How valuable is interviewing with a university alum?

I'm considering reaching out to alumni for informational interviews about their college experience. Has anyone done this? How helpful was it in learning about life on campus and the programs they're known for?

Alumni interviews can be an excellent way to gain firsthand insight into a university and its culture. They give you a chance to ask candid questions about the alumni's experiences, what programs they found particularly beneficial or challenging, and how they feel their education has carried over into their professional lives. This firsthand information can give you a more personal viewpoint, which can sometimes be more relatable than the objective data on a college's website or brochure.

Just keep in mind that individual experiences can differ greatly, so take everything you hear with a grain of salt. Universities evolve over time, and someone's experience five or ten years ago may not exactly reflect what your experience might be. Use their stories as one piece of the puzzle in determining if a college would be a good fit for you.

Having said that, remember to impress upon the alumni your genuine interest in their alma mater. This can potentially benefit you if the alumni choose to put in a good word or a recommendation on your behalf.

Lastly, don't go into these interviews expecting it to boost your application in any significant way—that typically only happens when the interview is an official part of the admissions process organized by the university itself. An informational interview has more to do with helping you make a more informed decision about whether the college is a good fit for you. Good luck!