One of the key factors, along with a wonderfully written out college admission essay, one needs is to prepare for an interview with the Dean or Admission board or officer.
As for students who are overseas, the interview is taken over the telephone, unless you are fortunate enough to make some visits to the colleges abroad and meet them in person.
When you meet in person, you need to also think about your attire, attitude and how you carry yourself in front of others, besides answering the right answers that is.
One of the key things you need to start with is “practicing” mock interviews at home in front of parents, friends, or siblings. The more you practice, the more you can construct proper meaningful answers and approach to the questions.
Some of the most common interview questions college admissions officers will ask you are:
* Why do you want to attend this university?
* What is your strongest/weakest point?
* What have you done to prepare for college?
* What has been your greatest experience in high school?
* Tell me about yourself (focus on three things).
* Tell me about your involvement in extracurricular activities.
* What do you want to do in the future?
* If you could meet any important figure in the past or present, who would it be and what would you talk about?
* What accomplishments are you most proud of?
These questions can be asked in person or in a phone conversation with your admission officer. In the meantime, whoever is meeting in person, always make a good first impression: dress appropriately meaning professionally, keep a straight posture while entering a room or sitting on a chair, and make good eye contact.
Drop the shyness and go ahead and brag about your accomplishments as a student, worker, or volunteer doing various extra-curricular activities. Clarify your weaknesses, if any. If confident enough, turn the tables and be confident to ask the interviewer some questions as well. Ask about the information that you desire to know about the institution.
Last but not the least, end the interview by sending them a thank you letter later on to show you are serious about your future.