<p>I just got contacted by an alumnus for an interview today. He didn't say anything about a resume or pre-interview form. I still don't even know the when or where for the interview, so maybe he'll ask me to bring one when he gives me the time and place. In any case, should I bring a resume? Is it necessary? I don't want my interview to be nothing but a conversation about my credentials... I want my personality to show in a more conversational and personal way.</p>
<p>Also, will I be asked about current events or anything like that? Thanks!</p>
<p>Definitely bring your resume. I brought mine with me (luckily). First question he asked: “What’s your rank?” By bring my resume, I guess it demonstrated my preparedness. My interview was based off of my ECs. I brought my published research papers, rubik’s cubes, a deck of cards & rubber bands (for my magic tricks), and a stackmat timer for my Rubik’s cubes. He was very impressed (and thought it was bold) to do the Rubik’s cube (which I did in roughly 20 seconds). The magic tricks worked, then we talked a lot about Harvard and other stuff. If you want your personality to show, bring some props. Worked for me. We joked around in the end and it was really nice and casual (also professional).</p>
<p>When you said it “worked for you”, what do you mean? You haven’t gotten a decision yet have you? I am only saying this to say that what works for one may not work for another applicant. While this type of interview may have worked for you and your personality, it may not come across the same way for another applicant. If you are applying to other Ivies, this type of interview will probably not go over very big. Also, others don’t ask about rank or ask for resumes. I know, I do interviews for another school - guess you can figure out which one (and the 2018 is my D’s graduation year, not mine).</p>
<p>I’ve seen it done and it’s a sight to behold. First, they just study the cube, turning it round and round, planning the solution step by step. Then, they’re blindfolded and go to work on it, methodically and slowly. Between study and solving it can take 5-10 minutes.</p>
<p>If you can solve a cube in 20 seconds you clearly know the algorithms. To take it to the next step, where you solve it without any visual confirmation along the way, is nothing short of amazing.</p>