What do I say in a Haverford College interview?

I'm prepping for a Haverford College interview and could use some advice. What kinds of questions might they ask, and how should I best present myself? Any tips for making a good impression would be awesome!

Your Haverford College interview is an excellent opportunity to make a personal connection with someone who knows the college well, usually an alum. Note that the interview is not a formal part of Haverford's application review process and is essentially optional. However, it can certainly provide you with valuable insight into the school and give you a chance to present yourself beyond your application documents. Here are some suggestions on how to prepare:

Understanding Haverford's ethos and culture will help you present yourself in a relevant, thoughtful manner. Haverford values intellectual curiosity, student autonomy, and inclusive community. They have an Honor Code that guides life at Haverford and is deeply ingrained in their culture. Do some research on it and think about how it resonates with your values and experiences.

As for common questions, be ready to talk about yourself, your high school, and your personal and academic interests. You might be asked why you are interested in Haverford and how you believe you will contribute to its community. The interviewer may ask about your strengths, the challenges you've overcome, your favorite academic subjects, or your extracurricular activities, goals after college, etc. Prepare authentic stories and reflect on your experiences to exemplify your points.

Also, prepare your own questions for the interviewer. This is a chance for you to delve deeper into the Haverford community, academic offerings, or student life. Ask thoughtful questions that would not be easily found on the college's website.

During the interview, be yourself and convey your genuine interest in Haverford and its unique aspects that align with your values and goals. Make sure to use a friendly tone, maintain eye contact, and listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and comments. Remember to express appreciation for their time and insights at the end.

Lastly, remember that it's not just about making a "good impression" or saying what you think they want to hear. It should be a two-way conversation, where you're evaluating if Haverford is a good fit for you too.

Best of luck with your interview preparation - you're going to do great!