<p>I have my interview in a couple of days. Any general tips?</p>
<p>One question - if my interviewer asks me “Why Brown,” how long can I rant on for? :D</p>
<p>Do a search for my prior posts; look for last fall/winter – I’ve given several general tips about interviews. The interview is a good place to talk in-depth about things you only skimmed in your application.</p>
<p>Your question: A good interviewer will cut you off if you continue for too long. I would use your answer as jumping off point to learn more about you.</p>
<p>If you have other specific questions, I’ll answer them. (I’ve been doing interviews for Brown for 30 odd years.)</p>
<p>Thank you, fireandrain. I’ve typed out my questions below:</p>
<p>1) My interview is via Skype. Is there any basic protocol that I should follow?
2) Am I expected to ask the interviewer a lot of questions, or should the focus be pretty much entirely on me?</p>
<ol>
<li><p>I’ve only used Skype once, and never for an interview. I’m assuming it’s a video interview, so the interviewer will be able to see your surroundings? If yes, then be careful about what the interviewer sees – no nude pinups. You don’t need to dress up – clean polo shirt is fine.</p></li>
<li><p>It depends on your interviewer. Some have lots of questions, others are more casual. My interviews typically last about an hour and are pretty casual, although I ask some standard questions. At some point, maybe 45 minutes in, I ask if they have questions. (If the answer is no, I’m not impressed.)</p></li>
</ol>
<p>While an interviewer can learn something about you from your questions, if the hour is spent mostly describing Brown and not focussed on you, then what is the interviewer going to write about?</p>
<p>I just had an email for my interview. I am at sishya school in chennai in India. Thanks fireandrain for your help. Makes me feel at ease. I can’t wait for the interview as the next step in my application. I also had PM from current Brown students. Thanks to all.</p>
<p>OK, thanks!</p>
<p>Never ‘rant on’ in any interview. While the interviewer should be interested in you, it is also a good way to find out about Brown and the interviewer’s experience. Just try for conversation, which is only good when it is mutual. </p>
<p>If using skype, I’d suggest going slowly, being especially respectful and listening. Ask questions when you are invited to only. If your questions didn’t get attention in the end, ask first if you can cover some things you were wondering about.</p>
<p>In end, I doubt interview means much, but it must mean something.</p>
<p>Just wanted to let you guys know that I had a great interview. It was laid-back and conversational, helped me learn more about Brown and consolidated it as my top choice. Thanks for all your help!</p>