As director of a Summer or Winter Session study abroad program, you have the opportunity to interview each of your program's applicants to determine if students understand the nature of the program and to assess their suitability for study abroad. Areas of concern that should be addressed during the approximately 15- to 20-minute interview include the following:
The student's ability to adapt and cope in a different culture and his/her desire to learn about that culture.
The student's attitude towards being a guest in the home of a host family (if applicable to program).
The student's understanding of the academic nature of the program. Students are expected to take their classes seriously and attend class regularly.
Any disciplinary/behavioral issues which the student may have disclosed on his/her application. Don't be afraid to probe into the nature of the violation and to inform the student that the Office of Judicial Affairs office will be consulted about his/her case before you decide on acceptance.
Any special needs which should be considered (i.e. dietary restrictions - vegetarians, allergies - smoking, physical limitations, medical conditions etc.).
Note which students are applying for a scholarship. Some students may indicate on their application that they intend to apply for a scholarship, but in the end they do not submit the required materials. Do not consider those who have not submitted an essay or for whom only one recommendation has been submitted. Remember that scholarships are based on academic merit, not financial need.
Make notes on each applicant. These notes can be particularly important in making and supporting acceptance (or rejection), and scholarship decisions,
Some potential interview questions:
How will you profit both academically and personally from this study abroad experience?
How will this experience fit into your overall educational plan?
What will you want your host(s) to learn about you? About the United States?
In what way(s) would you have a positive influence on your group?
How willing are you to speak the target language (if applicable)?
What do you perceive your responsibilities to be as a member of your study abroad group?
Have you ever been lost? How did you deal with your circumstances?
Have you had any direct contact with other cultures? In what way?
How did you get interested in this program? What appealed to you most about the program when you first heard about it?
How do you envision a typical day during the program?
What differences do you expect to find between your home and your housing abroad? What would you do if you wanted to take a shower but there was only cold water? What would you do if you could not identify the food at the dinner table one evening?
You have paid a fee to be housed in a home (hotel, dormitory). What rights and obligations do you have?
Do you understand the University policies on alcohol assumption abroad? Do you understand that over-consumption of alcohol is a reason to terminate you from the program (send you home)?
