<p>I have an admissions interview next week, so I'm trying to prepare for it. I know some of the types of questions I should anticipate and I know I should dress formally. But, in my conversation with my admissions interviewer to set up the time and place of my interview, he said he didn't want to meet at his office because he didn't want me to feel intimidated or uncomfortable in any way, so he set it up at a starbucks. OK, this raised a few questions. Typically, for an interview, I've been told I should wear business suit attire: blouse, slacks/skirt, and a jacket. But, he emphasized the comfortable issue and it's at a starbucks. I still want to look professional and formal, but should I ditch the jacket? Also, even though I know some general interview questions to be thinking about, what questions does columbia typically ask in interviews?</p>
<p>yes, business casual is fine. it's not a job interview, you don't necessarily need to be robotic and perfect, just respectful.</p>
<p>i've covered the questions/preparation issue in other threads, you may want to read:</p>
<p>The college interview is not about impressing the interviewer with your vast knowledge and ability to be professional. You are 17, and they want you to act like a 17 year old. They want to see personality, and what you're like to be around if you're just hanging out. Hence, the Starbucks location. My interview was in a Starbucks too, and I went in nice but casual clothes-- jeans, a nice sweater and high-heeled boots. My suggestion is to ditch the formalwear entirely, and go for something that more reflects your style. As long as you don't look sloppy and you don't have a huge stain down your front, you shouldn't have a problem.</p>
<p>You're having an interview NEXT WEEK? I contacted Columbia a while ago since I had to schedule my interview ahead because I had a crazy schedule and they said the latest date for an interview was the 22nd (aka 2 days ago).</p>
<p>my case may be different because I live in an area where not a lot of people apply to Columbia and need interviews, and also because I am supposed to know about my admissions status by Dec. 1st because I'm applying to Columbia through this other organization.</p>
<p>Thank you, both Denzera and Chickensoup, I think I know how to prepare now. Denzera, I especially appreciated reading your lengthy reply to one of the threads, where you listed your mind prep process.</p>