An interview is your chance to further humanize your law school application and distinguish yourself from your peers. Interview formats vary considerably among law schools where they are offered — and not all do — so applicants will need to adjust their interview preparation accordingly.
1. In-person interview: In-person interviews like those offered by the law schools at Northwestern, Vanderbilt and George Washington universities are the most traditional — but not necessarily the most common — format. Interviews can take place on campus or by region.
Do identify fresh examples of specific accomplishments, elaborate on topics you may have referenced in your application, and share any recent updates.
Don’t simply regurgitate the content of your application essays and resume. Admissions committees already have this information. What can you add to their understanding of you?
Do connect your personal accomplishments and goals to the school’s offerings. Research courses, clinics, clubs, journals, etc, that genuinely excite you about attending.
Don’t resort to “scripted” or overly rehearsed responses. Remember than an interview is a conversation. Take cues from your interviewer and ask questions.
Learn about [the five deciding factors in law school admissions.]
2. Group interview: Perhaps the most well-known group interview is conducted by Georgetown University Law Center. In a group interview, you will interact not only with the interviewer, but also other prospective law students.
Conversations might include comparing the merits of different hypothetical law school applications or discussing sample case law. Because the materials for discussion are typically not disclosed ahead of time, your preparation should focus on decorum.
Do voice your views in a manner that is both confident and respectful of dissenting options. You will be evaluated on how you interact with your peers, as much as on the content of your message.
Don’t launch into monologue. Be succinct and give others the chance to speak.
Do acknowledge your peers. Show that you know how to listen and assess what others contribute to the conversation.
Don’t forget to introduce yourself and thank the interviewer for leading the discussion.
3. Telephone interview: The telephone is a standard alternative to an in-person interview. Preparation for these interviews is similar to the do’s and don’ts discussed above but keep a few additional considerations in mind.
Do conduct the call from a place with reliable service. Opt for a landline if available.
Don’t be lax about appearance. At Stratus Prep, I recommend that my clients dress how they would for an in-person interview to instill a sense of professionalism into their voice.
Do smile. Facial expressions can subtly impact vocal tone.
Don’t hang up until you have said a proper goodbye. Wait until the interviewer has officially ended the call to avoid an abrupt ending.
4. Live videoconference interview: Videoconferences have become increasingly popular alternatives to in-person and telephone interviews at law schools like Harvard University, Columbia University and the University of Chicago. The preparation for videoconferences mirrors the do’s and don’ts already discussed, along with these additional pointers.
Do ensure that your Internet connection is reliable. Connect directly to a router, if possible, and shut down unnecessary programs that might slow down your Internet speed.
Don’t forget to control your environment. Let roommates, family and pets know you need privacy. You may love your cat, but don’t let him wander into frame. Consider what’s visible in the background.
Do establish an appropriate introduction. Although you won’t have the opportunity to shake hands, you can still start strong by greeting your interviewer and thanking him or her for meeting with you.
And please: Don’t stare at your own image in the video preview window box. At Stratus Prep I work with aspiring lawyers from all over the world and frequently meet clients through videoconference. You’d be surprised how conspicuous it is when an applicant’s focus shifts to his or her preview window. Instead, maintain eye contact with your interviewer.
See [three common reasons law school applications get rejected.]
5. Prerecorded video interview: Rather than speaking with a live person, you will record your response to a set of predetermined questions. Admissions committees that use this format include Northwestern and St. John’s University. In addition to the tips for in-person interviews and live videoconference interviews consider these additional recommendations.
Do aim to connect with your viewers. Although you won’t be formally meeting with an interviewer, aim for a professional, but conversational tone.
Don’t rehearse too much. Typically you will have the option to practice before hitting “record,” but remember this is your chance to humanize yourself. Avoid robotic answers.
Do respond to each particular question asked. Refine your answers to cover different components of your application, while maintaining a sense of coherency in your message.
Don’t extensively elaborate on responses your gave to a prior question. Avoid repetition.
Do you have an interview coming up? Mock interviews are a very effective way to prepare. Let me know an email or tweet me.
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Navigate 5 Types of Law School Admissions Interviews originally appeared on usnews.com
