LIFE

Maybe college is a far-off thing that you don't need to think about for awhile, or maybe it's right on the horizon for you. No matter how close or far away college is, it never hurts to start planning for it. Interviews with college admission officers are a great way to acquaint yourself with a college, and for the college to meet you! Here's top tips real GL girls swear by so you can enter your interview feeling cool and confident.

Consider possible questions and answers in advance

Don't feel like you have to memorize questions and answers like you're cramming for an algebra quiz, but it can def help to become more comfortable talking about yourself. Try searching sample college interview questions and reflecting on your own experiences. One question you might get asked is what major you're most interested in. Even if you're undecided, knowing several potential paths you're passionate about—and why you're excited about them—will give you more to talk about and help the interviewer get to know you. And that's what they *really* want; to get a sense of who you are and how you could contribute to their school.

Think about specific experiences and stories you can discuss

Though you don't need to have a story ready for every question you get asked, it's great to be able to link some specific memories to an answer. Campbell, 17, says, "When I was asked about my academic weaknesses, I was able to tie my answer (lack of organization) to chemistry class, where we had so many worksheets. I couldn't keep track of them all and was constantly behind on my homework. I also talked about how because of that experience, I started to keep a planner and now I'm on top of my work!" Having an anecdote to relate to your answer paints a specific picture of who you are, which is what this interview is all about!

Ask an adult, sib or friend to rehearse with you if you want extra practice

If you've never done an interview like this before, don't worry—you're not alone! For a lot of people, college interviews are their first time talking at length about themselves. But it can be *super* helpful to get another person's perspective on what you want to chat about. Plus, you can practice giving clear and concise answers. "I'm a big planner, so the unpredictable aspect of the interview was a little daunting to me," shares Amanda, 17. "Practicing over and over again with my grandma, big brother and BFFs really helped me feel confident for any question college interviewers were going to ask me!"

Prepare a question about the college and have it ready

Chances are, your interviewer will finish the convo by asking if *you* have any questions for them. Save yourself from stressing in the moment by prepping 1-2 questions ahead of time. Not sure what to ask? Try exploring the school's website or social media pages and thinking about your interests. Possible questions could include, "What are some of the more popular clubs on campus?" or "What kinds of academic support are available for students?" Having a range of questions will give you more insight into the school, and will give your interviewer more insight into what is important to you. Plus, you'll appear more engaged, focused and interested in the school, which can definitely leave a positive impact.

Get a good night's sleep

It might be hard to let your mind rest—no doubt it's running a mile a minute! But catching those z's are the best way to ensure you're well rested and alert for your interview. Theresa, 18, remembers her experience: "I was so nervous and stayed awake for hours! When I finally woke up, I had the *biggest* bags under my eyes. I managed to get them under control with some makeup magic, but still. It made me even more stressed." You want to stand out and be memorable, but not for being the girl who let loose a big yawn in the middle of her interview! If you're finding it hard to drift off, drink some warm milk, take a hot bath and dream about acing your interview. 

If your interview is virtual, troubleshoot any possible tech troubles...before the big day

Many college interviews this year will be done through Skype or Zoom. If this is the case for you, make sure to charge your computer the night before, get your headphones back from your little sister and do a practice Zoom run to make sure the app doesn't randomly update two seconds before you log on to your *real* interview!

Take a deep breath...

You've prepared your questions, practiced your answers and picked out the *perfect* formal outfit. Now all that's left is the actual interview itself—gulp! Though you might feel butterflies in your stomach, take a few deep breaths to loosen any tension. You can do it!

...and be yourself! 

It might *sound* really impressive to tell admissions officers that you're on the varsity tennis team, your favorite book is Crime and Punishment and on the weekends you research cures for cancer—when you're not tutoring little kids. Sure, that all sounds cool, but unless it's true, colleges don't want to hear it. They'd much rather learn about what makes you, YOU! Take it from this GL girl: "The interviewer asked what my favorite movie was. I wanted to say something really impressive, but blurted out Legally Blonde—my actual favorite movie! Turns out, that was her fave too! We ended up talking about how Elle Woods being an icon for girl power, and it was a really great moment that came from the heart," shares Natalia, 17.

Good luck! And remember, you've got this! We believe in you!

GIFs via GIPHY. Photo by Magnet.me on Unsplash.

by Ariane Faro and Elina Graham | 2/7/2021