The Roles of Alumni Interviewers at Their Alma Mater
I have had the privilege of sharing my knowledge and experience as an alumni interviewer for my university's Alumni Interview Program. This article aims to provide insight into the typical pathways and responsibilities of alumni who become interviewers at their alma mater.
Entry into the Program
The process for becoming an alumni interviewer can vary slightly depending on the institution, but generally, it involves a combination of online sign-up and attendance at a training session. For universities like Stanford, the Alumni Interview Program is an excellent way to volunteer your expertise. Once you have signed up, you are guided through a comprehensive training session during which you learn about the expectations, the interview process, and the types of questions you might ask. This training ensures that all interviewers are consistent in their approach and can provide valuable insights to the interviewees.
Initiation into the Local Alumni Chapter
Another common pathway to becoming an alumni interviewer is through joining your local alumni chapter. Once you become an active member of the chapter, you may be contacted by the chapter officers to volunteer as an interviewer. This process can be informal, as alumni chapters often have a need for interviewers and may reach out to alumni with appropriate experience and expertise, regardless of when they graduated.
Experience and Expertise Requirements
Becoming an alumni interviewer is not a one-size-fits-all process. It typically requires a certain level of industry expertise and professional experience. Most universities look for alumni who have achieved a certain amount of success or have significant experience in their fields. This is usually after 3 to 5 years following graduation, as this period often coincides with the accomplishment of early career milestones. However, the specific timeline may vary based on the industry and the demands of the role.
Responsibilities and Expectations
Once you become an alumni interviewer, you are expected to engage in meaningful conversations with prospective students or current students who are interviewing. These interviews are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the individual and their academic and professional goals. As an interviewer, you are expected to evaluate the candidate's fit with the university culture and academic programs, as well as their motivation and readiness for college life. The insights you provide are invaluable to the admissions committee and can often influence the final decision.
Conclusion
Becoming an alumni interviewer is a rewarding experience that allows you to give back to your alma mater and guide the next generation of students. Whether through the online sign-up process or the more informal channel of joining a local alumni chapter, the pathway to becoming an interview is open to alumni who can contribute their valuable expertise and experience.