I’m currently a Junior who’s living in South America, and I might be able to have an interview with a Harvard Alumni, who is also the Vice-Consul of the US in this country. Even though this interview isn’t official, I’m hoping he might give me a letter of recommendation to the school. Could anyone give me any tips for the interview?
Here’s a tip: DO NOT ask for a recommendation, as this is NOT the kind of letter Admissions wants to read. Harvard wants to know what kind of scholar you are – and they specifically ask for recommendations from teachers who have recently taught you in the classroom because they want to know: Are you a shy student or a gregarious one? Do you constantly raise your hand with thoughtful comments? Or, do you have to be called upon? Are you a leader of the classroom discussion? Or, are you a follower of the discussion? Does your writing go beyond the strictures of the assignment? Are you respected by your fellow classmates? Are you one of the most talented students the teacher has had in their career? Are you respected by your teachers? What will your teachers remember about you after you graduate? As the Harvard alum cannot answer these questions, but can only comment on their knowledge of you for however long the interview lasts, their recommendation would be considered FLUFF by the Admissions Office. Do you want to be remembered as the student who sent in a fluff LoR?
As to tips for the interview, please try google. Here, let me help you: http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Harvard+Interview+Tips
Thanks for the advice, gibby. I’ll take it into account.
@gibby, I had a very nice meeting with the Vice-Consul and another Harvard alum. They gave me several important tips, and answered my questions about Harvard. I neither asked for a recommendation nor was offered one. I will keep in touch with both of them.