You’ve submitted your applications — congratulations! Now comes the next step in the admissions process: interviews and personal essays. Both are key opportunities for your child to showcase who they are beyond their grades and test scores. While the interview is a conversation and the essay is written, they share a common goal — to tell an authentic story that highlights your child’s curiosity, values, and voice.

Whether your child is polishing their essays or preparing to meet with an interviewer, the same principles of strong communication apply. Here are some tips and reminders on how to help them express themselves clearly, thoughtfully, and with confidence.

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ANSWER THE QUESTION - THOUGHTFULLY.

Every good essay (and interview answer) starts with a true understanding of the prompt or question. Encourage your child to pause before jumping in — to reflect on what’s being asked and what they genuinely want to say.

• Gather your thoughts: You can help your child prepare by brainstorming key experiences, challenges, or moments that have shaped them.
• Write or speak naturally: Remind them that authenticity matters most. An honest answer always shines brighter than a rehearsed one.

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STRUCTURE MATTERS - TELL A COHESIVE STORY

Just as essays have an introduction, body, and conclusion, strong interview answers also have a beginning, middle, and end - an arc. Remind your child about the following:

• Introduction: Start with a clear idea or story that directly answers the question.
  
• Body: Expand with details, examples, and personal insight.
  
• Conclusion: End with reflection — what did you learn, and how has it shaped who you are?

Practicing this flow helps students organize their thoughts, whether they're writing or speaking on the spot.

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BE SPECIFIC - DETAILS MAKE YOU MEMORABLE

Admissions officers and interviewers read and hear countless stories. What makes an interview or essay stand out is specificity.

• Embrace details: Encourage your child to describe moments vividly — the scene, the emotion, the takeaway - using specific language.
  
• Avoid generalizations: “I love helping people” is fine, but “I love mentoring younger students because they are so grateful, and it reminds me of how much I’ve grown” is far stronger.
  

The more personal and concrete the story, the more genuine and memorable the impression.

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CREATE THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT FOR SELF-REFLECTION

Writing and interview prep both require space for thought. Set aside a quiet, comfortable area for your child to reflect, write, and even practice mock interviews. The goal isn’t to script answers, but to become more comfortable articulating who they are by answering a variety of questions.

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GET SUPPORT IF NEEDED

If your child needs help developing their essays or building interview confidence, SCK offers expert guidance. Our team of educators and writing specialists can help students refine their voice, strengthen their narratives, and prepare to shine — on paper and in person.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

Strong essays and interviews share the same heart: self-awareness and authenticity. Encourage your child to see each as a chance to tell their story — and show curiosity, character, and growth. With preparation, they’ll not only impress admissions teams, but also gain a deeper understanding of themselves along the way.