How can I prepare for a Hobart and William Smith Colleges interview?

I've got an interview with Hobart and William Smith Colleges coming up, and I'm pretty stressed about it. What kinds of questions should I expect, and how can I best prepare to make a strong impression?

An interview, whether for a job or for college, can indeed be stressful, so it's understandable if you're feeling anxious. Considering that Hobart and William Smith Colleges value engagement and commitment, there's a good chance they'd want you to reflect that during your interview.

Let's break down your preparation into three parts: understanding the school, crafting your story, and familiarizing yourself with common interview questions.

Understanding the School: Do thorough research about the college's offerings, culture, and achievements. Look at majors and courses you're interested in, student clubs, faculty researchers, and the types of events they hold on campus. They'll likely ask why you want to attend their college, so having an answer that demonstrates your familiarity and alignment with their values will be beneficial.

Crafting Your Story: The interviewer will want to know more about you beyond your application. Think about your experiences and how they have influenced your journey thus far and your future goals. Rather than listing your accomplishments, focus on the impact of these experiences on your personal growth.

Common Interview Questions: You'll likely be asked about yourself, your strengths and weaknesses, academic interests, extracurricular activities, and what you can bring to the campus. Popular questions might include "Why do you want to attend our college?", "What is one thing you’re most proud of?" or "Who is someone you look up to and why?".

I would advise rehearsing your answers, but not memorizing them to the point where they sound rehearsed. Authenticity is key, and the interviewer will appreciate answers that come from the heart.

Practicing with a friend or family member can also be very helpful. Another tip is to prepare a few questions for the interviewer. This is an excellent way to demonstrate your genuine interest in the institution. Questions regarding academic programs, extracurricular activities, or specifics of campus life can be beneficial.

Finally, show up on time, express gratitude for the opportunity, and try to relax and be yourself. Remember, this is just as much an opportunity for you to determine if the college is a good fit for you as it is for them to learn more about you.