The Interview

 As I stated in my previous post “An Overview of the Admissions Process”, teachers, principals, guidance counselors, and even fellow Bridge’s students nominate students to become part of the program. To narrow down the applicants an interview is held on Furman University’s campus.  When I interviewed students who are now in there senior and sophomore years, they all recalled an incident with a paperclip. When seated down at the interview the Bridge’s folks understand that the students are nervous and are often lacking confidence in themselves, thus a paperclip is placed in front of them. Everyone said it was the perfect thing to do with their hands, and that it made them feel a little more at ease.

The interview usually begins with some basic questions that Tobi Swartz shared with me. Some examples of typical questions include “Is there someone in your life you view as a role model?” “What are your after high school plans?” and “Why do you want to be in the Bridges to a Brighter Future Program?”. The student’s I interviewed said that in the interview they felt they started on a basic level, but were kindly pushed to share deeper information about themselves, their families, and their lives. The interviewers are looking for some traits in the students such as a significant need such as low self –esteem or unrealized potential. The also look for students with unique personalities and that are looking for more in their life. I can’t wait to sit in on some of the interviews and share more personal stories when they occur in late February!