I wish that during the 15 years I worked in boarding school admissions,I had kept track of how many students I interviewed. I imagine its a greater number than I would even guess. I loved to interview students and have that time to really get to know them -- who they are, what they hope to do, what they are looking for, how they might fit in at my school, and what they bring with them. Sometimes, it was very clear to me that a student was nervous -- perhaps it was their first time in an interview situation. So I would start with, Are you nervous? Its amazing how identifying that fear could somehow easily dissipate it as well. From there, we could talk comfortably with one another and explore what we wanted to explore. Many of the students I work with in boarding school guidance have not been interviewed before this point, which makes sense given their age. I like to guide them beforehand with how they might be more prepared -- both in terms of what they might be asked in an interview and what they might ask, as well as how to make a good impression.
This video looks at Miss Porter's School in Farmington, Connecticut.
What should I wear?
Im glad you asked! This is one of the first things I ask my students who are planning their visits!
