What should I expect from a UPenn regular decision interview?

I'm planning to apply to UPenn regular decision. I've heard mixed things about the interviews and I'm not sure what to expect. Any tips on how to prepare or what they focus on during the interview?

The interview for UPenn, like many college interviews, is meant to be a conversation that helps the university learn more about you while also giving you the chance to ask questions about the school. Interviewers are often UPenn alumni who want to get a sense of your fit for the school, your academic interests, and extracurricular pursuits. They might ask you about your high school experiences, your goals in college, or your long-term aspirations.

As you prepare for the UPenn interview, it can be beneficial to take the following key steps:

1. Research: Prior to your interview, learn more about the school, its values, its various programs, and it's campus culture. Having a good understanding of what makes UPenn unique can help you align your experiences and goals with what the school has to offer.

2. Tailor answers: When asked about why you want to attend UPenn, don't just offer generic responses about the school's reputation or location in Philadelphia. Discuss your specific academic interest in relation to UPenn's particular programs, courses, or faculty. You could also mention extracurricular clubs, research opportunities, or community initiatives that align with your personal interests or career goals.

3. Reflect: Look at your own experiences and achievements, and be ready to discuss them. Be prepared to talk about significant experiences, how they have shaped you, and how you plan to contribute to the UPenn community. Your responses should not be a repetition of your application but a chance to highlight aspects of your personality and experiences not fully covered in your essays.

4. Mock interview: Consider doing a mock interview with a teacher, counsellor, or a family member. Practicing common interview questions can ease your nerves and make you more comfortable with the process.

5. Positive attitude: Lastly, show enthusiasm for UPenn and maintain a polite and positive demeanor throughout the interview.

Remember, each interviewer might have a different style, so some interviews may feel more like a casual conversation, while others may be more formal. Just be authentic and enthusiastic, and remember that the interview is an opportunity for you to learn more about the university from someone who attended it.

Good luck with your application process!