Hi!I’m currently in the process of applying to various boarding schools and although I know its late, I have my first boarding school interview on the 13th.I was wondering if anyone who had already done their interview could offer some advice if possible, thanks!
My daughter has already done several interviews.
It seems that pretty much universally, interviewers are hoping to get a good idea of what you are really like as a person. They are not looking for some ideal kid, they instead want to get a feeling for whether you would really thrive in their community of many different kids. I think this sort of evaluation is often scary for kids going into interviews, but fortunately being a little nervous is perfectly fine. As long as you focus on listening and giving honest, thoughtful answers, and showing some genuine enthusiasm when appropriate, you will do what you are supposed to do.
In terms of preparation, thinking about why you are interested in this particular school, and what else you could learn that would help you better decide if it is a great choice for you, is always a good idea. You do not need to know everything about the school, but you can study the sorts of things that particularly matter to you.
If you like you can also think about how you might answer some common sorts of questions. Things like what you see as strengths and weaknesses in yourself, what you like or dislike about your current school, things you particularly enjoy, and so on. But I really don’t think you want to go crazy with preparing answers to these questions. Just more understand how these can be topics and maybe think about them a bit.
Of course this is all just based on what I have heard and a handful of experiences. But I am pretty confident it is in fact consistent with what interviewers are looking for.
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It’s a conversation. The AO isn’t trying to trick you ,– they’d like to see you at your best.
In advance, do some reflection. What do you like best at school and why? Least? How do you like to spend time outside of school? What do you like to read? What do you want your high school experience to be? Why BS? Why this one in particular?
You can ask questions about things that interest you, whether it’s about private music lessons, intramural sports, more about living on campus, etc. Try to ask things that aren’t on the website.
Relax and enjoy – they aren’t trying to eliminate candidates but instead find reasons to admit them!
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Thank you so much!
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Thank you so much for your response!
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I only have 2 interviews left, and I’ve done about 7 so far; they’ve all gone very well, and honestly, it’s all because I’ve just been myself. Highly recommend showing them what makes you, you. Chances are you’ll have at least 1 thing in common with your interviewer, and you’ll be able to yap about that with them. Pls don’t forget it’s really just a conversation!
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tysm!!
Hi! DS has completed all but one or two late add interviews. His virtual interviews definitely felt less connected than the in person interviews.
We had two in person where the interviewer also toured us (instead of a student guide). Those both seemed to go very well - but they didn’t get to hear some of DS important facets that he would have shared if they asked more direct questions. Those tours were basically walk-along interviews and DS focused more on his sport than on other areas that really make him stand out. But they have been actively engaging with us and even requested DS apply ED at both No idea if that’s a good sign or typical
However in the sit down interviews after a student led tour, every single one seemed to be amazing. We got tremendous feedback from each AO about how he seems much more mature than his age and has unique interests that would be a big asset to their school. Also no idea if that’s pretty typical feedback or not. They have also been very good and following up regularly.
DS very first tour and interview went well - and the AO was fantastic, but he basically let us know the school wasn’t going to be a good fit. We went through our list and he gave us insight into schools we should pursue - and why - which was hugely helpful. He knew it was our first tour and we were new to the BS world and really walked us through a lot of things forever grateful for him taking the time with us and ensuring we didn’t waste our time at some schools and that we looked into others. He has been spot-on too!
Overall, preferred the more traditional interview setting and would avoid virtual just for the lack of real connection. But DS did well and didn’t feel attacked or pressured in any interviews. All very friendly and easy. So much so he missed making sure to point out certain high points so be sure to have a list and don’t be afraid to look it over to make sure your questions are all answered and all the bullet points you want to share about yourself are checked off. Good Luck! You got this.
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Love this so much! It’s a great reminder to all applicants that the schools really want their students to succeed. And they know way more about what that looks like at their school than you do, so if you are lucky enough to get this k8nd of feedback in the process, heed it! A rejection is another form of this but it doesn’t feel as good.
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