Hi everyone. I’m considering applying ED to W&M, and was talking to a friend who is going to be a freshman there this fall. She got in ED and suggested that I do a campus interview as it would really help me. (I’m on the fringe academics wise, but also I’m in-state). I may not be able to fit it in this summer, but I have a few questions about it regardless. Is it really vital to your application? The website says that not doing an interview will “in no way disadvantage you” in the application process, but my friend says differently. Also, what should I expect? I’ve never done an interview before and I’m not quite sure what they talk about/ask you. Any tips would be much appreciated! Thanks
If you are planning on applying ED, and if WM is your top choice, then it should be a top priority to schedule an interview. They are held now I believe, and into early August.
Nothing is “optional” when it comes to the application process. If they say you can write up to three essays, write three essays. If any college gives you an opportunity to interview, then do so. I would say an interview can especially help tip in your favor if your grades aren’t stellar.
I am familiar with this exact process. You will want to do your homework on WM, and take a campus tour first. Schedule the interview way past when you think the tour will end, because you don’t want to be rushed. Interviewees dress nice (so you will likely have to change between the tour and interview).
You should google “college interview prep” to give you a starting point on how to prepare. As with any interview, be prepared to ask intelligent questions. You could say that WM is your top choice and you will apply ED. Be prepared to say why.
You will receive a business card of your interviewer. Make sure to follow up with a hand written thank you card. Good luck.
Be aware that interviews at W&M are conducted by students, not by admissions officers or alumni, so it is a slightly different vibe than at other places my kids interviewed. All that Materof2 said still applies, but there were a few offbeat questions the interviewers threw in there, like what is your spirit animal! Also, that makes it a great opportunity to ask questions about what it is like to be a student there.
The interview can help show your enthusiasm for the college which is always a plus for a student on the edge with stats.
At W&M the interview is conducted by students in admissions. They are professional and take the job seriously. They are very friendly though! W&M is known for giving some really odd questions that can throw you off your game. My DD was asked “If you were a kitchen appliance what would you be and why?” Google W&M interview and you will see other strange questions. Think about your characteristics and prepare a bit.
I am also an ED applicant! I just had my interview in July and I have to say, be ready to talk. The average interview time was 30 minute. Mine was an hour, but saw some kids being walked from their interview rooms after only 15-20! By this I mean the students interviewing you won’t waste time if you are unresponsive. I was lucky and got a girl with very similar interests to me and with whom I was compatible through music, books, movies, etc. William and Mary is a liberal school, so make sure your answers are tolerant and won’t offend your interviewer. The questions get weirder as the interview progresses. My questions are listed below (as well as I can remember them) in order.
- describe yourself and your school
- have you enjoyed high school/ what would you change
- what do you like about your town
- why do you like W&M
- what is your favorite book
- what is your biggest achievement
- is you had to plan a music festival, who would you have headline
- what animal would you like to be
- what is your favorite food and why
- where is your dream vacation spot 11.if you had to give a TED talk, what would you speak about
- why should we pick you for W&M
Hope this helps!
More questions:
What was your biggest takeaway from high school?
What is the most adventurous thing you have done? What did you learn?
What are you interested in studying? major?