For incoming freshmen at Princeton, what's typically involved in any interviews they might have? I'm interested in understanding this part of the process as I get ready to apply.
Princeton University's undergraduate admissions interview is an opportunity for you to learn more about the university and for the admissions team to get to know you better. As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, the interviews are conducted by Princeton alumni, and are usually held in-person, although they may take place virtually if the applicant is in a different geographic location.
While interviews are optional and not offered to all applicants, it's highly recommended to participate if you are given the opportunity, as it shows your interest in the university and provides an additional dimension to your application. Do keep in mind that not being offered an interview is not a negative reflection on your candidacy, as interview availability depends solely on the number of alumni interviewers in your area.
Generally, the interview is more of a conversation rather than a strict question-and-answer session. It usually lasts around 30 - 45 minutes, and the topics can range from your academic experiences and extracurricular activities to your personal aspirations and why you're interested in Princeton. While each interviewer has their own style, you might expect questions about your academic interests, your high school activities, your reasons for wanting to attend Princeton, and how you see yourself contributing to the university community.
You should be prepared to talk about your achievements, interests, and future goals in a personalized and thoughtful way, but you're not expected to have a rehearsed script. It's important to be genuine and reflect on your experiences and aspirations.
Do remember that the Princeton interview is informational and carries less weight in the overall decision-making process when compared to other aspects of your application like your academic achievements, essays, and recommendations. So, be relaxed and treat it as a chance to express your enthusiasm about the university.
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