How should I prepare for an undergraduate admissions interview at Case Western Reserve?

I'm applying to Case Western Reserve University and have an interview as part of the undergraduate admissions process. What kind of questions might they ask, and how can I best prepare to showcase my fit for the school?

Preparing for a college admissions interview can seem daunting, but it's primarily an opportunity for you to discuss your interests and learn more about the school. Here's some advice to help you shine during your Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) interview:

1. Understand the School's Unique Attributes: Familiarize yourself with CWRU's ethos, academic programs, extracurriculars, and community. Schools value applicants who can articulate why they're a good fit. For instance, you might focus on CWRU's strong programs in engineering, nursing or business, or its emphasis on collaborative learning.

2. Refresh Your Memory: Review your application before the interview. You should be able to speak confidently and clearly about any activities or experiences you've mentioned in your application.

3. Prepare to Discuss Your Interests and Goals: Be ready to discuss your academic interests and career goals. Connect these to CWRU's programs or opportunities. For instance, if you're interested in biomedical engineering— a field in which CWRU excels— talk about why you're drawn to this field and how studying it at CWRU will foster your growth.

4. Expect Standard Interview Questions: These could include: "Why are you interested in our institution?"; "Can you tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge?"; "What skills have you developed through your extracurricular activities?" Practice your responses, but also be prepared for less common questions that might be specific to the school or your interests.

5. Prepare Your Own Questions: Your questions can demonstrate your serious interest in CWRU. It's a good idea to ask questions that show you've done your homework and that can help you learn more about the aspects of campus life that are important to you.

6. Practice: Mock interviews can help you gain confidence and polish your answers. Get a family member or mentor to ask you typical questions, or consider setting up a practice interview with a school counselor.

Remember, the interview is not only about you answering questions, but also a chance for you to learn more about CWRU. Approach it with enthusiasm, be yourself, and you'll do great!