I applied in-person. I interviewed at InGenius Prep (New Haven, CT) in May 2012
Interview
I couldn't even get this interview without a thorough vetting of my grades and CV. They wanted as much information as possible. During the interview, it was polite but intense. They asked me for an academic writing sample, an admissions writing sample, and gave me a test (a poorly written college essay) and asked me for feedback and suggested edits. Their level of comprehension was truly impressive and I was a bit intimidated at first. They were very nice and assured me that if I received an offer that I would still go through several day training process in which all these procedures and the company's philosophy about every component of the application would be drilled into me. However, they wanted to make sure I had the innate ability to counsel students first. They aren't just about taking the cream of the crop here, they want to make sure you can back up your credentials with work product
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What was unique about your admissions process either in college or professional school that will enable you to help students achieve what you have?
Asked me about my previous experience working with an admissions advising company in Beijing. Ultimately they wanted someone who could work in one of their satellite offices and I made it pretty clear I wasn't willing to relocate.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What is your previous experience in the field? Why do you want to work here? Would you be willing to stay in China? (Pretty standard interview questions)
I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at InGenius Prep (New York, NY)
Interview
1 initial Skype interview with HR, 2nd interview with education team, sample tasks to complete.
The interview process happened quickly. The questions themselves weren’t difficult to answer, but I did feel rushed. The interviewer appeared to be on her couch in pajamas and it was clear she hadn’t read my materials. She seemed surprised when I mentioned my admissions experience, despite this being an entire subheading of my cover letter. She also made a comment about me being an “older” candidate (I’m 30!) which I found unprofessional if not illegal.
They were very interested in which big name institutions I was affiliated with, particularly in the initial interview. This did not leave me with a favorable impression, especially as compared to the very positive and engaging conversations focusing on coaching and student development I had interviewing with one of their competitors.
On the positive side, they did follow up with me in a timely manner to let me know I did not receive an offer. I appreciate them closing the loop, as many employers do not bother to contact unsuccessful applicants.
Overall I expect a bit more professionalism in the interview process, but perhaps it’s because I’m an old fogey :)
