interview dilemma?

Applying to College
1

<p>I have an interview Thursday at my first choice school and i just found out from their admission web site that my admission counselor was president of the college republicans. I am a devote Democrat and have been very involved with my party - i don’t know how i can’t mention this. What should I do?</p>

2

<p>Mention it. If you feel it affects the interviewer's perception of you, complain to the alumni association (if this is an alumni interview) or the dean if it's an admissions office interview.</p>

3

<p>Be yourself. Be honest and describe your political activities when it's appropriate to in the interview. </p>

<p>I'm a staunch Democrat who has interviewed students who were staunch Republicans. What I was interested in was how they came to their opinions and what actions they took to support causes they believed in. I was interested in their critical thinking skills and willingness to take leadership for things they believed in.</p>

<p>In fact, one student whom I gave a very strong recommendation to - and who did get into my Ivy alma mater -- had political views that were conservative Republican.</p>

<p>Politics are important and I think that many interviewers are like me in that regardless of whether students share our own political perspectives, it's refreshing to interview a student who cares about current events and is involved in politics. </p>

<p>I also have the wisdom to know that someone who is a staunch conservative at age 18 may due to college experiences make permanent changes of their political orientation. I'll never forget the student who entered Harvard as a conservative Republican and then became an active participant in a local left wing political organization.</p>

<p>I do try to forget, however, the people whose politics changed to be more conservative. :)</p>

4

<p>Don't be paranoid that this interviewer, who is volunteering his/her time to assist the alma mater get in the best kids possible, is unable to correctly judge your contributions to the school. Don't fear his/her bias. Being a Republican doesn't mean "enemy"</p>