What are Lafayette College admission interviews like?

I'm curious about what to expect in a Lafayette College admission interview. Are they pretty formal, or more like a casual conversation? Any tips on how I should prepare to make a good impression?

Lafayette College admission interviews generally take on a conversational tone. Think of it as a chance for you to discuss your educational goals, achievements so far, interests and passions in a more personal and direct manner. While the atmosphere might be informal, it's still important to approach it with seriousness and respect, as you would any interview.

There are a couple of things you can do to give a good impression:

1. Research Lafayette College: You should know specifics about the school itself and why it's a good fit for you. For example, what attracted you to the college? It could be their small class settings, specific programs you're interested in, or unique extracurricular activities on campus.

2. Know Yourself: You should be prepared to answer questions about your high school experience, academic interests, and extracurricular activities. An example might be discussing an instance whether you've taken initiative or demonstrated leadership in running a school club or worked to overcome a particularly challenging point in your academic career. It's about showcasing your interests and how they align with Lafayette's offerings.

3. Prepare Some Questions: Having thoughtful questions ready shows your interest in the school and the conversation at hand. Examples can include asking about specific programs, student life, or even the interviewer's own experiences at the college.

4. Practice: Although it’s important to convey your genuine self, practicing beforehand always helps. It does not mean you need to rehearse a script but getting comfortable speaking about yourself, your goals, and your fit to the college can help you feel more relaxed when it's the real thing.

Remember, your goal in the interview is to come across as engaging, thoughtful, and eager to contribute to Lafayette's community. Making a good impression also includes basic interview etiquette—be on time, dress appropriately, express gratitude for the opportunity to interview. Good luck!