Hey all-
Just hoping you could help me out by telling me which of the following schools offer interviews, who actually gives it (alumnus/a, student, or admissions officer) , and whether or not one can actually schedule an interview or the school does it at random after you apply. Hopefully this can be a useful guide to everyone! Feel free to add any other schools that you know about that are not on my particular list.
Harvard:
Yale:
Princeton:
Dartmouth:
Columbia:
Williams:
Amherst:
<p>No interviews necessary for williams and Amherst.</p>
<p>Here is what I have so far. Add your own or correct me as you wish!</p>
<p>Harvard: schedules alumnus/a interview for you after application is reviewed</p>
<p>Yale: applicant schedules interview</p>
<p>Princeton:</p>
<p>Dartmouth: applicant calls admissions office at least 3 weeks in advance to request an interview</p>
<p>Columbia:</p>
<p>Williams: interviews do not have any impact on admissions decisions</p>
<p>Amherst: interviews do not have any impact on admissions decisions</p>
<p>Interviews...
There are two kinds based on who gives it: interviews by adcom members and interviews by volunteer alumni.</p>
<p>There are two kinds based on their purpose: informational only and evaluative.</p>
<p>Not too many colleges require interviews. If they require one, they are probably given primarily by volunteer alumni. The college will arrange an for an alumni in your area to contact you. The interview will then be either just informational in order to give you a chance to ask questions, or the alumni will fill out an evaluation form and it goes in your file. The important thing about this is that you must show up. Not accepting the interview is an indicator that you are not interested in the college, and is a kiss of death. If you live in an area where they can't find an alumni to interview you, however, not having an interview will not be held against you.</p>
<p>If you visit the college, you want to ask about interviewing. If it is offered, then take it because it shows interest.</p>
<p>Colleges track interest typically using your social security number. Let them know it if you request info, visit the college, or attend local presentations.</p>