The in-person interview is something college entrance applicants dread. Many applicants don’t see the need to visit the campus if their academic achievements and test scores are good. I strongly suggest that you do not adopt this attitude. An in-person interview is a two way opportunity. First, it gives the admissions committee a chance to put a face to the name on your application. It also gives you a chance to stand out from all the other applicants that they are considering. Plus, you might spend four years of your life at the college where you are interviewing. Visiting the school allows you an opportunity to see the campus.

Students need to prepare themselves for the interview, but not panic. The interview is not a do or die scenario. It is natural to want to ace an interview. But, if you are well prepared, confident, and dress appropriately, the fact that you were interested enough to come to their campus for an in-person interview can only be in your favor.

Although the typical dress style on college campuses is very relaxed, what you wear to the interview should be more business-like. For example, I recommend for young men:

* slacks (not jeans) * dress shirt with collar (not a tee) * sports jacket * shoes (dress shoes – not sneakers or athletic shoes) *

For young women I recommend:

* nice skirt,(not mini), dress, slacks, or pantsuit * shoes (not sneakers, athletic shoes or flip-flops) * be respectful in your dress – avoid revealing styles like tube tops, halter tops, etc. * easy on the make-up *

Most college interviews are conversations in which the college gets to know you better. They get a feel for you as a person, and they confirm what they already know about you through your application, your letters of recommendation, your college essay or personal statement, and your high school transcript. Of course, the college interview is also your chance to get to know your selected colleges on a more fundamental basis and to help you prioritize the colleges to which you plan to apply.

Sitting for an on-campus interview demonstrates your personal initiative. If the admissions officer is deciding between you and a similarly qualified student who has not come to campus for an interview, you might just get the acceptance because of that factor alone.

When you are considering applying for a college you should check the policy of the college regarding the interview. You may see the word “evaluative” used, which is a term used by colleges who make mandatory interviews part of the college application process. Although uncommon, some institutions that require “evaluative” interviews are Harvard University, Wesleyan University and Haverford College. With that caliber of institution you want to prepare thoroughly for your interview so you can nail it. The competition for entrance to prestigious universities and colleges makes every part of the applications process extremely important.

The interviewer will definitely make notes in your admissions folder, which may influence the admissions decision. For these interviews, prepare as though you were preparing for a job interview. Study the college website. Be thoroughly familiar with the college viewbook. Look sharp, and be ready to discuss any and all aspects of your college application.

If you’re prepared for your interview, you can relax going into it. Everything you say should confirm what’s already in your record; there shouldn’t be any contradictions. Be professional, but be yourself and let your college interview complete your winning hand.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010 at 3:28 pm and is filed under Parenting. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.