MIT alumni interviews: What to expect?

Hi everyone! I'm super excited about my upcoming MIT alumni interview. To those who've gone through the process or are familiar with it, what kinds of questions can I expect, and how should I prepare for the interview?

Congratulations on securing an MIT alumni interview! It's a great opportunity to showcase your personality and interests beyond your written application. While each alumni interviewer may have their own unique style and approach, you can still expect some common themes in the questions and the overall experience.

1. Personal introduction: Be prepared to speak briefly about yourself, your background, your family, and your interests outside of academics. This is the interviewer's chance to get to know you beyond your application and to establish a connection.

2. Academic interests: You'll likely be asked about your favorite subjects in school, any specific areas of study you're passionate about, and your reasons for choosing your intended major. This helps the interviewer understand your academic motivations and how they align with MIT's programs.

3. Extracurricular activities: Be ready to discuss your involvement in extracurriculars, leadership roles, and any notable achievements or experiences. Don't just list your accomplishments; focus on what you've learned from them and how they've shaped you as a person.

4. MIT-related questions: The interviewer may ask why you're interested in attending MIT, what aspects of the school's culture or programs appeal to you, or how you think you would contribute to the MIT community. Be specific and genuine in your responses, mentioning particular programs, clubs, or initiatives that you're excited about.

5. Challenges and growth: You might be asked about any challenges or obstacles you've faced, either in your personal or academic life, and how you've overcome them. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience, adaptability, and personal growth.

6. Current events and opinions: Some interviewers might bring up current events or ask for your thoughts on specific issues. This is to gauge your critical thinking and communication skills, as well as your level of engagement with the world around you. You don't need to be an expert on every topic, but it helps to be informed and to have considered opinions.

To prepare for the interview, review your application materials, including your essays and activity list. Think about potential talking points and anecdotes that illustrate your character and experiences. Stay informed on current events, and do some research on MIT to better understand its offerings, values, and culture. Most importantly, be yourself, be engaged, and be respectful during the conversation.

Remember that the interview should be a two-way dialogue, so don't hesitate to ask the alumni interviewer questions about their experience at MIT or any advice they might have for prospective students. Good luck!