I have done a search on CC about alumni vs on campus interviews and most threads seems to focus on big schools and Ivy’s so I am asking here.
D is looking to ED2 Bowdoin. She does not feel she needs to re-visit to make that choice.
We have an on-campus interview set up in a couple of weeks. Weighing flying from NYC to Maine just for the interview: to show interest, to get an interviewer who might have more sway in the process (seems like sometimes they are students, sometimes admissions reps who could go to bat for you in committee). On campus interviews sound like they are often quite short, vs alumni interviews where they can be longer but also more capricious. CC said that often alumni interviewers are chosen because they want to keep donors happy vs being respected interviewers (not just at Bowdoin, at all schools) and that you can get a pretty nutty alumni person.
D is a very very good interviewer; her interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence are strengths. I don’t want to cancel the on campus interview because its ‘easier’ to do an alumni interview if that will in any way negatively affect the process.
Anyone who can weigh in on the process, esp as specific to Bowdoin or other small LAC’s?
A big purpose of LAC interviews is demonstrated interest, so schools can have a better idea of who may actually enroll if offered a spot. Of course, if your D is applying ED, that is the ultimate expression of interest. Interviewing with an actual admission rep either on campus or at an off campus event, holds more sway, as they have much more influence on the process. But if the interview goes poorly or even just okay, that’s going to hurt you in the process. Most times, Alumni interviewers will hold less sway. How many times have we seen posts here or heard irl from alum interviewers saying, I was sure this kid would get in and he didn’t. That’s because the alum interviewers don’t have much sway or even have a great grasp on the process. If you think your D is going to make a great impression, the on campus option could help her more. On the other hand, the alum option won’t be negative, but it may not give her a boost
Bowdoin on-campus interviews may be with a trained student instead of an admissions officer.
But why cancel? She will get to see the school again and certainly demonstrate a ton of interest. Plus, you have already signed up for it, so cancelling without a compelling reason would look bad.
It is better to go to the campus and get an interview there. I went and got an admissions counselor to interview me!! It is also a great chance to really see if Bowdoin is a place you are willing to ED to.