What should I expect in a Chapman University admission interview?

I'm preparing for a Chapman University admissions interview. What kind of questions can I expect, and how should I prepare to make a good impression?

Chapman University typically uses an interview as a chance to get to know you beyond what's on paper. They want to understand your passions, goals, and fit with the university. It's also an opportunity for you to ask questions of your own, demonstrating your investment in learning more about the school.

Questions you might encounter could fall into a few categories:

1) Personal: These might pertain to your interests or hobbies, what you enjoy when you're not focused on academics, or questions about your life experiences. For example, "Can you tell me about a book you've read lately for fun?"

2) Academic and Co-curricular Activities: These questions can focus on your academic interests, favorite subjects, extracurricular activities, or ways you wish to contribute to the Chapman community. Example questions include "Which subjects excite you the most and why?" or "How have you contributed to your high school community outside of the classroom?"

3) University-specific: They might ask why you chose Chapman, what attracts you about your prospective major, or which specific resources, programs, or opportunities at Chapman you plan to take advantage of. Expect questions like "Why do you believe Chapman is the right fit for you?"

To make a good impression, you should:

1) Research Chapman thoroughly. Understand its academic programs, culture, values, and any unique attributes such as traditions or programs that stood out to you.

2) Reflect on your personal and academic strengths, your future goals, and how Chapman aligns with these. Your responses should demonstrate how you can benefit from Chapman and reciprocally contribute to the community.

3) Practice answering potential questions. This doesn't mean scripting your responses, but familiarizing yourself with discussing your strengths, experiences, and interests.

4) Prepare questions of your own. This shows that you are genuinely interested in the school and gives you the opportunity to assess if it's a good fit for you.

5) Be authentic and polite. Let them see your personality and, importantly, remember to give them time to speak and to listen carefully to what they say.

Good luck with your preparation and the upcoming interview!