1 Alumni Interviews Princeton University and Harvard University February 25, 2015

2 Background  Alumni interviews are used by select colleges and universities in the admissions process as part of the overall review of a student’s application  Interviews are a chance for applicants to talk to someone that is familiar with the institution and for alumni and the admissions office to learn more about the applicants  Applicants should think of the interview as an opportunity to tell their own story, share their reasons for applying and ask questions  The number of applicants invited to interview may vary by institution:  All Princeton applicants will receive an invitation to interview  A large subset of Harvard applicants will receive an invitation to interview

3 What to Expect Before the Interview  After applications are submitted, candidates receive a call or from an assigned alumni interviewer to schedule a convenient meeting time and place  A prompt, polite response from the applicant to the interviewer is expected…first impressions are important!  A typical meeting location is a coffee shop, library, office or applicant’s school  Interviewers are not permitted to share names of applicants with anyone

4 What to Expect During the Interview  The interview should be a two-way exchange of information giving applicants the opportunity to ask questions  Appropriate dress code is neat school attire  Typical interview length is 30 to 45 minutes, no more than 60 minutes  The interviewer’s feedback is included in the application review, but the process may differ by institution:  Princeton interviewers submit reports directly to the admissions office  Harvard interviewers discuss and rank applicants as a committee. However, the decision rests with the admissions office

5 How to Prepare  Interviewers do not have access to a student’s application  Princeton should not ask for grades or test scores during the interview  Harvard should ask for GPA, test scores and class rank during the interview  Applicants should be prepared to share:  Their personal narrative to help interviewers get to know them as individuals…may include background, accomplishments, future goals, etc.  What interests them about the institution, what sets it apart in their selection process  Questions that demonstrate their excitement and interest  Applicants may be asked to talk about a favorite book or film, an interest or hobby, a job or summer activity. It’s not a test, but a conversation-starter  Work samples are not expected at the interview  No follow-up is expected, but a short note or is appreciated

6 Questions?