What should I expect from a University of Pennsylvania undergraduate admissions interview?

I'm applying to UPenn and I heard they conduct alumni interviews for admissions. What kind of questions do they ask in these interviews, and how should I prepare? Any tips on what they're looking for during the conversation?

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) alumni conversations are often conducted by alumni of the university. These conversations are typically relaxed and intended to give prospective students a chance to express their genuine interests, and reasons for choosing UPenn, and to learn more about the student beyond their application materials. The alumni conversations are not evaluative and do not influence admissions decisions. Unlike an admissions interview, which some schools offer, this isn't part of how the school evaluates your application to Penn.

Here are some commonly asked questions:

1. Can you tell me a bit about yourself? (This is often the opening question and your answer should give a brief overview of who you are, your interests, and what you hope to pursue at UPenn.)

2. Why are you interested in UPenn and what makes it a good fit for you?

3. What do you want to study and why?

4. What extracurricular activities have you been involved in?

5. How have you contributed to your school community?

6. What do you hope to achieve at UPenn and how do you see yourself contributing to the campus community?

7. Can you share an example of a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?

In preparation for your alumni conversations, you should:

1. Review your application: Remember what you wrote in your essays and be prepared to talk more about those experiences or ideas.

2. Know UPenn well: Be familiar with the programs, traditions, and campus culture at UPenn. Make sure your reasons for wanting to attend UPenn are specific and not generic statements that could apply to any elite school.

3. Have a clear idea about your intended major: If you have a specific major in mind, be prepared to talk about why you're interested in this area of study.

4. Think about your strengths and accomplishments: Have a few examples ready to show your passions, leadership, interests, skills, and contributions to your community.

5. Prepare questions for the interviewer: It's a two-way dialogue, not an interrogation, so you should ask thoughtful questions related to the alumni's experience at UPenn, their thoughts on the university, etc.

Remember, the goal of the conversation is to learn more about you beyond what's on paper. There's no right or wrong answer to these questions - the goal is to present an authentic representation of yourself. Lastly, remember to thank your interviewer for their time afterward, as it's always appreciated and leaves a positive lasting impression. Good luck!