How important is the college interview?

Hey there! I'm a high school junior, and I've started to think about the college interview process. How important is the interview in the overall admissions process, and what tips do you have for making a good impression? Thanks for any advice!

Hello! It's great that you're starting to think about the college interview process early. The importance of the interview can vary depending on the college or university you're applying to. For some schools, the interview is a crucial part of the admissions process, while for others, it may be optional or less important. Generally, the interview is more important for smaller, private colleges where they have the resources to conduct interviews with most applicants. In any case, it's an opportunity for you as an applicant to showcase your personality, interests, and achievements beyond your application on paper. For making a good impression, I suggest preparing for common interview questions, like 'Tell me about yourself' and 'Why do you want to attend this school?'. Practice speaking confidently and clearly about your experiences and goals. Don't forget to ask thoughtful questions about the school as well — it shows your genuine interest. Good luck with your preparations!