College Interview Advice from Princeton Interviewer

Summary

In this video, John Burford, owner of Magnolia Prep and a Princeton alumnus, shares insightful advice for students preparing for college admissions interviews. Drawing from his personal experience both as an applicant and an interviewer, he emphasizes the importance of being relaxed and sincere during interviews. John explains that the goal is to add 'color' to an application, not to impress or boast. He also advises students to focus on authenticity, share their genuine passions, and ask meaningful questions about the school. His practical tips aim to ease the nerves and help students present their true selves with confidence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Relax: College admissions interviews are not make-or-break moments. They are an opportunity to add personal color to your application.
• 😀 Be Sincere: Don’t fake passion or interests; be authentic about your hobbies and experiences.
• 😀 Interviews Add Color: Alumni interviews give the admissions committee a personal perspective beyond grades and test scores.
• 😀 Take Advantage of the Opportunity: Use the interview to learn more about the school from someone with firsthand experience.
• 😀 No Need to Impress: The goal isn’t to show off but to engage in a casual conversation about yourself and your interests.
• 😀 Prepare Questions: Ask questions that reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of attending the school.
• 😀 Interviewer’s Perspective: Alumni interviewers have no access to your grades or resume, so they are seeing you with a blank slate.
• 😀 Authenticity Matters: Avoid claiming a passion for something you don’t actively pursue. It will come across as inauthentic.
• 😀 Don’t Overthink: The interview is just one part of the process, and it’s mainly about adding personal context to your application.
• 😀 Don’t Stress the Outcome: For Princeton, at least, the interview won’t determine your admission but will add insight into who you are.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of a college admissions interview according to John Burford?

The main purpose of the college admissions interview, as explained by John Burford, is to add color to the applicant's application. It offers a personal touch and allows the admissions team to learn more about the applicant beyond the written application.

How does John describe the role of alumni interviewers in the admissions process?

John explains that alumni interviewers have no decision-making power in the admissions process. Their role is to provide a personal perspective on the applicant and share insights about the school, not to influence the admission outcome.

What advice does John give to applicants about their mindset going into an interview?

John advises applicants to relax and not overthink the interview. He emphasizes that the interview is not a high-stakes situation but an opportunity to add depth to the application and learn more about the school.

How does John recommend applicants should approach their interests when discussing them in an interview?

John recommends applicants be sincere when discussing their interests. They should focus on what genuinely excites them and avoid pretending to have a passion for something they aren't truly interested in.

Can an applicant's interview negatively impact their chances of admission?

According to John, for undergraduate admissions at Princeton, the interview has no direct impact on the applicant's chances of admission. It is simply a way to add a personal touch to the application and give applicants a chance to learn more about the school.

What should applicants do to make the most of their opportunity to ask questions during the interview?

John encourages applicants to ask thoughtful, specific questions that go beyond general information. This is an opportunity to learn about the daily reality of attending the school and to get behind-the-scenes insights from someone who has experienced it.

What are some of the characteristics that John values in a sincere applicant?

John values applicants who can speak authentically about their experiences and interests. For example, he mentions a student interested in medicine who was able to discuss his activities and experiences related to the field, making his passion clear and credible.

What example does John give of an applicant who was not sincere in their interview?

John recalls interviewing a girl who claimed to be passionate about the environment but couldn't provide any evidence of her involvement in environmental activities. This lack of authenticity made her appear insincere, which John viewed negatively.

How did John's personal experience as an interviewee influence his perspective on interviews?

John's personal experience as an interviewee showed him that interviews are more about personality and fit than about impressing the interviewer with accomplishments. He was able to relax and have a conversation, which shaped how he later approached his role as an interviewer.

What is the significance of a college admissions interview for schools like Princeton?

For schools like Princeton, the interview serves as an additional way to learn more about the applicant beyond grades and test scores. It helps admissions teams assess the personal qualities and interests of the applicant, which can give a fuller picture of their potential fit at the university.