Yale Regular Decision Interview Tips?

I'm preparing for my Yale regular decision interview and feeling a bit anxious about it. Does anyone have any tips on how to make the best impression or what to expect during the interview?

Absolutely, I'm glad you're preparing ahead of time. Here are some tips that could help:

First and foremost, remember to treat your interview as a conversation rather than an interrogation. The interviewers are members of the Yale community (generally alumni, but they may also be current Yale seniors) who would like to get to know you as an individual. Displaying genuine curiosity and respect for their experiences at Yale can create a more engaging dialogue.

In terms of preparation, research Yale thoroughly. Demonstrating knowledge about specific aspects of Yale, such as academic programs, campus organizations, or community initiatives that are unique to the university, will affirm your interest in the school and make the conversation more meaningful.

While discussing these aspects, make sure to explain why they matter to you and how you plan to contribute to the community. For instance, if you're keen on joining Yale's Model United Nations team because of your interest in international relations, explain why. This also gives you a golden opportunity to showcase your achievements or experiences outside of your academic life.

Interviewers may ask you about current events or books you've read lately, so it's good to stay informed and have a few discretion points ready. This not only helps demonstrate that you're intellectually curious, but also that you're capable of discussing critical issues with maturity.

Practice answering common interview questions. You can even do mock interviews with family or friends or in front of a mirror. For a list of questions that you're likely to encounter, as well as detailed guidance on how to respond, you can check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/15-major-college-interview-questions-to-prepare-for

And last, but certainly not least, remember to be yourself. Authenticity is the key to leaving a lasting impression. While it's reasonable to feel a little nervous, try to relax and enjoy the process. It's a chance to express who you are beyond your application.

Good luck with your interview!