Depending on your personality, you may be eagerly anticipating your college interview or seriously dreading it. Either way, relax! An admissions interview isn't a do-or-die experience.

What to expect
Hiring managers use job interviews to decide whether or not to hire a candidate for employment. College admissions interviews are not the same. The conversation is only one piece of your larger college application, which also includes your essays, transcript, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Your college interview is not your only chance to make an impression on the school, but it's certainly your opportunity to make a personal impression.

How to prepare
A good way to prepare for your college interview is to role-play the conversation with a friend. Take turns asking each other your strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes. Practice talking about why you're interested in a particular school, and be specific. Are there any holes in your application, such as low grades or test scores? Use the admissions interview as an opportunity to talk about perceived weaknesses in your application, and accentuate positive outcomes wherever possible.

What to ask
Demonstrate your interest in the school by asking questions that are not answered on the college Web site. If your interviewer is an alum of the school, for instance, that may be an open door to ask about his or her undergraduate experience and how the school has changed since he or she was a student. You can also ask for advice on ways that you as an individual may become a successful, contributing member of the student body.

What NOT to do
There are a few no-nos for college interviews. First, don't be late. It's disrespectful, and it may cut your interview time considerably. Don't dress the part of a college student, either. Ripped jeans and profane sayings may be appropriate attire for a Friday night on campus, but it's not suitable for your admissions interview. Don't swear or lie, and don't be rude or arrogant. Be yourself - just be the cleanest version of yourself possible.

A college interview provides an opportunity to express your personality beyond grades and carefully measured essays. It's a chance for the school to spend a few minutes with you and get a glimpse of your uniqueness. Have fun with it!

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