What should I know for a Kenyon College interview?

I'm preparing for my Kenyon College interview and would love some tips. What kind of questions can I expect, and how can I prepare myself to stand out? Any advice on how to make a great impression would be awesome!

First of all, it's important to remember that an interview is really about having a conversation. Approach it like a chat where you're sharing your interests, future plans, and getting to know more about the college.

Kenyon is known for its strong emphasis on the literary arts, so be prepared to discuss your reading habits, writing practices, or any other ways you engage with literature or the arts if relevant.

It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with Kenyon's academic programs, campus culture, and community values. Knowing specific reasons why you're choosing Kenyon will be impressive to your interviewer in demonstrating your interest in the college. Don't just highlight academic reasons. Mention something unique about the campus culture or extracurricular opportunities that drew you in.

Common interview questions often relate to your academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, what you plan to contribute to the college, potential challenges you may face in transitioning to college life, or how you handle failures and learn from them.

To stand out, the key is to be authentic and enthusiastic. Show that you've taken the time to learn about Kenyon and carefully considered how it aligns with your goals. Make sure your responses reflect who you are and your unique experiences. Be ready to talk about hobbies or interests not directly related to academics.

As for making a good impression, be respectful, punctual, dress appropriately (business casual is generally a safe bet), and be sure to follow up with a thank you note to your interviewer.

Researching interview experiences of other Kenyon applicants can also be helpful as it can give you a sense of what to expect. Good luck! You've got this.