Interviewing

Interviews are not required at Oberlin. We consider interviews to be a conversation. They are a way for us to become better acquainted with a student and for the student to ask questions about Oberlin. They are an informal exchange of information – we do not use interviews to eliminate students from consideration.

Most students who interview with an alumni representative never have face-to-face contact with an admissions counselor. These interviews give students a chance to make a personal connection with a representative of the college, which can be important when it is time for the students to decide where to enroll.

In most parts of the country, interviews are scheduled at a time and place that is convenient for the student and the alumnus. In January, we have alumni interview days in major metropolitan areas — Boston, New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. At these events, students and alumni come to a central location (typically a high school) for the interview. An admissions counselor and a faculty member are present at the alumni interview days to help answer questions.

As you conduct interviews, here are some documents that you may find helpful:

• Blank Interview Report Form (we prefer that you email the write-up to us at arn@oberlin.edu)
• Tips for Conducting Interviews
• Suggested Interview Questions
• Rating the Interview
• Sample Interview Write-ups
  • Good write-up, strong candidate
  • Good write-up, average candidate
  • Good write-up, bad candidate
  • Not as helpful write-up 1
  • Not as helpful write-up 2

If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact Josh Levy, ARN Coordinator, or Jennifer Harris, ARN Administrative Assistant, toll free at (800) 622-6243 or via email at arn@oberlin.edu.