<p>I was going to interview for Exeter in October, but due to some complications I might not be able to. My Choate interview is in December, on the same date that my Exeter interview may be moved to. Exeter is higher on my list than Choate, so should I switch their dates?
Are December interviews better than October ones (more fresh in their minds, they may remember me better).</p>
<p>This question has been asked repeatedly on this forum . . . and the response from AO’s who have responded has consistently been: “It doesn’t matter.” </p>
<p>Whether you interview in August or January, the notes will go in your file exactly the same way . . . and the person who actually does the interview may not even be part of the committee that ends up making the decisions for your particular class . . . although that varies from school to school.</p>
<p>I would strongly urge you, though, to know the answer to one question before you go for your interview: “What is it about this school that makes you want to apply here?” As long as you have the answer to that question, you’re ready to interview.</p>
<p>I don’t disagree with dodgersmom, however, I think there is such a thing as the primacy-recency effect, namely: During a learning episode, we remember best that which comes first, second best that which come last, and least that which come just past the middle. AOs afterall are trying to learn something, something about which kids they believe are the best fit for their schools. Some argue that if you interview in the summer, the AOs could possibly have more time and therefore spend more time with you, getting to know you better than they would, had they only 20 rushed minutes in the height of interview season in the fall. Others argue, that come time to sit around the table, with students fresh in their minds, they are more apt to argue for those last “touched.” In general, if you’re outstanding in a positive or negative way, you’ll be remembered. In my son’s case, the two schools he got into were from interviews he had in the summer and where the AOs had lots of time to get to know him.</p>
<p>The logistics can be challenging enough, as you’re already finding out, just make the appointment.</p>
<p>Not to freak you out or anything, but the match between applicant and interviewer matters much more than the timing, in my opinion. You have no control over the choice of interviewer, so don’t worry about minor points, such as timing. Make the appointment. Be sure to leave sufficient travel time between schools to arrive on time to your second appointment.</p>
<p>I’ll do my interview later then, thanks for the helpful responses.</p>