University of Chicago College Interview

unalove
Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:30:55 +0000

^^ My on-campus interview was very different. My interviewer asked me about the classes I was taking, which was all she needed to do to watch me rant and rave about different academic disciplines. No curveball questions, just, “So, you told me you’re taking AP Physics. How do you like it?”

My general advice is to have an answer prepared for questions like, “What is your favorite book?” and “What current event are you most interested in right now?” these are sort of common, softball questions that can catch you off-guard.

Don’t be afraid to say, “Hm, let me think.” It’s much worse to jump into an answer immediately, only to realize it wasn’t what you wanted to say at all, than it is to sit and think a while. Nobody expects you to spitfire a response, and showing that you’re thinking carefully before answering is a good sign.

I also suggest that you look at the University’s website and research some of the programs you’re interested in, so that you can talk about what you found.