What to expect in a Washington University undergraduate admissions interview?

I'm planning to apply to Washington University in St. Louis, and I'm curious about their undergraduate interview process. What types of questions do they typically ask interviewees, and how can I best prepare to showcase my strengths during the interview?

At Washington University in St. Louis, interviews are usually conducted by alumni or admissions staff. You can expect the conversation to be casual and informative. It's important to stay relaxed, speak honestly, and let your interests and passions guide the conversation.

Common questions typically revolve around your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and future goals, as well as why you're interested in Washington University. Questions could include:

1. Why are you interested in Washington University?

2. Can you tell us about your favorite academic subject in high school?

3. What extracurricular activities have you been involved with in high school and what did you learn from them?

4. Can you talk about a time you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it?

To prepare for the interview, familiarize yourself with Washington University’s offerings that align with your interests. For instance, if you're curious about environmental science, be conversant with specific classes, professors, or initiatives you could participate in at the university.

Also, reflect on your high school activities and experiences to select a few key points that highlight your strengths and achievements. You may want to discuss a particular project or initiative you led, or how being a part of a certain club or team influenced your personal growth.

Remember to have a few questions of your own for the interviewer, as it demonstrates that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the school. These could be about student life, typical internships for your major, or opportunities to get involved on campus.

Overall, the main goal is for you and the university to see if you're a good fit for each other. So, aim to show the authentic you! Just be yourself, demonstrate enthusiasm, and make sure your uniqueness shines through in the conversation.