you feel more comfortable in the actual interview.
Put the interview in context
It’s ok, and very common, to feel a little nervous. Interviewers understand that this experience may be new or a little awkward for you, and they will want to help you feel comfortable.
Most of the time, interviewers are really just interested in learning more about you and how they can help you learn more about the school/program. Most general college interviews will not affect your application in a negative way.
For interviews where something is at stake (ex: scholarships, special programs, etc.), the final decision comes down to a lot of factors, not just one. Your interview is one component, but many others, including institutional priorities, are considered as well.
Consider the benefits of the interviewing experience
You will likely interview many times in your life, and college interviews are great learning experiences. Be easy on yourself. When you think back on your interview, remember to highlight the parts that went well.
Use this opportunity to refine your interviewing skills. If you have multiple interviews, learn from each one and notice yourself getting more and more comfortable each time.
Wishing you the best in your interviews!
At Growing2College, we provide high school and college guidance, including interview preparation. Request a free 20-min consultation to learn more about how we can be helpful.
Kate Pedigo, M.Ed. NCC is an Independent Educational Consultant and founder of Growing2College. Join us on social media for college planning updates, tips, and resources: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn
