Example of a College Interview Experience

Does anyone have examples of what their college interview was like? What kind of questions did you get asked, and did anything surprise you during the experience? Trying to get a sense of what might be coming.

Sure, I can share a general idea of how most college interviews go based on anecdotes I've heard. Remember, college interviews can differ from one institution to another, but there are some common elements you can prepare for.

Commonly, interviews will start with a sort of ice-breaker discussion to help you feel comfortable. Questions like "Tell me about yourself," "What's your favorite class in high school and why?" or "What's a recent book you read, and what did you take away from it?" are designed to help you ease into the conversation on a personal level.

Interviewers might ask you about your high school experiences, focusing not just on academics but on co-curricular and extra-curricular involvement as well. Examples include "Can you tell me about a time you faced a challenge in high school and how you overcame it?" and "How do you contribute to your school or local community?"

The central portion of the interview is often focused on your interest in the college. Questions like "Why are you interested in our institution?", "What majors or courses are you specifically interested in and why?" or "Can you tell me about a community or tradition at our school that intrigues you?"

Then, there can be a few questions that ask you to introspect and reflect, such as "Can you share an experience that changed your perspective on something?" "Tell me about a time when you collaborated with others on a project or goal," will help them understand how you grow from experiences and work with others.

Mostly, interviews end with the interviewer giving you a chance to ask questions. This is where you can show your interest in and research about the institution by asking specific, informed questions.

The surprising element for many candidates is that the interview isn't a test; it is more about getting to know you better and understanding your fit within the institution. What I've observed is that the more authentic and reflective you can be, the better you will be able to present yourself.