I got an email from a Brown alum to see if I want to talk about Brown with them. They said interviews are completely optional so don’t feel obligated to say yes, but if I would like to talk we can do a phone or Skype interview. I would have preferred an in person interview, but over the phone seems awkward. I can only think of a few things I would want to ask them and it’s nothing super major.
Even though they said it’s completely optional, would it look bad if I declined it? If not, what should I say? Thanks everyone!
I’ve heard an admission officer at another ivy league school say that if you are offered an interview, you MUST take it. I agree with you, the phone seems like it will be pretty awkward (I’m not too hyped for my skype one), but they will probably see it as a lack of interest if you do not accept an interview. Why take the chance when the admittance rate is so low? Good luck.
Don’t be put off by the Skype scenario. I started interviewing a few students via that method this year. It’s actually pretty cool. You get to set your own surroundings. Be comfortable,; ensure you have enough light on yourself; make sure little/no background noise or distractions.
It goes fine. As for what to ask, there’s an excellent stickied thread about interviewing here on this Brown forum
I don’t know what effect declining the interview has, but my son declined an in person interview. The interviewer said it was completely optional and my son opted out. He still got in ED. I’m not saying its a good idea, but just wanted to throw out that it doesn’t completely torpeedo your applcation either.
He did write a nice email saying how much he loved Brown, etc. when he declined the interview.