Lehigh University Interview Preparation
Master the interview process with expert tips, sample questions, and proven strategies from Dr. Karan Gupta
Interview Format
Format
Optional alumni interview available by request or invitation through Lehigh's alumni network
Duration
30-45 minutes
Interviewers
Alumni volunteers, often from engineering, business, or applied sciences backgrounds
Interview Style & Expectations
Warm and practical. Lehigh interviewers value hands-on achievers over pure academics. Expect questions about what you've built, led, or solved — not just what you've studied. The vibe is Midsize school, big outcomes.
What Lehigh Looks For
Sample Interview Questions
Academic
Lehigh emphasizes learning by doing — the Integrated Business and Engineering program, design labs, and practicum courses. What hands-on experience are you most proud of?
Tip: Talk about something you built, designed, coded, or led — not just studied. Lehigh students get their hands dirty early.
Fit
Why Lehigh over larger engineering or business programs? What specifically appeals to you about this size and culture?
Tip: Lehigh's class sizes and professor accessibility are genuine differentiators. If you just want 'a good engineering school,' you'll sound generic.
How do you see yourself getting involved in the Lehigh community in South Bethlehem?
Tip: Mention Lehigh-community partnerships, the South Side Initiative, or specific clubs. Lehigh's relationship with Bethlehem is part of the experience.
Character
Tell me about a time you pushed through something difficult — a project, a challenge, a setback.
Tip: Lehigh's academic rigor is real. Show you have the grit to handle it, not just the brains.
Preparation Strategy
Do's - Preparation Tips
- Understand Lehigh's integrated learning model — the ability to combine engineering, business, and arts is a core differentiator.
- Visit the campus or watch virtual tours — Lehigh's Asa Packer Campus on South Mountain is stunning and students genuinely love it.
- If applying to engineering or IBE (Integrated Business and Engineering), know the curriculum specifics.
- Lehigh alumni are exceptionally loyal — your interviewer likely bleeds brown and white. Show you share that potential enthusiasm.
Don'ts - Common Mistakes
- Treating Lehigh as a 'safety school' — interviewers can tell immediately, and it's insulting to alumni who love their school
- Not knowing about the IBE program, the Creative Inquiry initiative, or Lehigh's Mountaintop experience
- Being unable to explain why a mid-size university in Bethlehem, PA appeals to you specifically
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