What are the key things to know before a college interview?

I've got a college interview coming up, and I'm not sure what's essential to know beforehand. Should I be focusing on certain topics or practicing specific skills? Any advice or tips would be super helpful!

Here are some useful tips to prepare for a college interview:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the College: It's important to have some knowledge about the college. This includes understanding its mission, major programs of study, student culture, and core values. This will not only help in answering any questions about why you have chosen this college but also demonstrate your interest and commitment to this institution.

2. Know Your Application Inside Out: Be ready to elaborate on any part of your application. This could include your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, or personal statements. Be prepared to discuss any major events or experiences that have shaped you as a person.

3. Prepare for Standard Interview Questions: College interviews often ask questions like "How do you plan to contribute to our campus?", "How have your past experiences prepared you for this?", or "What do you want to major in and why?" Practice these questions and have thoughtful, specific answers prepared.

4. Develop a List of Questions: An interview isn't just for the college to get to know you—it's also an opportunity for you to learn more about the college. Develop important questions to ask your interviewer. This could include questions about specific academic programs, campus culture, student resources, or anything else about the college you're genuinely interested in.

5. Practice Active Listening: Pay close attention to the interviewer, don’t interrupt, and give thoughtful responses. Show that you're not only listening but comprehending what they're saying.

6. Be Yourself: Above all, don’t try to shape yourself into the person you think the college is looking for. Be genuine, as authenticity tends to resonate more with interviewers.

Remember, even at colleges where interviews are offered, they usually don't make or break your application. Rather they are a chance for the college to get to know you a little better, and for you to learn more about the college. So, no need to be too nervous—just consider it as a conversation, not an interrogation. Good luck!