May 21, 2012

Meeting With The Addmissions Officer

 

So your on your way to interview with the admissions office and your not quite sure what to say or what to think.  Palms sweaty and knees wobbling?  The last thing you should do is be nervous for one of these interviews.  In the grand scheme of things, the interview is probably at the bottom of the admissions officers considerations.  Most schools do not even require one, it's just a good idea to sit face to face with someone of authority and introduce yourself.  Put a name with a face and clear up any questions you have about your school or clear up any spots on your academic record.

Putting Things In Perspective

You are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you.  Remember its your money, commitment, and education that is at stake.  We certainly are not suggesting to be a prude, on the contrary.  Be respectful, speak proper English, and ask intelligent questions.  You want to make the best impression you can with this person because they are the ones holding the keys to their endowments. 

Getting Prepared for the Interview

Knowing what kinds of questions are going to help you be confident and relaxed.  Below are a few stock questions admissions officers like to ask. 

  • What are you looking to take away from your college experience?
  • Why are you considering this school?
  • What area of study have you decided on?
  • Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
  • What classes are you taking in high school?
  • What do you feel are your strengths? Your weaknesses?
  • What are your hobbies?
  • What do you feel about recent events in the media?
  • Who has been the most influence on your life and why?
  • What is your favorite book and why?
  • What books have you read in the last year?

A Little Word Of Advice

The best advise we can give is to be honest and sincere.  Admissions officers have been at this a long time and can pick up on students who are feeding them nothing but icing instead of cake.   Here are a few more tips to consider before you take the plunge:

  • Don't be late!  Many people are taught never to trust a person who is unaccountable with their time
  • Feel free to discuss your achievements but avoid a laundry list approach.  The achievements should be meaning and relevant to how they have helped shape your life.
  • If the conversation turns to subjects that are less positive like spots on your academic record or your weaknesses, remain calm and collect and don't be afraid to talk about them.  Being able to do so confidently shows signs of maturity.
  • Be presentable!  You can leave your fancy wedding attire at home, but don't wear a raggedy Nirvana t-shirt either.  Spit out your gum, sit up straight., and don't forget to smile!
  • Be confident and speak clearly. 
  • Avoid using words like dawg, hommies, and other slang words.  Just speak in proper English.
  • Stay away from thinking words like "um", "like", and "you know".