What can I expect in the University of Pennsylvania alumni interview?

I have an alumni interview for the University of Pennsylvania coming up. Do they focus on specific types of questions? I'm eager to make a great impression, so any advice on what to expect would be really helpful.

The University of Pennsylvania alumni interviews usually serve two purposes. First, they help the admissions office to gather more personalized information about you, like your interest in the university and your extracurricular activities. Second, they are a chance for you to learn more about the school, which can be especially helpful if you have not been able to visit the campus in person.

The questions asked during these interviews can vary greatly depending on the alumni interviewer, but there are a few common threads you can expect. The bulk of the discussion will center around your academic interests, extracurricular involvement, and career aspirations. They may ask why you're interested in your chosen field of study and what sparked that interest.

Interviewers typically want to know why you've applied to UPenn specifically. Be prepared to talk about classes, clubs, or departments you find interesting and why they align with your academic and personal goals. In other words, show them you've done your homework on UPenn and are genuinely interested.

You may be asked about your high school experience and about a challenging situation you faced and how you handled it. Questions about your hobbies, your passions, and what you do in your free time also tend to come up in these discussions.

Remember to prepare a few questions of your own about student life and academics at UPenn, as this not only shows your interest, but can give you a better idea of the school’s culture and community.

Last but not least, be professional and respectful during your interview, but don't forget to let your personality shine. They want to get to know you as a unique individual. The focus is on conversation, rather than interrogation. Good luck!