Did it today. Some questions were:
15 mins with Pres Bush, what would you tell him?
3 people to a dinner party, living or dead, who woudl it be?
Recent books I've read.
Asked a few questions about my personal essay right away...
Asked about some of my ECs and details on some of the research I've done.
Ummm... If they went to my school right now what would people say about me?
Just random stuff. Seriously don't use canned answers.
Oh btw.
I MADE THE SECOND ROUND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!! I already got an email back!
Haha, thanks. I didn't realize it was such a big deal until I asked the recent UVA graduate in my lab today about it... Guess it means something when you're going for grad/med/law schools!
I dunno... those questions were really difficult. I just sorta managed to give quick answers and stay calm. To anybody who hasn't gone yet, my best advice would be not to take yourself very seriously, be frank and honest about who you are, and stay calm.
If you have time, browse the newspaper everyday until your interview if you don't already read it. You'd be surprised the randomness you'll remember that's actually relevent to the questions they ask.
I just got a call (no letter?) thirty minutes ago telling me I have an interview on Monday.
Really weird thing: the alumnus calling me was trying to schedule a time between 5:00 and 7:30. He mentioned there were thirty minute increments set aside. So I was trying to decide what time for a few seconds (I have a service project and two college classes that day), and he said, "Well, you're the second or third highest, so you have preference for whatever time". I said, "Oh, okay" and chose 7:00.
But, um, I'm 2nd or 3rd? Of what, the 5 or 6 kids they're doing that day? I'm pretty confused as to what he meant by that, but I was somewhat flustered at the moment and didn't ask. Hmmmmm.
Anyway, thanks for telling us about your interviews, guys. Now I'm nervous. . .
"Each year the Foundation identifies finalists via two avenues. The first is a system of 47 regional competitions around the country. The second is a separate competition for all students attending schools not eligible to compete in the regional competitions. This competition includes domestic applicants to U.Va. not residing in one of the 47 regions, all international applicants to U.Va., applicants to the Schools of Architecture and Nursing, and nominees submitted by 27 domestic and international secondary schools (known as "designated schools") with funds endowed to support Jefferson Scholars from those schools. Nominees from schools in this latter group must meet the same selection standards as other nominees."
> http://www.jeffersonscholars.org/und...selection.html
How should I dress up for my interview? a full suit? semi-formal? or just everyday clothes? Also, does anyone know how many rounds of interview there are?
After the first interview, there is a second round...only about 100 people make it past that and go to Charlottesville for the Scholars Weekend in March to compete for the 30 or so scholarships.
Euro- i wouldnt wear a full suit, but definently nice slacks/shirt (send both to the dry cleaners before hand, they'll press them for you nicely and they'll both look crisper), nice shoes, and a tie...also, shaving is necessary and maybe a haircut (just look well groomed)
I just came back from my interview. Three people interviewed me, and it was a fairly casual vibe -- we were all dressed nicely, but sitting on couches and chairs facing one another. They were all pretty nice.
Questions I remember:
- What is your favorite subject and why?
- Favorite character in a book?
- If you were elected into office, what would you make your focus?
- What would you say is your best trait? What would your friends say is your best trait?
- Who would you invite to dinner to talk to? (Note: just one person. Sweet relief).
- What do you like about your job? (I mentioned it in an essay).
A must: Read over your application before going. I did, and it helped me out when they made very specific references to different ECs and to my essays.
I made them laugh a few times, which relaxed me a lot. Also, they said they loved my personal essay. Other than that, I have no idea where I stand. (To be honest: I really don't think I'll win the scholarship. I'm just curious to see what they think of me).
A tip I have is to be conversational and open. Elaborate upon your answers and make eye contact. Really show off your personality -- I do believe it's a significant factor.
