Most interviewers will reserve time -- usually a few minutes near the end of the conversation -- for you to ask questions. This is a chance to collect a valuable perspective about a school that you may have the choice to attend. It’s also an opportunity for you to connect with the interviewer in a new way and give them another glimpse of your intellectual curiosity. 

 

Take advantage of this!

 

As you consider questions to bring to the interview, think about what you’re looking for in your college experience. Academic rigor? Community? Diversity? Experts? Support? Resources? Culture? Use this part of the interview as an opportunity to learn about the two or three things that matter most to you. 

 

Avoid yes-or-no questions, like “Did you like it there?” Instead ask open-ended questions that open a true dialog and demonstrate what you care about. For example:

 

• What did you study? Would you make the same decision today?

• What can you tell me about the connection between your experience there and your career?

• Which activities did you participate in?

• Which values generally united the students?

• What did you learn while you were there that you wished you knew going in?

• What word comes to mind when I say [the name of the school]?

• What was the most valuable part of your experience there?

• I’ve heard many people talk about the friends they made in college. What can you tell me about yours?

 

It’s fine to bring a short list of your own questions written in a notebook. It's also fine to jot down a few notes while the interviewer answers your questions.

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Treat their responses like valuable wisdom. Listen actively. Respond when a natural opportunity arises. It’s great if their answer turns into a dialog that you both find engaging.

 

Ask your most important questions first. Unless the interviewer explicitly invites additional questions, limit your Q and A to five minutes or three questions and answers.