<p>T26E4 wrote: “You say it’s tangential. I say it indicates whether this kid is aware of something besides his/her studies.”</p>
<p>This is such an important point. So many students on CC are worrying about how to raise their SAT score from a 2360 to a 2400. They are missing the big picture, and I think they are not doing themselves any favors. </p>
<p>I am trying to distinguish between good students and truly intelligent people. Can you think on your feet? Can you think critically? Do you have a passion for learning or are you focused merely on what is going to be tested on your midterms? Do you care about anything that is happening in the world around you, or do you care only about your GPA? Do you read anything beyond what is assigned by your teachers?</p>
<p>My interviewer was really cool. He pretty much just asked me about my interests and plans. I did not perceive that he was testing my knowledge level regarding people, places, or current events, which made the interview much more relaxed, enjoyable and productive, IMO.</p>
<p>The rule about avoiding politics, religion, and sex as topics of conversation is a good one, except when the interviewee <em>specifically</em> raises an issue in one of the three categories during the discussion.</p>
<p>I think it depends on the interviewer him/herself opposed to the college they are an alumni of. For instance I literally only discussed politics for a Georgetown interview, no politics what so ever for a Duke interview, a lot of foreign relations stuff for Yale, and a tiny bit of foreign relations (Syria) for William and Mary. And I’m applying with an interest to be a political science major so I think it just depends on how the conversation goes.</p>