What do universities typically ask in interviews?

I'm prepping for some university interviews and I'm curious about what kinds of questions they usually ask. What should I expect and how can I prepare to make a good impression during my interview?

Interviews can vary widely depending on the university, but there are some key types of questions that interviewers tend to ask. These questions are primarily aimed at understanding who you are, what motivates you academically, and how you'd contribute to the college community.

Here are some sample questions you might want to prepare for:

1. "Tell me about yourself."

2. "Why are you interested in our college/university?"

3. "What are your academic and career goals?"

4. "Tell me about a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it."

5. "What do you like to do outside of academic pursuits?"

Generally, interviewers want to see students who are thoughtful, articulate, and passionate about their educational journey. They also appreciate evidence that a student has a solid understanding of the university—its culture, its offerings, and how they align with the student's goals and values.

To get ready for the interview:

- Research the school: Understand what makes the university unique and why it's a good fit for you especially.

- Reflect on your experiences: Be ready to discuss your academic and extracurricular experiences, your goals, and how you handle challenges. Think about what you learned from these experiences and how you've grown.

- Practice: Mock interviews can help you get comfortable answering common questions. The point isn't to memorize exact responses but to have a loose blueprint in your mind.

- Create a positive impression: Be polite, dress appropriately, and be mindful of your body language. You should also send a thank-you note afterward.

Don't stress too much. You're not expected to have all the answers figured out. Rather, the interview is a chance for universities to get to know you beyond paper application and for you to get to know them. It's a conversation, not a quiz.

One last thing: If interviews are optional at the universities you're applying to, and you're offered an interview, should accept it. Ignoring or declining an interview can make it seem like you're not interested in the school. However, be aware that at highly selective schools, many students are admitted without interviewing. If you're not offered an interview, it does not reflect poorly on your application. Good luck!