Once you have agreed on a short list of schools to visit, you must call and make arrangements for The Interview. Typically, this will take place while you visit the school. What is involved?
Almost every school wants to meet candidates for admission. The admissions test scores, teacher, principal, extracurricular recommendations, and the applicant's essay and parent's statement all offer a snapshot of an applicant at a particular time and place. Conversely, the interview gives the admissions staff a chance to fill in the missing elements and assess the applicant's character.
This video offers helpful advice on the private school admissions process.
Schedule well in advance.
Be sure to schedule your interview and school visit well in advance. Do not do this on a Friday afternoon, expecting to turn up the next day. There are only so many hours a day with limited interview appointments. If possible, get your interview out of the way by the end of November. Most applications, including the interview, need to be completed by the deadline.
What does the interview entail?
How long is the interview? It's usually about 20 minutes. What will the admissions staff ask? The person who interviews you wants to get to know you. He already knows who you are and what you have accomplished. He will be looking to see what kind of person you are, how serious you are about your school work, what your hobbies are, and so on.
This video describes the interview process and how to prepare for it.
What should I wear?
How should I dress for an admissions interview? Dress as you would for any semi-formal occasion. Men will look brilliant in a white or blue shirt, tie, slacks, and leather slipons. Women should wear a blouse, skirt, slacks, or a simple dress. Keep the footwear simple. Dress as if you were meeting the governor of your state or some other important official. This is not the time to make a fashion statement or dye your hair green.
Nor is it the time for chewing gum. Politeness is always appreciated. Look the admissions person in the eye. Smile naturally. She knows you are nervous. She is watching out for how you handle this new and unfamiliar experience. Show respect with polite phrases such as "No, Mr. Smith." "Yes, Dr. Binglemeier." Learn the name of the person who will be interviewing you. Use it. "Sir" or "M'am" is the appropriate greeting when interviewing at a military school. While advising about your appearance may seem superficial, remember that first impressions are crucial.
Ask questions.
The interview is not a one-sided affair. You have questions about the school. Don't be afraid to ask them. Asking questions proactively demonstrates your interest in the school. This is part of the admissions interview that you prepare for. After all, to compare three schools on your shortlist, you must ask the same questions to compare the answers.
Send a Thank You note.
A simple thank you note written by you, never typed or done on a computer, mailed the day after your interview is always appreciated. Why? Because it shows that you are aware of social etiquette. This simple gesture will make your application stand out.
This video describes the admissions interview in detail.
A final tip: relax. Be yourself. Good luck!
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