University Alumni Interview Tips?

I'm prepping for an alumni interview for one of my college applications. I'd love some advice on how to best present myself and make a good impression. What kind of questions should I expect, and how should I prepare?

Hey, good on you for prepping for the interview. It definitely doesn't hurt to have a bit of a game plan. Essentially, you want to make sure you convey the real "you," not just all your academic accomplishments.

Some common questions that usually come up are:

- "Why are you interested in attending XYZ University?"

- "What do you plan to major in and why?"

- "What extracurricular activities are you involved in?"

- "Can you tell me about a time you overcame a challenge?"

To answer these well, you'll really want to know exactly why the college you're interviewing for is a good fit for you. Is it because they have a standout program for your intended major or special opportunities that align with your interests? You'll also want to have a clear picture of your future goals. Whether it's a broad idea that will be refined later or a detailed path you've laid out, have something to say about it.

During the interview, make sure to let your personality shine. Express your interests and activities you're engaged in outside of academics. You could mention clubs you participate in, hobbies (i.e., painting, writing poetry), or community service projects.

And remember this - it's fine to take a moment to think about your answers. If a question catches you off guard, it's alright to say, "Let me think about that for a moment." Better to pause and give a solid answer than to rush into something you'll wish you could take back later.

Good luck! I'm sure you'll do great. Remember - they're not trying to trick you. They just want to get to know you a bit better.