The Hillsdale College Interview
Written by Grace Canlas
The following word has a reputation for undoubtedly causing panic, nerves, and fear among mankind, uniting humanity in its common dread — interviews. I would be the first to tell you that interviews are one of the worst parts of life, competing with taxes and mosquitos, that is until last year when my entire perspective changed as a result of having none other than my Hillsdale College interview. I can confidently say that my admissions interview was one of the most enjoyable and meaningful experiences of my life.
Now you may scoff and conclude that I am simply a peculiar individual who clearly needs to get out more, but the reason for this is not a testament of greatness to myself, but rather Hillsdale College. While an interview is not required for admission to Hillsdale, it is highly recommended for the benefit of both the College and yourself. An interview is your opportunity to distinguish yourself personally from thousands of other elite applicants competing for a spot in the upcoming class. The admissions interview enables Hillsdale College to learn more about who you are as a person that may not be fully conveyed in your essays, and simultaneously allows you to learn more about what Hillsdale College is as a partnership that may not be fully understood from your research.
The two elements that make the Hillsdale College student admissions interview so unique are the Admissions Counselors and topics of discussion. Admissions Counselors at Hillsdale are individuals who model the College itself, in both their values and conduct. Stepping into the Admissions Office for one’s interview is intimidating, but the people who greet you are some of the most welcoming you will ever have the great fortune of meeting. The butterflies in your stomach are calmed simply by the warm smiles and handshakes. However, Admissions Counselors also uphold a professional and intellectual conduct that is immediately admiring. My Admissions Counselor is the primary reason my interview was so inspirational and impactful. He helped my love for Hillsdale College grow by providing me with a vision of the type of person I hope to one day become as a result of a Hillsdale education.
The second component that makes the Hillsdale College interview so distinct and memorable are the topics of discussion. Questions in interviews are often pretty standard — Why should we hire you? What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses? — but not at Hillsdale. You will probably be asked to express your thoughts on the value of liberal arts education or the nature of absolute truth. During my interview, a majority of our time was spent discussing Aristotle and To Kill a Mockingbird. The College learned a lot about me from my interview, as is the goal, but I too learned a lot about myself that day. My Hillsdale interview was a tiny glimpse for me as to what college actually is — a partnership. My Admissions Counselor came alongside me and challenged me to think deeply, examining who I was and who I wanted to be. I was so captivated by our discussion that when it was over, I was actually disappointed and wanted to ask if I could stay for a couple more minutes.
Hillsdale College impacted me before I was even accepted as a student here. It is the people that make this place so special and embody its spirit. No matter what, even in an interview, Hillsdale College will challenge you to pursue the good, the true, and the beautiful in life.
Grace Canlas, ’27, is a prospective English major and military history and grand strategy minor. When not studying in the library, she can be found practicing martial arts or laughing with her family and friends.
Published in September 2023