The alumni interview has become an essential part of the college application process and it’s a great way for you to learn more about a particular college while also sharing a bit about yourself. While you are probably prepared to answer any number of questions about your classes and interests, it’s important to be ready for that moment at the end of the interview when you will inevitably be asked, “Do you have any questions for me?” Read on for some suggestions of things to ask when it’s your turn.
Think of the alumni interview as a chance for you to see the campus through the eyes of someone who spent four years there:
- Where was your favorite place to study?
- Where did you hang out on the weekends?
- What’s your best memory of your time on campus?
- How has the campus changed since you were a student?
Consider the programs, activities, and services you are most interested in and find out what your interviewer knows about them:
- Did you study abroad?
- What was your experience with the career planning office?
- What were the most popular majors when you were a student?
- Was there ever a time when you didn’t get into a class you really wanted to take? What happened?
- What was your experience with college athletics? Were you at every football game?
Be thoughtful and give them an opportunity to tell you about themselves:
- Who was your favorite professor and what did you learn from them?
- What was your favorite class and why?
- If you had the chance to go to this same school again, would you still choose the same major or do you wish you had studied something else?
- Would you still choose this school if you were applying to college now?
- When was the last time you returned to campus and what did you do when you were there?
Before the interview, take some time and look up your alumni interviewer on LinkedIn. In addition to learning what they majored in and where they are working, you might get some ideas for additional questions. For instance, how did their major prepare them for the career choices they have made? How have they stayed involved with their school and their former classmates?
Remember that the alumni interview is a piece of your application, and the impression you make will be conveyed back to the admissions committee. Don’t bring a transcript or a resume; your interviewer can’t accept any materials from you. What they can do is share whether they think you will be a good fit for their alma mater. Being prepared and asking good questions goes a long way toward making you memorable.
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