What are the top questions to ask in a college interview?

I'm prepping for my upcoming college interviews, and I'm wondering which questions I should ask to make a good impression. Are there any must-ask questions to get insights from the interviewers? Also, any specific suggestions for elite colleges?

Preparing for a college interview is vital. Having a set of good questions ready for your interviewer demonstrates your thoughtfulness, interest, and initiative, and it can definitely leave a positive impression. Here are some ideas:

1. "Could you tell me about the academic culture at your school? How competitive or collaborative is it?"

2. "What is being done to support students' mental health and overall wellness at the college?"

3. "What would you say is a unique quality or aspect of this institution that sets it apart from others?"

4. "Could you share any unique traditions or annual events on campus that serve to build the university community?"

5. "What resources does this college have in place to ensure the success of its students—academically, personally, and professionally?"

6. "How does the school engage with the local community? Are there opportunities for outreach or community service?"

7. "How do faculty and students at this school interact outside the classroom, if at all?"

8. "How do students typically spend their weekends? What's the balance between studying and social life?"

For more selective colleges, consider asking more academically or career-focused questions to show your commitment to achieving in these areas, such as:

1. "Can you tell me about the resources available for conducting undergraduate research?"

2. "What kind of internships or study abroad opportunities does this college offer?"

3. "What kind of support does the university provide students in their post-graduation job search?"

4. "What kind of opportunities are there for independent study or for designing my own major?"

You can find even more examples of strong questions you could ask on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/9-meaningful-questions-to-ask-during-your-college-interview/

Just remember, your questions should be open-ended, not easily answerable by a quick look at the university's website. Good luck with your interviews!