<p>Would it be ok if I choose not to accept an alumni interview?</p>
<p>I was wondering the same thing since I am horrible at interviews, but I think it’s probably better if you accept since so many people aren’t even offered a chance to have one. Rejecting the offer would seem like you don’t really want to go there. (Also, from what I’ve heard, a poor interview shouldn’t detract from your application unless you are extremely rude/etc.)</p>
<p>think of it this way: Columbia is a very selective institution which receives thousands of applications so anything that is a strike against your application (such as turning down an interview) would prob end badly for you. So I’d accept it.</p>
<p>It’s a toss up: to posters 1 & 2, I’d say:“What do you think the interview will be like?” It’s a conversation. No one is going to get in your grille and ask you the standard deviation of a set of numbers they rant off to you or your thoughts on some complex economic policy. </p>
<p>The interview is supposed to be a vehicle for you to tell Columbia more about yourself that’s not in the application. It’s natural to be somewhat nervous – but it’s not meant to be a scary situation whatsoever. Interviewers understand the pressure you feel. </p>
<p>It’s probably not as bad as you make it out to be. I try to be very disarming to students I meet precisely because they feel it’s somewhat a “make or break” moment. It’s not. Just don’t come disheveled or throw a coffee in the face of the interviewer – and you’ll do fine.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if you have some serious social deficiency, declining the interview (and therefore hiding your weakness) is a viable option, IMHO. I recall one Harvard interviewer who posted an incredibly bizarre situation where a socially awkward boy was having continual nasal drip and did not bother to clean himself up . This obvious social faux pas was plainly noted in the write up – the fact that this person could not perceive the need to not gross out others was astounding. Eiewwwww!</p>
<p>Seriously though: it would take a lot for a student to “screw up” an interview with me. I honestly think you’ll all perform fine. Best of luck to you</p>
<p>Barring a scheduling conflict or crippling social deficiency—of the sort T26E4 describes, which I’m sure is apocryphal—I’d say go for the interview. Turning it down, especially when so many applicants are not offered interviews, is not a good sign.</p>
<p>^ T26E4 & pwoods: thanks for the advice!</p>