Visiting boarding schools that you and your child are seriously considering is an exciting step in the admissions process. During these visits, you'll meet with admissions staff and possibly even a dean or the head of school. It's natural to want to make a great impression. You will put your best foot forward when you meet with these people. However, you will be in unfamiliar surroundings.
When parents think about secondary school interviews, they tend to focus on prepping their child for the all-important, anxiety-inducing applicant interview. The parent interview, which usually takes place during the same visit, can seem less significant, and parents often neglect to prepare for it in the same way. However, with a little planning, the parent interview can be a real asset to your student's application. Source: Secondary School Admission: The Do's and Don'ts of The Parent Interview...The Fay School
So, my advice is to relax, stay calm, and, above all, not let your nerves get the better of you. Here are some tips to help you navigate the admissions interview successfully.
This video shows a day in the life of Exeter.
1. Be Mindful About Discussing Learning Challenges
While honesty is important, there's no need to highlight minor learning issues during the interview. Admissions staff are adept at interpreting academic records and test scores, so let those documents speak for themselves. On the other hand, if your child has a diagnosed learning difficulty, ensure you're applying to schools equipped to support those needs. Focus on showcasing your child's eagerness to excel and commitment to personal growth.
An interview is an opportunity for us to learn more about you. During this time, you will have a conversation with an admission officer about your academic, co-curricular, and social interests. We invite all prospective students and families to meet with one of our admission counselors as part of the admission process. We offer both on-campus interviews and tours and virtual interviews. Source: The Hill School
2. Avoid Bragging About Achievements.
Parents are naturally proud of their children's accomplishments, but in an admissions interview, subtlety is key. Rather than boasting, let the application highlight your child's achievements. If your child is a standout athlete or has unique talents, consider having their coach or mentor provide a recommendation. This approach can positively impact their application.
3. Maintain a Gracious Demeanor
Nerves can sometimes lead to a less-than-ideal demeanor. While asking questions is essential, ensure you are respectful and not overly aggressive. Prepare your questions in advance after researching the school's website. The interview is an opportunity to establish a partnership with the school, so presenting yourself as a cooperative and open-minded parent is crucial.
If you're applying to multiple schools, arrange to visit/interview with your preferred school last. You'll have the chance to practice these conversations with the schools that are lower down your priority list, so you can learn from any mistakes or anything you forget to ask or convey. By the time it comes around, you'll feel more confident and the parent interview with your first choice school will be a breeze. Source: Atom Learning
4. Avoid Offering Financial Incentives.
Financial contributions in the past might have swayed some schools, but this is no longer the case. Schools today prioritize diversity and inclusivity, so focus on finding a school that aligns with your values rather than attempting to influence decisions with money. Dress modestly for the interview and avoid ostentatious displays of wealth. If security is an issue, have your staff alert the school that your helicopter will need to land on the football field and determine when that can happen.
This video offers a tour of Woodberry Forest School in Virginia.
5. Refrain from Flaunting Connections
Mentioning influential connections or offering high-profile recommendations can come across as arrogant. Let any notable recommendations be discovered naturally within your child's application. Schools appreciate parents who support them quietly and respectfully, and your connections will be noted appropriately once your child is admitted. If your child is a third-generation legacy, the school will be well aware of that fact
Ultimately, the admissions interview is all about building a relationship with the school. Be yourself, and let the admissions staff evaluate your child holistically. They are experienced professionals who will consider the complete picture before making their decision.
Sound Advice
Here are three sources that discuss what parents should say during a school admissions interview for their child, along with common mistakes to avoid:
Fay School: How to Ace a Parent Interview for School Admission
Fay School in Southborough, Massachusetts, emphasizes the importance of balancing honesty and optimism during the interview. Parents should highlight their child's strengths without bragging and mention weaknesses in a way that shows progress and effort. It also advises parents to do their homework about the school, show genuine interest, and avoid being overly critical or demanding during the interview.
Atom Learning: Private School Parent Interviews: What To Expect
A British site, Atom Learning provides a comprehensive guide on preparing for parent interviews. It suggests that parents should research the school thoroughly, know their child well, and be ready to articulate their child's qualities and achievements. The guide also advises against over-preparing children to the point where their responses sound rehearsed. It stresses the importance of being ready for spontaneous interviews and following up with a thank-you note.
Honolulu Magazine: How to Ace the Interview
This article from Hawaii Magazine offers practical tips for both parents and children preparing for school admissions interviews. It highlights the importance of explaining the interview process to children, practicing with mock interviews, and ensuring children are well-rested and comfortable. It also advises parents to let their children speak for themselves during the interview and to avoid overdressing or appearing too demanding.
To summarize these sources, avoid these common mistakes:
- Over-preparing or scripting responses: Schools prefer authentic answers over-rehearsed ones.
- Bragging about accomplishments: Highlight strengths without appearing boastful.
- Being overly critical or demanding: Maintain a positive and respectful demeanor.
- Not letting the child speak: Allow them to express themselves and showcase their personality.
- Appearing unprepared: Research the school and be ready to discuss why it is a good fit for your child.
As you can see, I have stated my message about the school interview in several ways. You need to prepare for and think about the interview at your child's prospective school just as thoroughly as you did for your first job at that Wall Street firm decades ago. Admissions to this school are just as competitive as your situation was back then. A lot is riding on what you say and do. So, prepare with care and thought. The education and all your child will receive at the school is worth the effort.
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