<p>If you live out-of-state, alumni interviews are encouraged. How important is this?</p>
<p>Can’t anyone tell me if the alumni interview is important for acceptance? The closest alumni is several hours away.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t worry about it. I didn’t interview, and neither did most of the people I’ve met here. From what I’ve heard from admissions officials and alumni who have conducted interviews, alumni interviews have almost no bearing on acceptance except for small schools that put a lot of weight on applicant interest. Basically, the only purpose of an alumni interview is for you yourself to get questions answered about the school. Otherwise, all that the alumni does is basically report back to the admissions office whether you’re alive or not. Also, if you want an interview, do a phone interview so you don’t have to drive a long distance.</p>
<p>Thank you, bmittman. The website says they are encouraged, and the long drive ,likely through snow, would be an ordeal. Glad to hear they are not needed.</p>