Interview Tips
How to Put Your Best Foot Forward
Do...
- Be genuine. Be yourself. Give us a personal sense of who you are.
- Come prepared to exchange information; share information about your social and academic life and be prepared to ask about the College. The best decisions are formulated鈥攐n both sides鈥攚ith an optimum of information.
- Elaborate on topics. We love to hear your opinions and want to know more about your passions and your interests.
- Brag (don鈥檛 be modest). Expound on your accomplishments in student government, community service, athletics, and other extracurricular activities. Tell us about your myriad experiences during the past 17 or 18 years.
- Invest some time (if possible) in a campus tour, chatting with students, browsing the library, sampling the food, before or after the interview.
- Be prompt and allow time for traffic and the like. We don鈥檛 evaluate students negatively if they arrive late, but the interview may be shortened to accommodate others who are scheduled later that day.
- Look the interviewer in the eye . You will appear confident (even if you have butterflies).
- Remember to breathe鈥攁nd even smile. This should be fun!
Don't...
- Stress over what to wear. Be comfortable and use good judgment.
- Chew gum. It gets in the way of clear articulation.
- Answer a ringing cellphone. Turn off all electronic devices before you begin your interview.
- Memorize your presentation. Informal conversation is far less stressful.
- Be concerned if the interviewer takes notes. It helps the interviewer remember the important things you said so that they can be included in your file.
- Hesitate to cancel if you are ill. We understand that illness happens and is beyond your control.
- Ignore red flags on your transcript. This is your opportunity to explain weak areas and discuss how you have learned to overcome them. No one is perfect.
- Forget to ask questions (bring a list).
- Neglect to keep in touch after the interview. As your college search progresses you may find you have unanswered questions. Call or drop us a note. We always enjoy hearing from you.