My theory on interviews

morris2
Sun, 28 Sep 2008 23:04:32 +0000

“- what is the kid’s attitude towards this school in particular and BS in general?”

I agree with this, more so from the standpoint of the child’s attitude of BS in general, less so of the school in particular. I think they realize many/most kids will play up their interest in the school

“How impressed was he/she with the tour and what is the interest level.”

Disagree with this, generally tours are usually given by students, while some feedback may be sought from the tour guides it will not be given much weight unless there is a huge red flag.

“- if the kid is capable of having a meaningful conversation with adults. So many of the classes are discussion based, that this seems like a really important element.”

I think it speaks well of the child if they can have a meaningful conversation with the interviewer, but I think you are projecting too much when you try to connect it to how they can perform in class.

“My son was asked why he wanted to go to BS, why the particular school, what other schools he had looked at and whether he would miss his friends or not.”

Very important question/s. Does the child want to be there or is it being driven by the parents, are they truly interested in BS.

“I don’t believe for a minute that a kid can be admitted on the basis of the interview alone; but it wouldn’t surprise me at all if a bad impression keeps a child from being admitted.”

Any one part of the application process can sink a child’s chances of admittance. I think that the interview is one of the most important aspects of the process; if not the most important. It is the one time the school can get a look at your child “unfiltered”.

“I think it comes down to personality in the end. Is this a person we want around for the next four years and how will his/her background contribute to our community?”

Exactly, that is why the interview is so important, it is the best way to examine the personality of the child.

“According to his interviewer, he did “very well,” but I have no idea what that means.”

Honestly, I don’t think it means anything.