I got an interview invitation from Rice University and I'm super excited! What should I expect, and how can I prepare to make a great impression? Any tips would be appreciated!
Congrats on getting an interview invitation! Preparing for a college interview can feel daunting, but the interview is a fantastic way to personalize your application and share more about yourself. Here are a few tips to bring your best self to your Rice admissions interview:
1. Research the University: Before your interview, make sure you know about Rice's mission, values, programs, and resources. What about Rice specifically attracted you to apply? Identify specific professors, courses, research opportunities, or community programs that you're excited about and can discuss during your interview. These should be things that are truly unique to Rice, not general categories like "excellent professors" that can be found anywhere - instead, name a particular professor whose work intrigues you.
2. Prepare Answers to Common Questions: While every interview is unique, there are a few common questions you might be asked, like why you chose your prospective major, how you've navigated a challenge in your life, how you contribute to your current community, and what you hope to achieve at Rice. Practice your responses to these questions. You can find a list of common questions, as well as guidance on how to respond and sample answers, on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/15-major-college-interview-questions-to-prepare-for
3. Ask Quality Questions: The interview isn't just about them getting to know you; it's also about you getting to know them. Show your enthusiasm and engagement by asking specific questions about the academic and social experience at Rice. Avoid questions with answers readily available on Rice's website. CollegeVine also has suggestions for some strong questions you might ask: https://blog.collegevine.com/9-meaningful-questions-to-ask-during-your-college-interview/
4. Prepare Examples and Stories: It's one thing to say you're diligent or passionate - it's another to tell a story that shows it. Prepare a few short anecdotes from your high school experience that highlight your skills, interests, and character traits.
5. Keep it Conversational: While it's important to prepare for your interview, remember that it should be a conversation, not a robotic question-and-answer session. Listen to what your interviewer is saying and respond thoughtfully. Show your curiosity, passion, and humility throughout the conversation.
6. Stay Professional: Although the interview should be conversational, maintain professionalism in your demeanor, attire, and communication. You do not need to wear a full suit, but your outfit should be neat, clean, and relatively conservative.
7. Practice a Mock Interview: If possible, do a mock interview with a teacher, counselor, or parent. This practice will help you feel more comfortable and allow you to get feedback on your responses.
Finally, don’t forget to send a note of appreciation to your interviewer within 24 hours of your interview. This gesture demonstrates your politeness and confirms your interest in Rice. CollegeVine's blog also has guidance on how to make this note as effective as possible: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-college-interview-thank-you-email/
Good luck, and be yourself! You got this!
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.