I might have the opportunity to interview with Harvard soon, and I'm wondering what to expect. What kinds of questions do they ask, and how can I best showcase my fit for the school during the interview?
In Harvard College interviews, they typically ask questions that can't be answered by reading your application. They want to get to know you as a person, beyond your achievements, grades, and test scores.
Typically, you can expect questions about your interests, both academic and extracurricular, as well as why you're specifically interested in Harvard. They might ask about what you're passionate about, what books you've recently read, what your favorite classes are, and what your plans are for the future.
Remember, the interview is also a chance for Harvard to show off its unique qualities and convince you that it's the right school for you. So, don't be shy about asking your interviewer about their own experiences and about things that are important to you in your college search - they are there to sell the college to you, too!
To best showcase your fit for the school, do your research ahead of time. Learn about what makes Harvard unique and identify specific strengths, opportunities, or programs that align with your interests and goals. Meditation, practice, and preparedness can go a long way in helping you feel at ease during your interview.
Remember, they aren't there to trick you or make you feel uncomfortable. They genuinely want to get to know you better and try to understand how you would contribute to the Harvard community. Showcasing your real, authentic self can go a long way – they want students who are genuine, passionate, and excited to contribute to their campus.
Remember: relax and be yourself, because at the end of the day, they're trying to get to know you as a person, so they can understand how you would fit into their community. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.