<p>I have been kind of interested in Rice (as well as 7 or so other universities, such as Stanford and MIT), and I was going to plan a visit there relatively soon. Apparently, there are interviews that can be signed up for and that "facilitate communication of your goals and interests to the Committee on Admission." Does anyone know what role these actually play, and/or how important they are? I'm definitely not decided on Rice, if that's what determines it. Thanks.</p>