Helping Students Shine in College Interviews
One of the most exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) steps for students on their college journey is sitting down with admissions for a College Interviews. We help students prepare with practical strategies to communicate naturally and confidently.
At Emerging, we encourage our students to approach interview questions with the Answer + ONE formula. This method helps them craft responses that are not only clear and concise but also leave a memorable impression by adding depth and personality to their answers.
Here’s how it works:
- The Answer
Start with a direct and thoughtful response to the question asked. This ensures the interviewer gets the information they’re looking for right away without having to dig further. For example:
Question: “Why are you interested in this college?”
Answer: “I’m drawn to your strong environmental science program and opportunities for hands-on research.” - The ONE
Add one additional element that goes beyond the basic answer. This could be a personal story, a connection to the college’s values, or a unique insight that showcases your enthusiasm, personality, or goals.
Continuing the example:
“For instance, I recently led a community project to restore a local wetland, which inspired me to pursue this field. I love how your program combines academics with meaningful fieldwork, like the project at [specific research station or example].”
Another tool we use is a Focus Points Toolkit, which helps them organize their thoughts around a few core ideas:
Key Messages
We encourage students to distill the essence of who they are into clear, memorable takeaways for their College Interviews. These messages are the main ideas they want to leave with the interviewer, such as their dedication to a particular passion, a standout academic strength, or a unique background that has shaped their perspective.
Supporting Details
Engaging stories make a lasting impact. Therefore, we guide students in choosing real-life examples that align with their key messages. For instance, they might share a moment when they took the initiative in a club or a time when they overcame a challenge. In doing so, these details transform abstract qualities into vivid, relatable memories for the interviewer.
Values and Motivation
Colleges look for students who bring genuine enthusiasm and a sense of purpose. Therefore, by helping students articulate what drives them—whether it’s a desire to contribute to a specific field, a love of community, or a goal inspired by a personal experience—we ensure they clearly express what fuels their academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Unique Qualities
Everyone has something that sets them apart. We encourage students to reflect on their quirks, accomplishments, or hobbies that make them unforgettable. This could be a talent that’s taken years to master, a perspective they bring to group projects, or even a memorable trait friends love about them.
With these, students feel ready to make the conversation meaningful and memorable, leaving a strong impression on their interviewer.
