3 Common Questions Students May Ask in Admissions Interviews

Although not all colleges require them, admissions interviews are becoming a popular supplement to high school students’ college applications. And for good reason—admissions interviews are a great opportunity for prospective college students to demonstrate their interest in the school, determine if they’re a good fit for the college to which they’re applying, and, of course, ask questions about what it’s like to be a college student.

Applicants’ questions can vary widely. But there are a select few questions that might come up more frequently in admissions interviews than in others—and perhaps you’ll wish to ask them too.

Below are three common college admissions interview questions.

Admissions interview question #1: “What is campus life like for incoming freshmen?”

To a high school junior or senior, one of the most exciting transitions in life is the prospect of becoming a college student in the not-so-distant future. As a result, they often inquire about campus life to admissions interviewers.

Answering this question from multiple angles may be the best way to help students understand campus life, covering academic, extracurricular, and social aspects—from the best places to hang out on campus, to the most popular classes to take, to options for joining clubs. Knowing details about campus life can help a soon-to-be college student determine if a school is right for him or her. If the student’s lifestyle aligns closely with those of the students attending a given college, chances are the student will feel comfortable living and studying there.

The more a student knows about campus life (both the good and the bad), the more he or she will be able to make an informed decision come enrollment season.

[RELATED: What I Wish I Knew Before Freshman Year of College]

Admissions interview question #2: “What kinds of professional opportunities exist on campus?”

Besides asking about the social, academic, and extracurricular aspects of attending a given college, interviewees may also inquire about on-campus opportunities that can help further their future careers, including:

  • On-campus job openings

  • Networking or internship opportunities

  • The ability to conduct research in one’s desired field.

It’s a great benefit to incoming college students to know their options when it comes to opportunities that will help them pay for tuition and move forward in their future professions. It can help them make a smart college decision based on their financial needs, and also where they may best set up their post-graduation life (this can include careers and graduate school).

[RELATED: Why You Should Pursue an Internship in College]

Admissions interview question #3: “What degree programs match best with my interests/skills?”

Some interviewees go into college knowing what they want to major in, while others do not. Regardless, all college applicants can benefit from learning what degree program options are out there.

In addition, being familiar with a college’s degree programs can help applicants demonstrate their interest to a college in their application.

[RELATED: Is It Important to Declare a Major Before Starting College?]

 

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