My theory on interviews

Alexz825Mom
Sat, 08 Jan 2011 03:34:40 +0000

My d had a summer interview and was told that “we would love to have her here, she would be a great asset to our community, but I dont think this is the best fit that you could find for your d.” The AO then proceeded to make a list for me of schools that she felt would match my d’s academic needs. She admitted that she would be at the top of their academic ladder, and seeing that this was a situation that we were trying to leave, other schools would better suit her.

I was extremely impressed and I thank this AO constantly. My d would have been a catch at this school for many reasons but this woman who spent 2 hours with us on a warm summers day was just open, honest and was a caring professional and human being.

The AO at the school my d attends, asked us what qualities we were looking for in a bs and where else we were looking. She expressed her happiness that we were looking at a variety of schools for various reasons. She gave us the impression that this school met our criteria and to just look closely into not just what schools say but how they accomplish their goal. She not once made any negative comment on any schools. We even shared with her some schools that we interviewed with and then took of our list do to “non-fit”.

Another interviewer, asked us why we were even there? He said he didnt think that it was a good fit for our d, and then gave a written list of schools he felt would better serve my d.

For those that gave such great suggestions, I emailed and thank them, after our meeting and later to thank them again and share our decision.

Coming back to the topic, I think the interview is extremely important. There are a lot of academically admissible students, more students than available seats. I think, especially in the top schools they are looking for kids that will fit in and work as part of the community. An interview can give tons of information. I think the parent portion is almost as important and the students’. It was clear that I felt bs was a viable option for my d but it was up to her.

As a teacher of 17+ years, I can talk to a student and know if they read the chapter or just trying to bs me. Experience makes a difference. The majority of AO’s know what they are doing and that is somewhat reflected in their yield.