<p>What are your thoughts on asking a college interviewer "I was recently accepted early action to MIT and was wondering if you had any reasons why I should attend X University instead?</p>
<p>I read somewhere that putting the college interviewer on the defensive is a good tactic and shows that the student has an air of confidence. Particularly, I was accepted to MIT EA, and since the other colleges I’m applying to compete with MIT over cross-admits, I’m wondering if it is wise to ask this question? I’m concerned that such question would simply appear pretentious.</p>
<p>I’ve had like 6 interviews and among them, I’ve asked this question once or twice when I felt like it was necessary or natural. It’s a good question, one that I was told that I should ask when it felt right. I thought it would sound pretentious too but having gained some experience with interviews, I’d say it’s a genuine question to ask. It shows some interest too. If you’re gonna do it then ask in a passive manner, don’t have like an aggressive tone or anything. I think that will be the best way to do it.</p>
<p>OP: I’m an interviewer/recruiter (+20 yrs) for an HYP college.</p>
<p>You’re over analyzing things. If a student asked me that question, I would think “I’m here to tell you the best things about my school. If they fit you, fine. If not, fine. But I didn’t attend MIT nor in politeness, would I denigrate it over the offerings of my school”</p>
<p>I wouldn’t think that you were more or less confident. To be honest, I can only show you one side of things – you have more info about MIT than I do. If in reality someone asked me that question, all I could do is relate the fact that I also chosen by three top engineering schools but eventually decided based on X, Y and Z. Perhaps X, Y and Z are important to you, perhaps not. And I’m 100% okay with either scenario. You see, this is how a conversation takes place.</p>
<p>Perhaps your interviewer was also accepted at MIT or like schools. If he/she had the same dilemma, ask what made it easy or hard for them to choose. Be sincere. Remember: you can find great info during the interview. Your sincere search for this is more important than appearing “confident” before him or her.</p>
<p>I agree w/Black there about don’t be aggressive. Remember, I’m spending time away from other things to perhaps be your advocate to my school’s admissions board. Don’t look to put me on the defensive. Bad taste in my mouth.</p>