While most admissions representatives understand that high school seniors may have limited interview experience, the students who really stand out are the ones that exhibit outstanding interest in the school and professionalism beyond their years.

Intimidated? Don’t be. Here are 10 things you should do to prepare for your interviews this fall:

1. Dress to impress
People say first impressions are everything. This cliché phrase applies especially to college interview settings. Looks certainly aren’t everything, but when you shake the hand of an admission representative, you are taking what might be a big step to being admitted to that school in the future. It’s important to make a great first impression.
One of my favorite interviewees last year had never been in an interview before. Despite his lack of experience, I was immediately impressed because he showed up in a full suit and tie. Though this level of dress may not be necessary in every interview situation, it can show that you are a serious, caring and mature student candidate. Besides, it never hurts to get a leg up on the guy who interviewed before you in the concert t-shirt and jeans.

2. Be prepared
There’s nothing less attractive than a student who comes to a college interview knowing absolutely nothing about the school he or she is interviewing to attend. The more research you can do about the school for which you are interviewing, the better off you will be in the interview. As you research, you will likely develop questions specific to your own interests.
Students who have questions about specific programs of study, activities or campus life that they have clearly researched are always more impressive than the student who seeks an interview just to learn about the school. The more you know, the better off you’ll be.

3. Ask specific questions that cannot be answered from the school’s website
Any student can scroll through a website and get basic numbers and information about a college or university. While it is important to know these basics (see #2) it is also important to come with questions that might not be readily available. While an interview is a chance for an admissions representative to evaluate how you would succeed at their given institution, it’s also an excellent way for YOU to evaluate the institution and how it would fit your needs.
Admissions representatives, especially if they are current students, often know the ins and outs of the university and can give you an inside perspective. Asking specific questions is also an excellent way to show the representative that you really care about your educational experience.

4. Be ready to “tell me a little about yourself”
The number one area I see students struggle with in an interview is the first question when I ask them to tell me a little bit about themselves. Often, students will ask “what do you mean?” or “what do you want to know”? It is crucial to sit down and think about three key things you want to convey to a college representative.
The students who impress me with their answers are those who are concise and introspective about their previous experiences. Usually, it is nice to finish with why you are applying to the given institution or what you are hoping to get out of the interview. Think it through, practice and keep it concise. Getting started is usually the hardest part of anything, so make it easy on yourself and spend time preparing an answer that is true to you.

5. Don’t ramble
I’ve conducted many an interview where students start off doing well in an answer and 20 minutes later they have completely lost me. Remember that the admissions representative responsible for your interview has specific things they are likely hoping to ask and if you take too long to answer, you might be limiting their ability to get as much information about you as possible.
 
6. Don’t let your parents do the talking
The college interviews I conduct are one-on-one with the student, but parents often come to visit as well. While your parents will likely be heavily involved in your college selection process, they should have little to nothing to do with your interview. Remember, when you go to college, you’ll be on your own in classes and social situations to speak for yourself. It is important you ask your own questions and DON’T let your parents do the talking for you.
I am always impressed with students who come in on their own fully confident and prepared. Showing an admission representative that you are mature and can handle things without the help of mom and dad helps prove to them that you are prepared to be in a collegiate setting.

7. Prioritize academics
While it is important to ask questions about every element of campus life, remember that an admissions representative is evaluating you first and foremost as a prospective academic student on their campus. If you had a semester where you struggled more than others or if there is something specific that you want to convey about your academic background, this is the place to do it.
Admissions representatives look for well-rounded students — especially those who are invested in their education. Colleges and universities want you to not only come, but to stay at their school until you receive a diploma. In order to do that, you must show them you are qualified academically.

8. Consider bringing something that represents you
While this may be something you have to gauge based on the college or university to which you are applying, it’s always a good idea to consider bringing a resume or other item that is representative of your skills and background.
One of my best interviewees was a prospective student hoping to play water polo at our university. While many sports candidates often have difficulty expressing themselves beyond their sport, this student was interested in pursuing art at our university. He brought a large booklet with pictures of sculptures he had created in the past few years. This blew me away and not only made him stand out but also gave me special insight to him as a student and person. Bringing something unique to you is a great way to make you a standout interviewee.

9. Spend some time thinking about what makes you, you
It is important to remember that most colleges and universities look for all different types of students. Spend some time thinking about what makes you special and unique. It’s good to be honest about your strengths and areas you hope to improve upon during your time in college. Admissions representatives value and look for introspective students who know what they could bring to a campus.

10. Go confidently in the direction of your dreams
Every student has a unique background and story, and most students apply to different schools for different reasons. Whatever your story may be, be confident in your past, present and future.
College is a great time to experience all facets of life, so don’t hold back in your college interview about conveying things you hope to experience. The more you value your future experience at a collegiate institution, the more valuable you become as an applicant.

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