<p>Wow, I'm excited. I officially feel like a senior and officially feel like my college application time has started. The interview is with a rep from Willamette University, and I'll probably be having more interviews w/ other colleges in the coming months/weeks. </p>
<p>So.. experienced parents and/or students ... what do I need to know? What should I bring with me? It seems kinda informal, the guy suggested somewhere at my school or at a coffee shop. What kinda questions should I ask of him and be prepared to answer? Should I bring a resume or unofficial transcript? Anything else? hmmm... how long should I expect the interviews to last? </p>
<p>Well, any info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!</p>
<p>Exciting and a bit scary, isn't it? Interviews usually last 45-60 minutes. Some last longer, especially if both sides "click."</p>
<p>Dress casually but neatly. Bring a copy of your resume if you have one. My S did not bring his transcript, but there is no harm bringing one along. Both interviewers looked at my S's resume and talked about his hobbies. </p>
<p>Do not ask questions that can easily be answered from the college website or viewbook. You can ask the interviewer questions pertaining to your intended major, about the housing situation, what students have liked most or least about the college. You should be prepared to explain why you are applying to that particular college, what your academic interests are, what ECs you pursue during the school year and in the summer, etc...</p>
<p>The important thing is to be relaxed and be yourself. Good luck!</p>
<p>Leave more than a half hour before you would ever think to leave--I had three college interviews last year when I applied, and for two of them (not least of which, my dream school) the oil light came on in my car. I was in the middle of a two and half hour drive on the interstate in my dress shirt and pants and tie, and I had to get out on the side of the interstate to add more oil to my car. Thankfully, I didn't spill a drop, but had I not left a half-hour of cushion time, I may have been late to my Columbia interview. Leave yourself way too much time to get stressed by small glitches, and it's nice to have even up to twenty minutes before the interview to compose yourself, maybe even make a few notes so that you don't forget to say anything.</p>