For students navigating the college application process, alumni interviews can seem like a critical and sometimes intimidating step. Some universities continue to use alumni interviews to provide applicants with a personal touchpoint, while others have phased them out due to logistical challenges or evolving admissions policies. While these interviews can offer valuable insights and connections, their actual impact on an applicant’s chances of admission varies.
What is an alumni interview?
An alumni interview is a conversation between an applicant and a university graduate, designed to provide prospective students an opportunity to showcase their personality, interests, and motivations beyond test scores and essays. These interviews are conducted by alumni volunteers who are passionate about their alma mater and want to help prospective students learn more about the school.
Alumni interviews generally fall into two categories:
- Evaluative interviews: These are factored into an applicant’s overall evaluation, with the interviewer submitting a report to the admissions office.
- Informational interviews: These serve as a way for students to learn about the school, with no formal impact on admissions decisions.
Students must understand which type of interview they’re being offered so they can prepare accordingly.
The reality of alumni interviews
Many students wonder if an alumni interview can make or break their application. The reality is that while these interviews add a human element to the admissions process, they rarely carry significant weight in final decisions. Here’s why:
- They provide a personal connection: Speaking with an alumnus offers applicants the chance to ask questions and hear firsthand about student life.
- They are not guaranteed: Due to the high volume of applicants, not every student is offered an interview, and not being invited to one does not reflect negatively on an application.
- They do not determine an applicant’s competitiveness: Admissions officers rely more on academic records, essays, and recommendations than interview reports.
- Interviewers have limited information: Alumni typically receive an applicant’s name, high school, and intended major but do not see their entire application.
While an alumni interview may not significantly sway an admissions decision, it is still an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impression.
The evolving landscape of alumni interviews
Over the years, the role of alumni interviews has shifted. Some universities, like Princeton, continue to rely heavily on their alumni networks to conduct interviews. Others, such as Columbia and Brown, have transitioned to video introductions, allowing students to record responses to predetermined questions for accessibility and consistency.
Additionally, some schools have eliminated alumni interviews entirely due to logistical challenges, concerns over equity, and changes in admissions policies. The recent Supreme Court decisions affecting affirmative action may further impact how interviews are used as schools reevaluate their selection processes.
Common concerns about alumni interviews
For many students, alumni interviews can feel scary. Here are answers to some common concerns:
- Do I have to accept an interview? While optional, declining an interview could be seen as a lack of interest in the school. It’s always best to accept if possible.
- What if I get an uncomfortable question? If asked anything inappropriate or too personal, it’s okay to politely decline to answer.
- Should I bring a resume? It’s not required, but it can be helpful to share if the interviewer requests it.
- Where do interviews take place? They are typically held in public locations, such as coffee shops and libraries, or virtually over Zoom.
- Should I send a thank-you note? Yes! A thoughtful email expressing appreciation for the interviewer’s time can leave a positive impression.
What’s the typical format of an alumni interview?
Alumni interviews generally follow a conversational structure and last between 30 minutes to an hour. While each discussion may differ depending on the interviewer’s style, most follow this general format:
- Introduction: The interviewer may begin by sharing their background and connection to the university before asking about you.
- Discussion of academics and interests: Prepare for questions about your school experiences, favorite subjects, academic challenges, and future goals.
- Extracurricular: Interviewers often ask about your activities, leadership roles, and the experiences that matter most to you.
- Behavioral questions: Some interviewers may ask about meaningful projects, personal growth, or challenges you’ve overcome.
- Your turn to ask questions: You’ll have the chance to ask about the interviewer’s experience at the school, campus culture, or specific programs.
- Closing: The interviewer may offer advice, share insights about the school, or explain the next steps in the process.
Where do alumni interviews take place?
The interview location depends on the university’s policies and the interviewer’s availability. Some options include:
- In-person: Often held in public locations such as coffee shops, libraries, or school campuses.
- Virtual interviews: Conducted over Zoom, Google Meet, or other video conferencing platforms.
- Phone: Some schools may allow or offer phone interviews as an alternative.
Each school sets its own interview policies, so students should review specific guidelines to know what to expect.
Tips for preparing for an alumni interview
To make the most of an alumni interview, students should approach it as a conversation rather than a test. Here are key preparation strategies:
- Review your application: Be familiar with what you wrote in your essays and how your experiences align with the school’s values.
- Research the school thoroughly: Be aware of specific programs, professors, or extracurriculars that interest you.
- Prepare clear answers: Be ready to explain why you applied and how you will contribute to the campus community.
- Highlight your unique experiences: Consider sharing personal stories or achievements that showcase your character and strengths.
- Be confident and authentic: Schools value genuine applicants, so focus on being yourself rather than delivering rehearsed answers.
Beyond preparation, following proper interview etiquette can help make a strong impression:
- Dress appropriately, even for virtual interviews.
- Arrive on time, whether meeting in person or online.
- Be polite, respectful, and engaged throughout the conversation.
- Send a thank-you note after the interview to express appreciation and reinforce your interest.
While an alumni interview may not be a defining factor in a student’s application, it’s still an opportunity to connect with the community, express enthusiasm for a school, and showcase one’s personality. With the proper preparation and support, students can approach these interviews with confidence and authenticity.
At Ivy Talent Education, we recognize that alumni interviews are an important part of the college application process. Our expert team offers personalized coaching to help students prepare confidently, providing guidance on crafting thoughtful responses and navigating any challenges that may arise. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to make your application process smooth and successful!
Author: Vy Mai
Date: April 7th, 2025