Admission

Steer the interview your way with these ten tips

Claude Anderson
NNMH Dean of Enrollment

Interviewing can be a daunting process—sweaty palms go with the territory. In fact, nerves are a good sign: They mean you care about doing well. Your admission officer understands how you feel and is there to put you at ease, so take a deep breath and enjoy the conversation. Remember, this is an interview, not an inquisition! With that in mind, here are ten tips to help you get the most from your interview.

1 Schedule visits at non-peak times, usually early in the admission season. If you get in ahead of the busy season, admission officers will have more time to focus on your needs and will likely remember more about you.

2 Send any great information about yourself to the school, at least a week ahead of your interview. This gives your admission officer a positive impression of you before you meet.

3 If there’s any not-so-great information, offer it during the visit.If you have learned something from your less-than-stellar experience, say so. Although hiding information may get you past the interview, it won’t make you feel good.

4 Plan and talk about something at the school that excites you. Show your enthusiasm during the interview.

5 Make the most of the interview. See if the school is right for you. Both you and the interviewer are looking for a good fit.

6 Stand up and smile when you greet your interviewer. Give a firm handshake and look him or her in the eye. Remember that you are part of the relationship-building experience; meet the admission person halfway and you’ll get great results.

7 Show your interest in learning. You are applying to a college prep school, which means you should enjoy learning. Talk about what educational challenges you like and what you hope to learn at the school.

8 Show your personality. Charismatic people may have a slight advantage in an interview because their personalities are readily visible. Reserved people who are thoughtful or analytical may not fare as well because they take time to warm to the interviewer. Jump out of that box for the interview; risk a little.

9 Thank the interviewer for his or her time. You get bonus points if you seem genuinely appreciative, especially if you say “thank you” before your mother or father nudges you.

10 If you spend time with a student host, be friendly yet respectful. Most admission offices will get feedback from the student, and it may have some influence on the decision.

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