What do universities look for in interviews?

I'm trying to figure out what admissions committees are looking for during interviews. Is it more about my resume, how I present myself, or how well I fit with the school?

In college admissions interviews, the goal is not to evaluate your academic record (they've already got that from your application), but rather to gain more insight into who you are as a person and how you would fit into the college community. Here are some key things they often look for:

1. Enthusiasm and Interest in the College: Demonstrate your interest in that particular school. Be prepared with knowledge about what makes the school unique and how you envision yourself taking advantage of its resources. This can set you apart from other prospective students.

2. Communication skills: The interview is a chance to showcase your communication abilities, an important trait for future college classes and the workforce. They'll expect you to articulate your thoughts clearly and listen carefully to the interviewer.

3. Personality Traits: Colleges want to gauge attributes like maturity, integrity, sensitivity, leadership, and resilience, so be sure to let your personality shine through. You can demonstrate these traits through your responses to the interviewer’s questions.

4. Future contributions: Universities are interested in how you might contribute to their campus. If you've been deeply involved in certain activities, be sure to highlight that and express your interest in continuing similar involvement in college.

5. Your Questions: Asking insightful questions shows your genuine interest in the school and indicates that you've done your homework. Your questions can cover several topics, such as the school's culture, academic programs, or even the interviewer's own experiences.

While everyone gets a little nervous in interviews, try to relax and be yourself! Admissions interviews are an opportunity for you to share more about your interests and experiences, and to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the college. Remember, the interview is as much for you to learn about the college as it is for them to learn about you.