Princeton Interview

I graduated from Princeton and do interviews - here are some suggestions:

Have a few interesting or distinguishing things about yourself to talk about that aren’t already showcased in your application. We don’t care about your grades or your test scores or your achievements. Princeton uses alumni interviews to try to get a true, human perspective on the applicants. Focus on the things you really care about, not what you think someone wants to hear.

I ask applicants about what they do with their friends, what books they’ve read, whether they get along with their siblings … anything to really help get a picture of how the applicant would fit into college life. For example if you are an artist or musician, for example, you could bring it to share.

Additionally, be prepared to talk about why you are specifically interested in Princeton. Only maybe 1 out of 5 applicants I speak with has an answer that truly shows an understanding about the university. Try to think of the work of a specific professor or a class you find really interesting. Or think of something that distinguishes the school from other top tier colleges - just make clear you find it a unique opportunity compared to other ivies.

We also would like to help answer any questions you may have. We volunteer to interview because we enjoyed our experience at Princeton. You may ask why we chose Princeton or what we liked about our experience in undergrad. Do not be afraid to ask your interviewer to address what you might worry are some of the downsides of an undergraduate experience at Princeton compared to other school. I always think that shows a deeper understanding of the school