What to expect in informal university interviews?

I have an informal interview coming up with a school I'm considering, and I'm not sure what to expect. Are there specific questions they ask in these settings, or is it more of a casual conversation? How should I prepare?

I'd like to help provide some guidance for your informal university interview! Firstly, it's great that you're already thinking about how to prepare—it shows that you're taking it seriously, which is a good thing.

The approach and style can vary based on the institution, but in informal interviews, colleges are generally looking to get an idea of your personality, interests, and how you might fit into their community. They want to see if you're genuinely interested in their school and if you could see yourself thriving there.

You can expect to be asked about why you're interested in the school, what you hope to achieve during your time there, what you're passionate about, and how you spend your time outside of school. It might be less rigid than a formal interview, so feel free to encapsulate experiences and stories that highlight your values, strengths, and passions.

Now, to prepare for this, I would recommend a few things:

1. Reflect on your core values and prepare to share them via specific examples or experiences, like leadership roles, volunteer opportunities, or significant projects that you’ve done.

2. Research the university thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and any distinct cultural aspects. This will help you express informed interest in the institution, and will also provide context for any questions you might want to ask.

3. Have a list of any questions that you have about the program/school. This could range from asking about specific academic programs, campus life, or student support services. This encourages a two-way conversation and also communicates your initiative in taking the time to know more about the university.

4. Practice with a friend or family member. It can help to simulate the interview setting, it can help give you a feel for how you might respond under slight pressure.

5. Stay relaxed and be yourself! Remember, the school is interested in getting to know you and your potential fit with the institution.

Good luck with your interview! I'm sure you'll do great.