Being part of Rice's vibrant and supportive community, full of inspiring classmates, is one of my favorite things about the school — and it’s exactly why I became an Owl Interviewer.

Firstly, I know that college admissions interviews can be nerve wracking, but please be assured that your alumni and Rice senior interviewers aren’t here to ask any trick questions! During these interviews, I’m hoping to get to know applicants beyond their paper application and try to calm their nerves a bit about the college application process. As someone who went through this process four years ago and is now knee deep in the medical school application cycle, I know all too well the anxiety and nerves that come with admissions interviews. 

At the very least, know that you have a friend on the other side of the screen who is hoping to have a real and genuine conversation with you. You’ve already done the hard part – taking classes, studying for college admissions exams, drafting your personal statement – now is the fun part, where you get to see which environment you fit in the most.

On that note, these interviews are also an opportunity for you to see if you would truly be a good fit for the school. You’re interviewing us as much as we are interviewing you! A tip is to come prepared with questions for the interviewer. I really recommend researching potential majors, classes, clubs, and other opportunities offered at Rice and coming up with specific questions. More likely than not, your interviewer will be able to answer them or direct you to someone who can. 

These questions are super important! We want to make sure that Rice will be an environment that fits your academic and personal interests and goals. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the school: I actually first learned about ktru, our on-campus radio station, from my Rice interviewer. When I first heard about it, I was shocked: what kind of college just casually has a broadcasting radio station on campus? Over the past few years, having a weekly radio show at ktru has been one of my favorite things that I’ve done in college, and I’m really grateful that I had the opportunity to learn about it before even stepping foot on campus. 

My final tip is to have a one on one with yourself. It may have been some time since you submitted your application and supplemental essays, and so I would really recommend rereading them right before your interview just so you have them fresh in your mind. When you go over your application, think about the why of certain classes or activities that you pursued. Don’t forget hobbies too! I’m excited to hear about what you’re passionate about, whether that be chemistry or football or knitting or photography. 

Interviews are really about sharing what excites you most and letting your genuine self shine through. At the end of the day, remember that this is a conversation between two people who love learning and connection — I can’t wait to meet you and hear about what makes you, you.

-Cheryl, Baker ‘26 (Published on 11/11/2025)