What to Wear for Your
College Interview

college planning articles and tips

 

High school students seeking admittance into a college may be required to sit for an interview. College interviews can carry significant weight and may prove the deciding factor for admissions representatives, therefore students should wisely choose their wardrobe and consider how they comport themselves while being interviewed. A college interview is your time to make a positive impression and the following tips can help tip the interview to your favor.

1. Dress the Part.

If you would like to make the best impression possible, then dress for a college interview as if you're going on a job interview. Both men and women can wear suits, with women wearing a blouse that doesn't reveal too much and men choosing a dress shirt with the appropriate tie.

Hair should be styled and trimmed, young men should be clean shaven and women can wear makeup, but not too much. Avoid putting on cologne or perfume as your interviewer may be allergic to it. Shoes should be polished or brushed and go light on the jewelry. If you have tattoos, you will want to cover these up. A brief case or portfolio is a smart accessory that can add to your professional look.

2. Consider Casually Nice.

Not all prospective college students can afford a business wardrobe, at least not now. Choosing casual clothes that convey professionalism and care are important, but that means not wearing shorts or jeans. A pair of slacks with a blouse or polo shirt are appropriate. Avoid sneakers, wear shoes.

You still need to be properly coiffed and men should be clean shaven. Cover your tattoos and remove other body piercings for your interview. Blouses should not be too tight or too revealing. Women can bring a purse to the interview.

3. Turn Off All Electronic Devices.

Turn off or mute electronic devices and absolutely do not use your cell phone during an interview or answer it. Ear buds and other electronic devices should be put away for the duration of the interview. Demonstrate professionalism by showing that you are not tethered to your smart phone or iPod.

4. Arrive On Time.

You look and smell great, and you took the time to prepare for your interview. All this can come to naught if you arrive late. Plan to be at your assigned location about 15 minutes early, allowing for traffic problems and parking difficulties or other hiccups. If you are visiting with your parents, ask to be dropped off and allow your mother or father to park the car. Your parents can catch up with you later.

Making an Impression

When you arrive at your location, tell the receptionist that you have an appointment. You might say, "My name is Melissa Smith and I have an 11 a.m. appointment with Dean Jones." The receptionist will confirm your appointment and direct you to a seat.

When your interviewer approaches you, stand up and put out your hand. Maintain eye contact and follow this person to your room. Be seated when instructed to do so. Your interviewer will want to learn more about you including your schooling, your interests, your personal life and your activities. Plan to give brief, but complete answers and avoid long, drawn-out responses. If you do not understand the question, ask for clarification.

Interview Considerations

A college interview is not a job interview. However, by treating it with the same level of expectancy, you can present yourself professionally. You may not need to dress up again for another four years, but these kinds of interviews can help you prepare for college, giving you a taste for what a job interview will give you later on.

References

The New York Times: Advice for the College Interview: Girls, Dress Discreetly; Boys, Mind Those Hands -- http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/10/25/october-interview/

Boston College: Dress to Impress -- http://www.bc.edu/offices/careers/skills/interview/dress.htm

Author Information

James Scaggs is the Director of Marketing for ecommerce retail sites Ties.com and Scarves.com, based in Orange County California.The tie racks display a wide variety of bow ties and skinny ties.

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