<p>I have been considering interviewing with colleges before I start applying this fall… I heard that they allow you to show interest in the school and such- but what are the real Pros and Cons in interviewing with admissions? The colleges I would think about interviewing with are USC, Syracuse, and possibly UC Berkeley if that helps.</p>
<p>UC Berkeley does not have interview.</p>
<p>Look on common data set for each school, schools may place larger or less emphasis on interviews. WashU for example has been known to really value student interest, but at other schools student interest is not even considered. Interviews is probably the best way to demonstrate strong interest.</p>
<p>It gives you a leg up at competitive schools. Unless you are interviewing for scholarships, it’s generally not worth to do at a low match/safety school. If you have the stats and you are applying to selective institutions, interviews are one of the best ways to literally get to know you as a person and a student. </p>
<p>The cons, obviously, are travelling to all the universities. I take it you are a Cal resident? Syracuse is pretty far, and many doubt it may be worth the trip just for an interview. Many schools offer off-campus interviews around the country, so that may be something you will want to take advantage of.</p>
<p>Of course, the obvious con would be that you may come across in a way that the college may not like. Make sure you are dressed appropriately and you are well-prepared to talk about yourself and your interest in the school. If you were for example applying to the University of Miami in the middle of summer I doubt they would expect you to come in with formal attire. Don’t come off across as arrogant or conceited, but do not be afraid to talk about your strengths - and weaknesses.</p>
<p>Some colleges do care if you show interest but others don’t consider it, so check on that for your colleges. For instance:</p>
<p>Does UC Berkeley conduct applicant interviews?</p>
<p>No. The volume of applications received each year is simply too great.</p>
<p><a href=“http://visitors.berkeley.edu/faq/general.shtml”>http://visitors.berkeley.edu/faq/general.shtml</a></p>
<p>Okay thank you! I’ve heard from a lot of people that Syracuse (I am thinking of Newhouse) really likes seeing student interest so that is where I got the idea for interviews… and I’m not surprised Berkeley doesn’t offer interviews! Haha so many applicants- not enough time</p>
<p>For USC, you can’t actually get accepted to their grad b-school without an interview.
Check about undergrad, but I imagine that they are a school that cares about interest & fit. On the other hand, they are also huge for a private.</p>