Finding the right college requires serious preparation.
While some colleges and universities simply require prospective students to submit an application packet and test scores, many also require an admissions interview. This provides the school an opportunity to evaluate your maturity, clearness of purpose and enthusiasm for the school. While the thought of an interview may be nerve-wracking, with a little preparation and practice you can be at ease during the process.
Do Your Homework
Know the institution well, advises popular financial aid website Fastweb. Research the school and find out facts such as when it was established, its mission and its top programs. Take the time to learn about the traditions, housing and even the team mascots. Being comfortable with the campus details will show your interviewer you've given your application serious consideration. It also will allow you to ask more perceptive questions and get beyond the superficial, thus helping you when the time comes to decide which school to attend.
Dress the Part
One of the most confusing aspects of the admissions interview is dress. While there is no one right answer, you do want to reflect on how you can best demonstrate your seriousness and personality at the same time. And while a tuxedo, formal gown or suit probably is too dressy, conversely, a T-shirt and flip-flops is too casual. Remember, your purpose is to convince the admissions officer that you are mature and intelligent and will be a vibrant member of the campus community. Find an outfit that says you are ready for the job of college student and will represent the college well. CollegeBoard.com also warns against chewing gum and wearing too much cologne or perfume.
Come Prepared
Take a copy of all your application materials, including your essay, resume, references and any special materials to the interview. This will show the admissions officer that you are organized and it also will provide notes for you to reference during the conversation. At the end of the interview, the admissions officer likely will offer you an opportunity to ask questions. That's why you also should have a list of prepared questions. You can ask about work study opportunities, study abroad programs and school programs of interest to you. Be prepared is a sure way to impress.
Practice
Spend some time writing potential questions the admissions officer may ask. Type these out and ask a trusted friend or parent to play the part of the interviewer. You can treat it as a full rehearsal and dress as you would for the interview as well. This has the advantage of getting you into the professional mindset as well as letting you learn how comfortable you will be in your chosen outfit. You also might want to spend time rehearsing in a mirror. The more you work through your answers, the more confident, articulate and relaxed you will be for your interview.
Lasting Impression
For admissions officers, the interview often is the deciding factor on whether to admit a student, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education. It's important to remember that you also should use the interview to decide whether the college is the right place to explore your interests. Try thinking of the admissions interview less as a test and more as a conversation, where you and the interviewer are figuring out whether you're a good fit for each other. Speak openly about your goals, concerns and accomplishments, and ask how the college will support your goals. This approach demonstrates maturity and most certainly will help your admissions interviewer remember the conversation.
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