Interview Tips
How to Prepare for a Successful Interview
- It is important that you have an interest in becoming a William and Mary student. If you don't like the school or your parents are forcing you to come, then perhaps you should strongly consider not having an interview. Remember these interviews are evaluative and will be considered part of your application should you apply.
- Be punctual. The interviewers have tight schedules and want to be able to give you your allotted time. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call us and let us know in a timely fashion.
- Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile.
- Make eye contact. This demonstrates that you are being honest and displays self-confidence.
- At William and Mary we do not require that you wear a suit to the interview. You may feel free to dress comfortably and wear something that fits your personality.
- It's okay to be nervous. Accept that you are nervous and don't let it consume you. Remember that you are being interviewed by a student; we can certainly relate to the anxiety you may feel in an interview setting.
- Be prepared to talk about yourself. This may sound like common sense, but you'd be surprised by how many students come in and tell us how hard it is to talk about themselves. It's one of the rare opportunities in your life when you are expected to brag about yourself; take advantage of it.
- We interview over a 1000 students throughout the summer, which means that we tend to hear the same answers over and over and over again. Surprise us; say something that you are certain will make you stand out from the rest of the interviewees. We are looking for unique and captivating students to add more diversity and excitement to our student body.
- Don't bother bringing resumes or transcripts. The Admission Staff will deal with all of the paperwork when you apply. For now, just bring yourself, some interesting stories and a positive attitude.
- RESEARCH! Know something about the College coming into the interview. Don't ask a William and Mary interviewer about our Mass Communications program because we don't have one!
- Talk about more than academics. The Admission Staff will know your GPA and the classes you've taken - that's all on your transcript. They want to know about your personality and what you will add to the William and Mary community.
- Don't list every extra-curricular activity you have ever been involved in. Instead, choose two or three and elaborate on these experiences.
- Ask questions. This is also your chance to interview us. Come prepared with questions and don't hesitate to contact us after the interview if you have more.
- Thank you notes and emails are greatly appreciated by the interviewers. We put them in your file and it gives us a pleasant reminder of your visit during the application process.
- BE YOURSELF! There is no such thing as a typical William and Mary student.
Good Luck!
