<p>So I got an interview at a coffeeshop. Should I arrive 10-15 mins before the interview and buy my drink first? Not sure how I'm gonna recognize the interviewer either... Anyone else who had an interview in a public place encounter this problem?</p>
<p>I arrived at my interview (not a Princeton interview) on time, but the interviewer wasn’t there yet… so I bought a small drink and managed to drink it all before she arrived. Just make sure any drink you buy doesn’t distract from the interview. If you think it might, there’s no harm in not buying a drink–you could even purchase one after the interview as you leave. And it can be nerve-wracking if you’re left staring at every person that walks in the door, wondering if they’re the interviewer. But don’t worry, because I’m positive they’ll approach you first.</p>
<p>^ Okay thanks owlehn! I’ll still go early. 
I don’t want to risk having the interviewer wait on me. Any other tips guys? It’s my first one.</p>
<p>Interview makes very little on your app - can only help! Just show up on time, look around for someone with that Princeton charm surrounding him/her, and then be likeable.</p>
<p>As a Princeton interviewer, I would say you shouldn’t stress out too much. Its pretty low-stress but here are some pointers based on my exp:</p>
<p>1) Get there early
2) Be prepared with questions about Princeton, its kinda frustrating when interview candidates don’t take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the school
3) Please know why you’re interested in the school
4) Be prompt about responding to your interviewer’s emails/phone calls.
5) Relax! Many interviewers are relatively recent alums and remember what the process was like, don’t worry too much.
6) Contrary to the post above, I tend to view the interview as having a minor effect but it can absolutely kill someones candidacy.</p>
<p>To those who have already had their interviews, was it necessary to bring any sort of resume, etc?</p>
<p>^no. I think they want to see more of your personality than a list of your accomplishments. Some things on there will inevitably come up in the conversation, so don’t worry about it. And I arrived before the interviewer. I felt awkward just standing there… Looking at everyone… Creeper. O.o</p>
<p>^yeah, to avoid the creeper thing, I wouldn’t get there too early. Just sit in the car like a loser until 5-10 min before. This way your interviewer will probably get there before you do and he/she will be easy to recognize. </p>
<p>I did have 1 interview where the interviewer was 10 min late. I asked a few randos whether they were interviewing someone today, and it was really embarrassing.</p>