A college interview provides students with additional information that they are uncertain of. The interview is an opportunity to learn more about who you are as a person, what your interests are and how you will be able to benefit from the institution.
Before your interview, as a student, it is important to conduct your own research on the institution and gather as much information as possible. This will help you determine if the institution best suits your academic needs.
If you had the option of attending a college interview, always try to make the effort to attend. It indicates that you are interested in attending the institution and increases your chances of gaining admission. Many students attend the interview ready to answer questions but tend to forget that it’s important to ask interesting questions that spark their curiosity.
The purpose of an interview is to get to know students outside of what’s on the application form itself. Not many colleges or institutions offer a one-on-one interview unless you set up an appointment with an academic advisor or student counsellor.
The most common college questions that student advisors ask:
- Briefly tell me about yourself?
- Why are you interested in this academic institution?
- What is it that interests you to study xyz?
- What are your academic strengths?
- What career path do you plan on pursuing?
How to prepare for questions you did not expect?
The above-mentioned questions are not the only questions they may ask you. Regardless of how much you have prepared, there is a chance of being asked questions that you were least expecting. There is no need to be nervous as long as you answer the question as honestly as possible. The main purpose is to come off as conversational but also well-prepared. You might also be able to incorporate your responses from the previously answered questions. The best way to prepare yourself for an interview is to ask a relative to ask you potential questions and respond as if you were in an interview. This way you will feel less overwhelmed and feel more confident for the interview process.
Why should you ask questions during your interview?
Asking questions often indicates that you are interested in the institution and what they have to offer you as a student. It also demonstrates that you are engaged in the conversation and have been actively listening to what the interviewer has been saying throughout the interview.
What are good questions to ask a student advisor?
- What advice would you give a first-year student?
- What do you wish you would have known as a first-year student?
- What would you have done differently as a first-year student?
- Have you participated in any campus events or traditions?
- How was your first-year campus experience?
These types of questions are a good way of showing that you have done your research and most people tend to enjoy speaking about and sharing their college experience.
