What should I expect in a UConn alumni interview and how should I prepare?

It is usually meant to add a personal dimension to your application, give the school a better sense of your communication style, interests, and fit, and give you a chance to learn more about UConn from someone connected to the university. In practice, that means you should prepare seriously, but not treat it like a high-pressure test.

The interviewer is usually trying to answer simple questions: Can you talk clearly about yourself? Do your interests and goals make sense? Do you seem genuinely engaged, thoughtful, and ready for college? They are generally not looking for perfect answers or obscure knowledge about UConn. They are more likely to notice whether you sound self-aware, curious, and sincere.

A typical conversation may include questions like why you’re interested in UConn, what you hope to study, what you do outside class, what academic experience has mattered most to you, and what you’re looking for in a college community. You may also get broad behavioral questions such as telling about a challenge, a leadership experience, or something you are proud of. Keep your answers specific. A concrete example from a class, club, job, family responsibility, or project will sound stronger than a polished but generic speech.

The best preparation is to know your own application well and review why UConn appeals to you specifically. Be ready to talk about academic programs, research, student life, or opportunities that connect to your interests, whether that is Honors, undergraduate research, Division I school spirit, community engagement, or a particular major. You do not need to memorize lines. It is better to have a few themes in mind and practice answering out loud so you sound natural.

Also prepare 2 or 3 real questions to ask the alum. Good questions are about their experience at UConn, how students build community, or what they found most valuable there. Dress neatly, show up on time, maintain good eye contact if it is on video, and send a brief thank-you message afterward.