Don't Force It: How to Get into College without Losing Yourself in the Process Alison Slater on College Interviews
In today’s episode, I sit down with Alison Slater to explore the evolving role of college interviews. Alison shares practical advice for students on how to prepare—from researching schools to refining key talking points—and explains why strong interview skills are becoming even more critical as AI reshapes the admissions process. Whether you're a student or a parent, this is a must-listen conversation about how to stand out in a rapidly changing landscape.
Bio
Alison attended college far enough from home that her family wouldn’t visit without calling first, but close enough to pop home for a weekend, if she wanted to. She believes in the liberal arts and chose a major she loved, not knowing where it would take her after college.
She worked in selective college admissions for fifteen years and consulted one-on-one with students writing college essays and preparing for admissions interviews. She loves working with teenagers. Interviews are her favorite part of the college application because you can learn so much about someone in an interview, but they can also be a missed opportunity when students arrive nervous or unprepared.
Everyone interviews eventually—whether for college or grad school, scholarships, internships, or jobs. Through mock interviews and guided self-reflection, at Interview Prep, Alison helps students learn how to prepare in advance, interview with confidence, and leave a lasting impression each time. A memorable interview is a game-changer in standing out from the crowd, and interviewers can become advocates when selecting candidates for admission, awards, or jobs.
Outside of work, Alison loves crosswords, board games, novels, trying new recipes, and the Oxford comma.
Visit InterviewPrepLLC.com to learn more about their expert coaching for interviews, communication, and professional presence.
Use code SIGNET2025 at checkout to receive 10% off all services booked by July 1, 2025.
Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.