College Visits and Interviews

There are a number of benefits to visiting colleges or universities.

• You will be able to assess more accurately, whether the institution meets your needs.
• You may be able to meet with faculty and students.
• By visiting the institutions, you will raise your profile with admissions officers and thereby possibly enhance your chances of admission.

The best time to visit is during the summer vacation between S6 (Grade 11) and S7 (Grade 12), and when the college is in session. If you do have an opportunity to visit colleges and universities, make sure that you write to the admissions officers requesting a tour, and write a thank you letter following your visit.

It is a good idea to keep a journal of your visits so that you can reflect upon the colleges.

You may be able to arrange an interview during your visit. Be prepared and review the Interview section below. Make sure you have a copy of your transcript available and are ready to answer questions about your extra curricular activities, interests, and why you may want to attend that particular college.

If you are unable to visit, many websites offer virtual visits that may be helpful. You can also make contact with admissions officers by writing to them and expressing an interest in their institution.

The College Interview

The college interview may be the first formal interview you have ever experienced. If you are unprepared, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. Here are some tips:

• Make sure you are dressed comfortably. Not too formal or informal, and appropriately for the weather and interior air-conditioning/heating.
• Remember that your body language can influence the interviewer. Try to relax and be yourself without lounging or appearing to be over-confident.
• Take some time to think about your answers and ask for clarification about a question if needed.
• Remember that interviewers are often as keen for you to like their college as you are for them to like you!

Reflect upon the common interview questions below to help you to prepare for your interview.

Common Interview Questions

• Why do you want to go to college?
• Why do you want to go to this college?
• Tell me something about yourself.
• What is special about you?
• Tell me three adjectives that describe you.
• What is your greatest strength as a student/individual?
• How has an international education influenced you?
• What is your most positive/negative experience?
• What has been your greatest academic achievement?
• What school activity has been most meaningful to you and why?
• What are your career goals?
• What have you contributed to your school community?
• What are your hobbies and interests?
• Tell me about the last book you read.
• Do you have any questions? (You should have some appropriate questions prepared!)