Hi,
I have an off-campus interview at starbucks tomorrow morning with a University of Rochester alumni. I signed up after receiving a letter in the mail encouraging me to do an in-person interview as a vital step in the process. I’m applying regular decision. For anyone who’s done an interview, how important is it for the admissions process? How did it go? Do I need to prepare/know a lot about the University?
Also, I’ve already submitted the application.
These interviews help assess student interest, which is a big deal to a school like URoch.
You should know what makes Rochester a good fit for you and what’s unique about it (beyond the myth that it snows there 24/7 for six months a year, which is not true, by the way). Things like flexible curriculum, lots of double majors among students, research opportunities, Rush Rhees library, Strong Memorial Health Center, classes at Eastman, groundhogs and championship quidditch. Whatever is important to you as a student and has helped to make it a school at the top of your own personal list.
Also, ask questions. But make sure they’re informed questions. Just as an example, a student with an interest in music might ask “How easy is it for Rochester students on the River Campus to take classes at Eastman?” rather than “Do you have any music programs at Rochester?”
And be prepared to talk about yourself in a way that emphasizes the things that make Rochester and you a good match. That both tells the interviewer about yourself and makes it clear that you’ve investigated the school and thought seriously about your place there.
Good luck!