7 Tips to Help Your Child Prepare for Secondary School Interviews

You’ve chosen the schools where your child will apply, and the applications are in. Now comes the interview—a step that can feel exciting, nerve-wracking, or a little of both for students and parents alike. At this stage, it’s natural to wonder how best to support your child without adding pressure.

To help families navigate this moment, our Director of Secondary School Counseling, Christine Williams, shares seven practical tips for parents on how to help students prepare for the secondary school interview—so they can walk in feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to be themselves.

Setting Students Up for a Successful Interview

These guiding principles can help parents prepare their child for the interview while keeping stress—and pressure—to a minimum.

1. Remember the purpose of the interview

Which is, to get to know the student beyond the data of the application! Remind your child that they are much more than grades and test scores. The point of the interview is for their spirit to shine through, so they should relax and be themselves.

2. Encourage your child to tell their story

Schools love excellent students who do cool things outside the classroom. Use the interview to share the cool things you do.  Be ready to share why you love what you do. Paint a memorable picture with stories.

3. Understand the interview format

Expect a conversation instead of a 30-minute Q & A. Aim for depth in your answers, and avoid one word responses. Think of these transition words as your friends:  "because; and; then; also; one time..."

4. Do your homework on the school

Research the school's website and social media channels to find out what differentiates it from other schools and to get a flavor for the school's culture and values.

5. Ask questions!

Prepare questions according to your interests that your research couldn't answer. Relax. Feel confident and comfortable with who you are and what you will contribute to the school's community. Tell your story and ask your questions.

Preparing for the Parent Interview

We would be remiss if we didn't offer advice for the equally important parent interview! Remember your subject: Focus on your child as only you as the parent can; share the heart of who your child is, what you see at home that is best articulated by the love of a parent.