My college interview is coming up, and I want to make a good impression. What type of outfit strikes the right balance between formal and comfortable? Any dos and don'ts for interview attire?
Dressing for a college interview is all about striking the right balance: presentable, but not over-the-top, comfortable, yet professional. Here are some ideas:
A good rule of thumb for college interviews is business casual. You don't generally want to dress as formally as you would for a job interview, but you should still make an effort to look neat and polished.
For men, a pair of khakis or dress pants and a collared shirt would be suitable. Adding a sweater or blazer can help project a more polished look, particularly in cooler weather. Make sure your shoes are clean and match your outfit.
For women, a blouse paired with a skirt or pants, or a dress, works well. If you're wearing a dress, try to keep its length appropriate - ideally, it should hit around your knee. Low to mid-height heels or neat flats would be suitable. An understated piece of jewelry can be a nice touch but avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
Stay away from loud patterns, heavy makeup, and extreme hairstyles - the focus should be on you and what you're saying, not your appearance. Always consider the setting and climate of your interview location. For instance, if you're interviewing on a college campus where you'll be walking a lot, consider wearing comfortable shoes.
Remember, don't wear anything you'll be uncomfortable in - if you're fidgeting with your clothes, it could distract from the conversation. Finally, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, but remember that the most important thing is to wear an outfit that makes you feel confident. Remember that your outfit is just one element of your interview - your answers matter the most.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.