Key Strategies for the Phillips Exeter Interview: 5 Essential Exeter Interview Tips

After months of diligent work, the application has been submitted. For many prospective Exeter families, this milestone brings a mix of relief and anticipation for the next critical step: the interview. This one-on-one conversation can often feel like the most high-stakes and nerve-wracking part of the entire admissions process.

But it's essential to reframe this narrative. The Phillips Exeter interview is not a test to be passed or a performance to be perfected. It is a conversation—a valuable opportunity for the admissions office to connect with the real person behind the application and for your child to discover if Exeter is truly the right community for them.

This guide moves beyond generic advice to provide five actionable strategies, rooted in an expert understanding of what Exeter values most: authentic intellectual curiosity and genuine character.

The 'Why' Behind the Handshake: Understanding the Goal of the Interview

Before diving into preparation, it's crucial to understand the interviewer's objective. They are not trying to intimidate your child or catch them in a mistake. Their goal is to look beyond the grades and accomplishments on paper to discover the applicant's true nature.

They want to see evidence of:

• Intellectual Curiosity: A genuine love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

• Collaborative Spirit: A personality that would thrive at the Harkness table, where listening is as important as speaking.

• Kindness and Character: A sense of integrity and respect for others.

• Passion and Personality: The unique interests and hobbies that make your child who they are.

The interview is Exeter's way of envisioning your child as a member of their vibrant, residential community.

Tip 1: Showcase Curiosity, Don't Just Claim It

Perhaps the single most effective way for a student to demonstrate their fitness for Exeter is by asking thoughtful, specific questions. This shows they are not just a passive applicant but an engaged and curious thinker who has done their homework.

Encourage your child to research Exeter beyond the homepage. Have them explore a specific academic department, an extracurricular club, a school tradition, or a faculty member's work. This research forms the basis for impressive questions.

• Weak Question: "What sports do you have?" (This information is easily found online.)

• Strong Question: "I saw that the Exeter Economics Society recently hosted a guest speaker from the Federal Reserve. Are opportunities like that common for underclassmen?"

• Weak Question: "Is the food good?"

• Strong Question: "I read about the Harkness method and how it's central to Exeter's philosophy. Could you share how that collaborative spirit extends outside the classroom, perhaps in the dorms or clubs?"

Tip 2: Tell a Story, Not a Resume

The interviewer has already read your child’s application and knows their accomplishments. The interview is the time to add color, depth, and personality to that file. The best way to do this is through storytelling.

Help your child prepare two or three brief, personal anecdotes that illustrate a key character trait. This "show, don't tell" approach is incredibly memorable.

• Instead of saying, "I'm resilient," they could tell a short story about struggling with a concept in math, seeking help from a teacher, and the satisfaction of finally mastering it.

• Instead of saying, "I'm a good leader," they could describe a time they helped mediate a disagreement on a group project.

Tip 3: Master the Classics with Authenticity

While every Exeter interview is unique, certain foundational questions are likely to arise. The goal is not to have a scripted answer but to have reflected on these topics beforehand.

• "Why Exeter?": The answer must be specific. It should connect a unique aspect of Exeter (Harkness, a specific program, the residential life) to the student's own passions and goals.

• "Tell me about a book you've recently enjoyed.": This is not a book report. The interviewer wants to know why the student enjoyed it. What ideas did it spark? Did it change their perspective?

• "What do you do for fun?": This is a gift! It’s a chance to share a genuine passion, whether it's building model rockets, writing poetry, or playing pickup basketball. It makes the applicant real and relatable.

• "Tell me about a challenge you've faced.": The key here is to focus on the outcome—not the challenge itself, but the learning, growth, and maturity gained from the experience.

Tip 4: The Parent's Role—Coach, Not Director

This final Exeter interview tip is for you, the parent. Your role in this process is to be a supportive coach, not a scriptwriter or director. The moment an answer sounds rehearsed or inauthentic, the connection is lost.

• Do: Conduct a few low-pressure mock interviews to help your child get comfortable with the conversational format.

• Don't: Provide them with scripted answers to memorize.

• Do: Help them brainstorm and reflect on their own experiences to find the stories and examples mentioned in Tip 2.

• Don't: Try to shape them into what you think Exeter wants. Exeter wants to meet your child.

The interviewer knows they are speaking to a teenager, not a seasoned executive. They expect some nervousness; what they value above all is a genuine and honest exchange.

Our Best Exeter Interview Tip: The Goal is Connection, Not Perfection

Ultimately, the most successful Exeter interviews are the ones that feel like authentic conversations. By focusing on showcasing curiosity, telling personal stories, and preparing thoughtfully, your child can confidently present their best self. Remember, the interview is also their chance to learn and decide if Exeter is the right place for them. It’s a two-way street.

Preparing for an interview of this caliber can be daunting. The expert consultants at EduAvenues specialize in one-on-one coaching to help students develop the confidence and communication skills to build a genuine connection and excel in their interview. Learn more about our interview preparation services.