What are good things to say during a college interview?

I have a college interview coming up, and I want to make a good impression. Are there any specific things I should say or topics I should cover to improve my chances of acceptance?

Certainly! In a college interview, you want to show your passion for your chosen field, demonstrate your curiosity, highlight experiences that have shaped you, and convey your interest in that particular college.

1. Passion: Be sure to discuss your academic interests or intended major—what sparks that fire of curiosity within you? Maybe you spent weeks diving into a research project for AP History and you want to talk about that process. Or perhaps you have a passion for biology and start each morning by reading a recent medical journal. Be specific about which topics within your chosen major interest you. Are you a Math major fascinated by the logic and complexity of abstract algebra or does the applicability of statistics enchant you?

2. Demonstrating curiosity: Colleges look for learners—students who will thrive in the classroom, yes, but also ones who will continue learning outside the classroom. Discuss specific instances that highlight this voracious appetite for learning. This might be a personal project you worked on, like learning a new programming language or independently reading classic literature.

3. Personal Growth: Colleges want to see that their students can grow and adapt. Have there been significant experiences where you've developed key skills, overcome obstacles, or adapted to new situations? For example, if you launched a community service initiative, how have you grown as a leader?

4. College Specificity: Be prepared to state why you’re a good fit for the college you are interviewing for. What specific classes, clubs, or programs is the school known for that match your interests? If you're applying to Carleton, for example, and you're interested in biology, you'd certainly want to mention their iconic research opportunities like the Cowling Arboretum.

5. Your Post-College Vision: Discuss what you see yourself doing after you graduate. While it's okay if you're not completely sure, having a sense of your future path—whether that is graduate school, a particular job, or an entrepreneurial dream—shows that you are serious.

Finally, remember that the interviewer wants to know about you. It's alright to pause before answering to collect your thoughts, and it's okay to proudly share your accomplishments. End the interview by expressing your thanks for the opportunity and affirming your interest in their institution. The key is to be authentic and let your natural passion shine through!