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Preparing for Ivy League InterviewsApr 05 '00 Write an essay on this topic.Typically only the top-tier schools conduct interviews so I'll give you some tips on how to prepare primarilly for the Ivy Leagues: To start, a word about scores One of the first things to take into consideration is that the students they're interviewing typically have extremely high GPAs, SATs, and AP scores. Remember that the purpose of the interview is not to demonstrate or prove your ability to think analytically. You've already demonstrated that ability. Rather, the interviewers are looking for people with high emotional capacities and skills that aren't shown with numbers Your emotional quotient: Your key to success The Ivies are looking for leaders. And, the top leaders must possess more than just intelligence. They must also possess skills and a strong emotional capacity. Prepare to answer questions about how you've been in a setting or situation where you've had to convince someone or communicate something important. Activities like speech and debate or theatre are often indicators for good communication skills. Also show that you're personable. Be friendly and smile. Show that your life consists of more than just studying and that you're a person who can work in a team oriented environment. If you can, use work or school related experiences to show how you've contributed to a team or led a team. Research the school Explain to the interviewer why you want to attend his college. How are you going to fit into the academic and social life of the college? In which ways are you going to add to the school and what do you expect to take away from it? What's your long-term goal? Explain what makes this university unique and what unique characteristics you will contribute to it. Afterall, there are plenty of people with scores just as good as yours, so interviewers will be looking for people who will add something more than just scores. Show your indivuality, but do so in a proper way. This leads to the next point...dress conservatively. What to wear The first impression is the best impression. When you meet with your interviewer wear something appropriate. If the interview is business casual, wear a plain tie, a white long-sleeved dress shirt, slacks (preferably dark grey, dark blue, or black, but khakis will do) and a dark sports coat. If the dress is formal, wear a dark suit. Make sure your shoes are shined and you are well-groomed. At best your appearance will put you ahead of the rest of the candidates, but most people will probably dress similarly. So, failing to keep up your appearance will put you at a disadvantage...before you even begin the interview! Also, dressing properly will put you at ease during the interview. You don't want to worry about whether the interviewer happened to notice that ketchup stain on your sleeve. For the ladies, I'm not sure what's acceptable, but use your best judgement and dress conservatively, as well. Practice the interview at home Possibly one of the most important ways for you to prepare is to anticipate questions (i.e. Give a situation when you've had to lead.) and practice answering them. This will boost your confidence, and you'll avoid awkward gaps of silence and a flustered feeling while you try to come up with something on-the-spot. Also, be yourself. When you put on a mask and try to be someone you're not you will probably look phony. Nobody cares to talk to an insincere person, so act yourself. The interviewer, ultimately, seeks to know just that...who are you? What are you like? Being yourself and telling the truth will put you more at ease and keep you from getting trapped in a corner. Good luck with your interview and remember this may be the final leap to the finish. So, put effort and forethought into it. Afterall, your next four years, and possibly your entire life, will be dramatically altered based upon where you go to school. A few hours of pratice and setup will seem like nothing in the long-run, but the benefits will live on for decades.  |
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