Our Round 2 application deadline is quickly approaching, and based on the volume of inquiries we’ve been receiving we know there are lots of candidates planning to put the final touches on applications over the holidays and submit for the January 7th deadline. We look forward to reviewing these in the New Year!
The component of the process that we get the most questions about is our new video essay, so I wanted to share some tips to alleviate any uncertainty that might exist about this process.
First, you can preview the entire process from a candidate’s perspective by visiting the website of our video essay vendor, Kira Talent. Check out the “For Candidates” video for a step-by-step guide to the video essay.
Remember that this is a pilot project in our admissions process this year. We are having fun with the tool and learning from the experience and we hope candidates will do the same!
The way the video essay works is as follows:
Sample Question
Before the official ‘live’ essay process starts you have an opportunity to answer a sample question which will not be recorded in order to get familiar with the technology and comfortable seeing yourself on camera. Most of our candidates already use Skype / Facetime in their personal lives so this webcam experience feels very similar.
Official Video Essay
Once you choose to move on from the practice session you enter the official section of the video essays. Candidates will be asked two questions, delivered via video. Both questions are designed to be answered without any advance preparation and will allow us to get to know you, your personality, interests, passions, and talents much better than we could in a written essay.
Candidates will have 45 seconds to prepare, and 90 seconds to answer each question, with the time available displayed on the screen. Be yourself and have fun with this process!
Here are my top 5 pieces of advice for the video essay:
1. Take advantage of the practice questions!
These are a great opportunity get comfortable and ensure there are no technical suprises when you begin the ‘live’ process!
2. This is still an interview, so dress accordingly
Despite the virtual format, this is still an interview so it does represent an opportunity to send a signal to the Admissions Committee about your approach to the Admissions process. Dressing appropriately will help ensure you present a professional presence.
3. Try to look at the camera, not the screen when possible.
If you can think of the camera as your audience and deliver a conversation to the camera it certainly helps the “feel” of the video experience from a reviewer’s perspective.
4. Calm your nerves
Remember that this is meant to help showcase what makes you tick. There are no “right” answers and the Admissions Committee really just wants to understand more about you as an individual. Let your personality and passions shine through!
5. Think about your timing
This format is purposely short as we are interested in testing concise communication skills (recognizing that the written essay and interview both provide opportunities to elaborate on anything you may be highlighting in the video essay). Use the timer on the screen to ensure you stay on track.
On Thursday, December 20th we will be running an Online Admissions Workshop to provide advice and tips on submitting the strongest possible profile in your application. Registation and additional event details here.
One additional note:
The University will be closed from December 24th – January 7th for the holiday break. We anticipate a large volume of applications on the 7th, so I would recommend submitting a few days early to avoid the rush and any possible technical delay on the system.
If for some reason you have trouble submitting your application, rest assured that our team has blocked off January 7th, our first day back after the holidays, to respond to urgent inquiries. Applications received after the deadline due to technical issues will NOT be considered late!
Happy Holidays!
Niki