Most basic things you must do before your college interview

The Absolute things to do preparing for a college interview

Here are the things you should do preparing for your college interview, I will go over them briefly because some of them are covered in other sections in the web site. Stay calm and relaxed, talk slowly and be confident, do not rush into anything, not even to get some papers out of your bag. Think before you answer questions. Give short and full answers, do not talk to much.Bring copies of the application form and any references you think may help you, samples of past work you did, or any printed samples of you work. Try and show how much effort you went through to find college. Research, this is very important, research the college and know as much as you can before going to its college interview, it would make you look serious and keen on getting in. Ask Questions. Never leave an interview without asking at least 3 questions. Have a number of questions (college life, courses, financial aid) that you have complied beforehand and use them at the appropriate moment.

Listen attentively. Listen carefully to the questions asked. Ask the interviewer to restate a question if you are confused. Or if you need time to think of an answer just ask "How do you mean?" this will buy you time and will provide additional information.  Practice as much as you can, with relatives and friends, try and set as many mock interviews as you can and use as many questions as possible, do not memorize answers, but rehearse them a lot so you can have them out naturally and knowingly. Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Be prepared to talk about your weaknesses, but find a way to frame them positively.  Try on your suit and make sure that it is still well-fitting and in good repair. If necessary, make arrangements to have it altered or find alternate dress.  Look directly at the interviewer as you are asked and answer questions. Keep consistent eye contact. Show that you are serious and interested. Sit up straight. Don’t slouch. Keep both fleet planted on the floor.  Sit still. Don’t fidget, tap your fingers, play with objects lying nearby, etc.  Get a good night’s sleep before the college interview, rest and try to relax.Thank everyone in the room when the interview finishes, shake hands if they offer them to you, write a thank you note.

Here are general points of what was discussed in this section -

Arrive to the interview about ten minutes early.
Be friendly and cheerful, but not too intimate.
Don’t badmouth people, religions, races, political groups.
Focus on education and extracurricular activity.
Do not be late for your college interview.
Do not memorize answers, try to sound natural and conversational
Ask questions
Do not chew gum
Do not wear lots of cologne or perfume
Do not respond with only "yes" or "no" answers