Once you can put your finger on intelligent and convincing reasons why you want to attend a school, not only will those interview questions suddenly become a breeze but so will the essay and the entire application. The important thing is to be prepared for the "easy ones" so that you don't have to stammer and clear your throat when the admissions officer asks them. This will also give you more leeway if the interviewer throws you a real zinger that you weren't prepared to answer.

Another important part of acing your interview is showing the interviewer your natural charm and confidence. Conviviality, poise, and aplomb are three qualities that have little to do with how good a student you are but a lot to do with how your interview goes. You want to seem bright, interested, mature, and at ease. The more comfortable your interviewer feels at your interview, the better the impression you'll make.