How do you usually act during a college interview?

Applying to College
1

I might get selected for a BA/MD combined medical program and I might be going to my first ever college interview. How did you act during yours and what tips can you share?

2
  • Good interviews are more like conversations; feel free to ASK as well as answer questions
  • Dress nicely but not formally (suit/tie unnecessary)
  • Firm handshake, eye contact, stay positive (don't criticize your school, your teachers, other students, or other colleges *at all*)
  • You have more control over the conversation than you think! If you bring up one of your experiences/activities, the interviewer will ask you more about it. Only bring up things that you want to talk about (i.e. the most important, substantive elements of your application)
  • Questions you should be VERY prepared for: 1) Why do you want to go to this college? (have clear, specific reasons; do your research) 2) What subject(s) do you most enjoy? Why? Have you thought about what you might want to major in? Why? 3) Tell me about some of the things you've done outside of school? [This in particular is the part of the conversation you can control!] 4) What have you been reading lately?
  • Be prepared with questions for your interviewer. These work well: 1) What did you enjoy most about your time at [college]? 2) Do you have any regrets? It seems like there are so many opportunities at [college]--if you could go back, what would you do differently? 3) How has [college] influenced your life after graduation? Has it helped you in your career? Is there an active alumni network?

AFTER THE INTERVIEW
Write a small note by email thanking the interviewer for his/her time. You may also mention things discussed in the interview.

3

Good advice above which relates to a typical undergrad interview. I’m not sure if a BA/MD interview might be a bit different. Hopefully someone who has done a BA/MD interview can chime in. But offhand I would add:

–You act like your polite, normal self.

–The dress code described above is standard for undergrad interviews, not sure if it may be a bit more formal for a BA/MD program interview.

–Since the interview is for a combined BA/MD program it may be a bit more targeted than suggested above. Be prepared for questions about how you know medicine is the path you want, how you have prepared for this career etc.

  • If you have a resume prepared I'd bring it along as it can be a good springboard for conversation. If the interviewer declines the resume that is OK.