Hello,
If anyone has been interviewed at Phillips Academy Andover, and they know what questions are frequently asked and how I might be able to prepare, it would be greatly appreciated if you could tell me.
Thanks!
My best advice for preparation is to simply become very comfortable at talking to an adult/stranger. Be able to really hold a conversation. I had my interview more than 4 years ago, so I don’t remember too many specifics, but there was absolutely nothing that caught me off guard. Most of the questions are quite standard, however the interviewer is going to be looking at how you answer them. Can you only give monotone “yes” or “no” answers, or can you make a conversation out of a simple question. Remember, you are still trying to sell yourself to the school but don’t just be talking about how great of a person you are. Let them know your real passions, and most importantly BE ABLE TO ARTICULATE WHY YOU WANT TO GO TO ANDOVER. I think this is the most important question of the interview, and the only one I actually prepped for.
@MABlue You clearly know about Andover! Do you know if I have to visit to get in?
@snowyowlgal Certainly not. It’s not a pre-condition. If you live near the area though, and don’t visit, admissions officers are going to find that a little fishy (and may interpret that as a lack of interest in the school). If you live, say, in the state of California, you’re fine. Just schedule a Skype interview.
I would agree. Although the vast majority of people visit before applying it is not necessarily a requirement. There is an understanding that not everyone can practically make the trip for a variety of reasons(cost, distance, etc.) I would honestly say it is more worthwhile to visit after actually getting in because then it comes down to making a decision that will affect the next four years.
@MABlue what if you live like 6 hours away?
If you are driving you might as well bring them yourself to not complicate things with the hassle of going to pick up stuff from the mailroom