Unlock the Secrets: A Former Harvard Admissions Interviewer’s Revealing Questions

As the saying goes, “The path to Harvard is paved with more than just good grades.” With an acceptance rate hovering around a mere 5%, gaining admission to this prestigious Ivy League institution is a feat that requires more than just academic excellence. It’s a journey that demands a deep understanding of who you are, what drives you, and how you can contribute to the dynamic tapestry of Harvard’s student body.

In this article, we’ll delve into the insights of Jillian Bayor, a former Harvard admissions interviewer who conducted interviews for the classes of 1998, 1999, and 2000. Bayor, who later founded her own college admissions firm, Ivy League Essay, and a business school admissions firm, MBA Ivy League, has shared the five questions she almost always asked applicants during their interviews.

Question 1: “What are you interested in potentially studying in college?”

While this question may seem straightforward, Bayor used it as an icebreaker and a gauge of the applicant’s focus and intellectual curiosity. For her, a confident and driven student would have a clear target or area of study in mind, even if that eventually changed. On the other hand, vague or wishy-washy answers could signal a lack of direction or purpose.

Bayor would then delve deeper into the reasons behind the applicant’s interest, seeking to uncover their level of intellectual curiosity – a crucial trait for success at a school like Harvard.

Question 2: “What’s the most negative experience you ever had in school?”

This question was designed to elicit an authentic, honest response from the applicant, forcing them to confront a challenging situation they had faced. Bayor wasn’t necessarily looking for a specific type of negative experience; rather, she was interested in how the applicant handled adversity and bounced back from it.

A positive, optimistic attitude and resilience in the face of setbacks were traits Bayor valued highly, as they are essential for navigating the rigors and challenges of a competitive environment like Harvard.

Question 3: “What do you do when you’re not in school?”

Through this question, Bayor sought to categorize applicants as either “pin-point focused” or “well-rounded.” The former group would have dedicated themselves entirely to one extracurricular activity, often at a competitive level, while the latter would have participated in a diverse range of activities, such as sports, music, or cultural events.

Bayor emphasized that neither category was inherently better; instead, she looked for uniqueness and what made the applicant stand out from their peers.

Question 4: “What have you read recently?”

Reading is often a window into an individual’s intellectual depth and engagement with the world around them. By asking this question, Bayor aimed to gauge the applicant’s level of intellectual curiosity and their ability to converse on a wide range of topics at an adult level.

Responses limited to graphic novels or humorous blogs would raise red flags, as Bayor sought students who could demonstrate a serious mindset and an awareness of current events and issues through reputable news sources.

Question 5: “What’s the last cultural event you went to?” or “What have you done or seen lately?”

This question allowed Bayor to assess the applicant’s exposure to and awareness of cultural diversity. She was open to a wide range of responses, from folk art festivals to opera performances, as long as they reflected the applicant’s engagement with their surroundings and a willingness to explore new experiences.

Bayor emphasized that the specific event or activity was less important than the applicant’s ability to articulate their experience and demonstrate a curiosity about the world beyond their immediate environment.

Throughout the interview process, Bayor sought to uncover the unique qualities and potential that each applicant could bring to the Harvard community. Her questions were carefully crafted to gauge not only academic prowess but also intellectual curiosity, resilience, cultural awareness, and the ability to engage in substantive conversations.

As you embark on your own journey towards college admissions, remember that the path to success is paved with authenticity, self-awareness, and a genuine passion for learning and personal growth. By embracing these qualities and approaching the process with honesty and self-reflection, you too can unlock the doors to a transformative educational experience.