Oh, ok. See, there are two types of interviews, and I assumed that the student was always supposed to be fully aware of which type it is, considering the huge discrepancy in their nature. Isn’t an info interview one where the student just asks any questions they have about the school? Wouldn’t it be important to differentiate between this and an evaluative interview? Why would a college keep it as a secret as to which type was going to occur?
Well, some schools tell you. The schools that don’t probably want students to do well, and not just have a bad interview just because it’s an info interview. Interviews should be conversations. So an informational interview should run like an evaluational interview. All in all, it’s not a big deal which one it is. The interview is supposed to be fun for the interviewer and you. Just go out and have a good time. It’s not meant to be stressful.
^ I still disagree that those clothes are appropriate for college interviews. I just don’t want people here basically spending tons of money on fancy clothes that really aren’t necessary for college interviews. A nice shirt, slack pants and black shoes will do for on-campus interviews, and normal but nice clothes will do in alumni interviews at a cafe. None of my interviewers wore those clothes that you indicated, except perhaps one of the shirts, but I just wore a nice collared shirt from Old Navy and it was fine.
Question: Should the student bring notes/questions to the interview or should everything to be addressed be memorized? Also, is it appropriate to take notes/write comments/additional questions during the interview?
^First question: It doesn’t matter. If you have a bad memory it helps to jot down a few questions, because it’s your opportunity to talk with an alum and you don’t want to leave the interview forgetting something you really wanted to ask.
Second question: I think it’s okay, but just don’t let it detract from the essay. If there’s an important point that you want to write down so that you don’t forget, that’s fine, but don’t make it seem like you’re attending a lecture or info session. The interview is meant to be a conversation.
DD has first interview on Monday. It is an on campus interview so I am guessing she will be meeting w/ an admin or other but not an alum. She made an activities resume to be used by the interviewer if he/she wishes. We thought it could help to direct the conversation.
I will suggest to DD to have pertinent questions prepared but that if she does not need them then not to worry. I will tell her it is OK to write down key points if she wishes. I know her though and she will not want to. She finds that taking notes takes away from a lecture or conversation.
Thanks for the input.
Okay. One more thing: when the interviewer asks if she has any more questions, she should not say no. She should ask some questions, or at least say something like, “I think you’ve covered most of what I wanted to ask. If I come up with any more questions, could I contact you?”
how do you guys arrange interviews over the summer (just contact admissions office?)
also, does anyone have any tips on how to contact alumni associations because most of the college sites ive been too dont have their contact info.
Contact the admissions office or see if there’s a link on the college website where you can request an interview. I don’t know the answer to your second question. When I asked Carleton if I could speak to alumni, they sent me a request form for interviews. But I did get in, without having to speak to a lot of alumni. If they don’t let you speak to a bunch of alumni, take the initiative and get something out of the interview.
arite thanks for the help
I have an interview at Bates coming up… I’m so nervous.
Just have a conversation. It’s really not that bad. They know you’re probably nervous. Have a few questions in hand as well.
You may very well be interviewed by a Bates student. Think of it as an opportunity to learn more about what this college might offer you as well as to talk about yourself. You can look at the college website ahead of time to learn more about academic majors and student activities that might interest you. Plan a couple of questions based on what you find that looks appealing—for example, I’m interested in languages but probably not as a major—can you do a language minor or concentration? Or what are some of the club sports I might get involved in? Is there theme housing? What kinds?
I definately am going to plan some questions. I’m just worried about the type of questions they’re going to ask me. I’m a pretty social person and when I’m comfortable I can easily talk about myself, but when I’m not I fall flat. My biggest worry is that I’m not going to be able to really give them a sense of who I am and why I belong there.
^ Don’t worry. We all worry about that. Just try to open up as much as you can. Just be friendly. =]
I have my Chicago interview in two weeks or so…
I know it’s not evaluative, but i’m still hella nervous. Anyone with Chicago interview stories?
A few questions… I’ve heard varying opinions but would like to know what type of attire i should be wearing for an interview at Washington and Lee? and any stories/advice from someone who has had one?
Typically you wear something you might wear to a fancy dinner. Nothing too extravagant is necessary.
fangsup: My interviewer talked about math THE WHOLE TIME.
^ ooh hopefully I will have the same interviewer 
My interview at Bates is tomorrow and I’m super nervous. What are some appropriate questions to ask? I’m just worried when they ask me if I have any questions, I’ll have nothing to say…