<p>Are they conducted by students or admissions staff? What sort of questions are asked? My S is not sure if he should do one. He really wants to go to W&M, but he has a pretty reserved personality and is not so comfortable tooting his own horn. Appreciate any advice for him about what to expect, subjects to be prepared to discuss (or avoid), etc., and whether he should do it at all. Thanks.</p>
<p>Our interviews are conducted by W&M Seniors. Our interview FAQ page answers a lot of questions about the process (<a href=“http://www.wm.edu/admission/undergraduateadmission/how-to-apply/freshmanapplicants/application-checklist/oncampusinterviews/interviewfaqs/index.php”>http://www.wm.edu/admission/undergraduateadmission/how-to-apply/freshmanapplicants/application-checklist/oncampusinterviews/interviewfaqs/index.php</a>). They are optional so students don’t have to do one. If your son doesn’t believe he will shine in an interview then he can certainly choose not to do one. However, the only goal is to get to know the student better – expand upon what’s discussed in the application.</p>
<p>I participated in an interview. It was very relaxed and friendly, like a peer-to-peer conversation. The student asked me questions about my course load, my interests, what I do outside of school. He also wanted me to describe something unique about me and something interesting not found in my application. The interview lasted about 25 minutes. It was in a tiny little interview room with two chairs. The students are very friendly and it’s a great opportunity to give them an insight into your personality. Also, have a couple questions in mind (about whatever you want to know–the college, their college experience, etc) to ask them at the end of the interview. Be sure to speak clearly, make eye contact, and be relaxed.</p>
<p>Mine was very much like @fsl324’s. Small interview room with two chairs. My interviewer was a lovely girl. I had a great experience and it gave me a “windshield view” of what life at W&M is. I highly recommend it. BUT do have some responses planned out and some questions to ask your interviewer. I was really nervous, and she asked me if I’d like to do research. Under the pressure of the moment, I thought of research as in labs and coats and stuff…which is true but not when you’re studying music. I just messed up. It probably wasn’t that big of a deal, but in my mind, I botched it. If you’re set on going to w&m it may help you!</p>
<p>My interview was super relaxing and like previous folks have said, it was in a small room with two chairs and a little desk. The interview helped humanize the admissions process for me and showed me a little bit about life at the college. My interviewer and I told each other a little bit about ourselves then dove into the interview process which honestly, just seemed like a friendly conversation. Some of the questions I was asked were really fun and allowed me to think outside the box. Then there were also your typical “what do you want to major in, what do you do outside of school, how would you describe yourself,” etc. My interview lasted 35 almost 40 minutes (a lot longer than they’re supposed to go), but we were just talking and she answered all my questions and put to rest all my worries and the myths about the college. It really was an awesome experience.</p>
<p>As a side note, when I was accepted to w&m I emailed the girl that did my interview and she was absolutely thrilled I was accepted! She sent me the nicest reply email telling me just how excited she was for me. So props to the admissions office for selecting such incredible and nice people to conduct the interviews.</p>
<p>I agree with @penelope31 about planning a few responses. I knew I wanted to major in English, so I already had in mind a favorite piece of literature I read in school and why I liked it. As it happened, the interviewer asked me if I had read something I particularly enjoyed. </p>