<p>what kind of questions do they ask during the admissions interview? i live in tucson, AZ so do you think id be able to get an interview way out here? i believe that the interview could be the thing that sets me apart from the rest of the applicants who have similar numbers, because it gives me a chance to let my personality show in person. the interview should be a pretty important part for the review committee in admissions decisions, right? thanks for your input!</p>
<p>Harvard has alumni all over. You'll definitely be able to get an interview in Tucson. (I think one of the alumni interviewers who is here now used to live in AZ, although I'm not sure in which city there.)</p>
<p>At my interview, I was asked basically about all of the things that I had done in HS. She asked about my classes, like which ones were my favorites, if I did any clubs or sports, musical instruments, stuff like that. However, all she knew about me was my name and email address, so you have to bring up stuff that's important to you.</p>
<p>Oh yeah, she also asked why I wanted to go to Harvard, so you better have an answer ready for that one....</p>
<p>They say that the interview doesn't make or break your admission. I didn't feel too great after my Harvard interview but got in and felt great about my UPenn interview and got waitlisted. Unfortunately for you it doesn't carry much weight but you are asked questions like Why Harvard, What was your most import activity, What do you want to do with your life...pretty general stuff imo</p>
<p>I just want to add that Harvard actually does care about the interview component a lot. No other school attempts to give each and every applicant an interview. That said, onto what I experienced in my interview...</p>
<p>The interviewer only knows your name and what high school you are attending. They do not have any other information about you. By doing so, the alum does not have any preconceived notions/bias about you, and can really get an accurate picture of who you are.</p>
<p>That said, it is really a nice conversation about an hour in length. I had so much fun and felt so engaged that the hour just flew by and we discussed everything from politics, music, history, the growing gap between the rich/poor, etc. It was really fascinating! As HarvardJason0813 mentioned, they do ask "Why Harvard?" since, well, it is a legit question -- however, I found that they start from very broad questions and just go on from there, which was great. Who knows where the conversation might lead? </p>
<p>It's also a chance to get to ask questions about Harvard, and alums such as Northstarmom and Hanna do it because they want to -- there is no monetary compensation involved.</p>