By Adama Ahmed
The college application process is a lengthy and extensive one which most seniors undergo each year. A component of this process is the college interview. There is a lot of controversy as to whether the interview plays a real role in being admitted to college. Could this one interview “make or break” your chance of attending your dream school?
These interviews are often conducted by alumni or admissions representatives and are held at the college itself or a nearby cafe. The conversation can range from anywhere between 15 minutes to an hour.
The interview is supposed to provide a deeper understanding of the student and answer any of the questions which they hold about the college and the college process.
“Colleges are actually pretty good about communicating the level of influence that it will have on your application. So there are some schools that do not look,” said IHS guidance counselor Ms. Colman.
“There are other schools, especially ones where demonstrated interest is a factor, those schools that have interviews may use them more in their process.”
Xavier James, IHS senior felt that interviews demonstrate interest. “They let the college know more about you and your personality instead of just reading the essay.”
Senior Andie Leitner felt differently after recently having had an interview conducted at the Black Cat Cafe.
“No, I don’t think it really makes that much of a difference. It was a good opportunity to practice interviews because you have to do that in the real world, but I don’t think they actually hold much weight in the application process. Even my interviewer at the end said, ‘I’ll be sure to put in a good word but I’m not really sure how much weight that holds.’”
Andie’s experience is not uncommon, according to Ms. Colman.
“An interview with an admissions rep in an office on campus might have a different impact than an alumni in a Starbucks down the street. Just for the purpose that the admissions person might be the first person reading your application.”
Current seniors and rising juniors should be paying attention to whether or not their schools are considerate of interviews.
“[The interview] is not the thing that’s going to make or break an application. It’s an added piece to the puzzle,” said Ms. Colman.
