Stanford vs. Northwestern Alumni Interview: How Should I Prepare Differently?

For Stanford, prepare to discuss the experiences, intellectual interests, and community contributions that already appear in your application, but in a natural, conversational way. For Northwestern, put more emphasis on using the time to understand the student experience and to explain what you are looking for in a college.

Stanford interviews are optional and availability depends on alumni capacity, so not receiving one is not held against an applicant. Thoughtful questions about particular programs, student culture, or how the interviewer used Stanford’s opportunities are useful, but do not turn the meeting into a scripted sales pitch.

Treat it as a two-way conversation, not a test. Review why Northwestern’s combination of schools, interdisciplinary options, quarter system, Evanston location, and campus culture appeal to you, then ask questions that an alumnus can answer from firsthand experience. Avoid asking for information easily found on the website.

For both meetings, have a concise introduction, two or three specific stories that reveal your interests or character, and several genuine questions.