What kinds of questions are asked in a University of Chicago alumni interview?

University of Chicago alumni interviews are usually conversational rather than highly structured, and the questions tend to focus on how you think, what genuinely interests you, and why UChicago fits you. You should expect some standard prompts like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why UChicago?” and “What are you interested in studying?”

In practice, the interview often feels less like a checklist and more like a discussion with an engaged adult. A UChicago alumnus might ask what you do for fun, what academic topic you could talk about for hours, what kind of conversations excite you, or how you spend time outside class. They may also ask about a meaningful extracurricular, a challenge you handled, or something you are proud of.

Because it is UChicago, some interviewers may lean a little more quirky or idea-driven than at other schools, but not in a performative way. You might get a question that invites reflection, like what question you wish people asked you, what issue you have changed your mind about, or what community has shaped you most. The point is usually to see how you think and how specifically you talk about your interests, not to catch you off guard.

The best preparation is to be ready with clear, concrete answers about why UChicago appeals to you in particular. It also helps to have examples ready from your classes, reading, activities, or independent projects so your answers sound specific instead of generic.

You should also prepare a few thoughtful questions for the interviewer.