What makes a college interview good or bad?

I'm curious about the factors that can make a college interview go well or poorly. What are some of the dos and don'ts, and how can I ensure mine goes smoothly?

A college interview can be a great opportunity for you to demonstrate your personality, interests, and motivation to attend a particular school. Here are some guidelines on how to make the interview go smoothly:

Dos:

1. Research the school: It's crucial to familiarize yourself with the college's programs, culture, and values. This shows your genuine interest in the school and can provide substance for your conversation with the interviewer.

2. Dress professionally: First impressions count, so aim to dress in business casual attire.

3. Practice but don't rehearse: You should prepare for common interview questions by considering your responses but try not to memorize your answers word for word. You want to appear genuine, not scripted.

4. Be yourself: Authenticity is key, and interviewers are skilled in spotting when students aren't being truthful.

5. Ask thoughtful questions: This demonstrates you're active in your learning process and helps engage the interviewer.

Don'ts:

1. Don’t be late: This can easily be avoided by leaving early and factoring in delays.

2. Don’t use slang or colloquial language: It's important to speak professionally, even though the interview might feel casual.

3. Don’t speak negatively about yourself or others: Negativity tends to leave a bad impression.

4. Don’t ignore body language: Good eye contact, a firm handshake, and a positive demeanor can leave a great impression.

5. Don’t forget to follow up: Send a thank you note or email to your interviewer after the interview to show appreciation for their time.

Remember, even at highly selective schools, many students are admitted without interviewing. Interviews are just a single piece of the overall admissions process. Be prepared, show enthusiasm, be polite, and make the most of the opportunity. If something does go sideways, don't worry, as most interviews are considered in the context of all your application materials, and one poor interview isn't likely to be a deal-breaker. Good luck!