What information is given to Stanford alums about the applicants they interview?
Do they receive anything more than name and location?
Intended major? Info regarding extracurriculars? Anything else from application?
Should an applicant assume the interviewer knows nothing about them?
It really does depend on the season of admission.
About 10 years ago, my husband interviewed some candidates. It was name, location, and major but I don’t remember if he was given resumes. He has been asked to interview, (apparently he received positive, strong feedback for his style) but he just doesn’t have that kind of time anymore.
Basically, they are looking for fit. Your child cannot expect to pre-prepare for these interviews- it’s different with every interviewer.
Thank you. I think she was just wondering if the interviewer asks her to tell them about herself whether she is starting at square one (absolute stranger) or more like a job interview where her resume has been briefly reviewed ahead of time.
My husband does Princeton ones and I do Emory ones. We are given name, school, and a few interests. It’s the minimum. I know Lafayette is the same and would guess Stanford too. The school’s are looking for fit and interviewers each have their own style. Have fun with it!
The interviewer will lead the Q & A, and “break the ice”. They reassure the students and just want to hear what the student brings to a conversation.
A former student of mine had a Harvard interview. Both she and her interviewer discovered a shared affinity for Board games. They discussed favorite Monopoly pieces/real estate, Battleship strategies, Risk, Scrabble, etc. You never know what will be discussed and what will be of interest.
I used to do Duke alumni interviews. We were given basic info: Name, phone number, High School, email, ED vs RD and thats about it. No resume or other information. I imagine most other colleges are similar.
Note that the alumni interview doesn’t factor in much towards the decision at all, at least at Duke. It was done merely for engaging the alumni association. The alumni have very little influence on whether you are accepted or not.
Even for a job interview, never assume that the interviewer has reviewed your information.