<p>USC keeps advertising interviews on their website, by sending me tons of mail about it, and now by sending me emails about how i should schedule my interview right away if i want one. Should I schedule one? is it that important to have one, or is really just superfluous like they're leading me to believe by saying "there's not much weight on the interview, and you won't be penalized if you don't have one" </p>
<p>People who applied last year: did you have an interview? do you believe it helped you get in/not get in?</p>
<p>People who are about to apply for fall 07: are you going to sign up for an interview?</p>
<p>I had an interview with an admissions officer during the few days he was in town visiting area schools. </p>
<p>I think it was very helpful. It lets the committee see a more human side of you and is also a great chance to learn more about USC. </p>
<p>Be sure to think of your questions ahead of time. There is nothing more awkward than when they ask if you have any questions and you can't think of anything...</p>
<p>what was it like though? was it just one person asking you questions for half an hour? what kinds of questions do they ask you?</p>
<p>It is a one-on-one interview lasting about 30 minutes. </p>
<p>I'm now a sophomore, so the interview was a while ago, but I remember they start with some paperwork just to get basic GPA and SAT stats from you. The first few questions are broad I think, asking about what kind of stuff you do inside and outside of school. </p>
<p>This worked fairly well for me because I did a lot of school newspaper stuff, so I was able to talk about that and then transition my answer into why I was interested in the program at Annenberg.</p>
<p>There's usually a wildcard questions, like What one thing would you change in the world? or What's been your most challenging experience?</p>
<p>And there is always time at the end if you want to ask about specific programs, student life, career opportunities, etc.</p>
<p>Again, if you can be comfortable and social when interacting with adults, I think the interview can really help your application.</p>