I is for Interviews

This summer, I elected to stay in Williamsburg as a senior interviewer in the Office of Undergraduate Admission.  Eleven rising seniors at the College were chosen to interview rising seniors in high school, who are prospective applicants to the College.  The interview is a great opportunity for students to supplement their paper applications by showing us, in person, how enthusiastic they are about particular academic subjects or extracurricular activities.  Thus far, the job has been an absolute pleasure.  Each of us gives interviews, answers phones, leads tour groups- and gets to know the Dean staff.  There is a misconception among college applicants that the committee that reads applications is full of people who are uptight, old, and boring.  Quite the contrary!  Our Dean staff has mothers, fathers, half-marathon runners, spoken word poets, former varsity football and basketball players, William and Mary alumni, Fulbright scholars, and more!

I hope that you (a rising senior in high school) will elect to interview here.  If you do, here are a few tips to make the experience as comfortable and fun as possible!

1. Do not be nervous. One of the benefits of students interviewing students is that we understand how stressful the college application process can be.  We aim to make the interview into a conversation between friends.  There is no need to dress up or to feel uncomfortable.  Just be yourself. You are an impressive individual with a lot to share with us, and we look forward to getting to know you!

2. Connect with us. We appreciate speaking with students who are engaging in conversation and body language.  Speak confidently and maintain eye contact.  Answer questions as eloquently as possible- and feel free to pause to construct your ideas before answering difficult questions.

3. Show us how your interests might translate to college. How would your current intellectual curiosities manifest themselves in college research?  Where would you most like to study abroad?  How has your favorite class in high school influenced what you would like to major in or make into a career?

4. Be proud of your accomplishments without sounding conceited. Come on!  This is your opportunity to show that you are the best at what you do!  So, be sure to tell us about your strengths and greatest accomplishments in a tactful way.  We like to hear about how you have improved, so also feel free to mention your weaknesses and how you have learned to do better.

5. Ask thoughtful questions. The interview is not just about us finding out about you- we want you to ask any questions you might have about William and Mary and the college search process.  It is a stressful, but exciting time, and all the interns came to William and Mary through different paths.  Make the most of the opportunity to find out why each of us came, what our interests and activities are, and why we have all stayed.

“The first tradition is the tradition of belonging.  Who comes here belongs here.”  Student Handbook, 1949

Go Tribe,

Bailey