It is difficult to provide general advice on questions you should pose because the best questions will reflect your individual knowledge of the program and your background and goals, but let me give you some guidance or at least a place to start.

First prepare yourself to ask intelligent questions:

1. Review the school's web site and literature thoroughly. You don't want to ask a question that's answered on p. 2.
2. Review your application.

As you conduct your review, jot down questions that come to mind. The questions about those programs, clubs, and activities that are most relevant to your goals, educational preferences, and life style are the creme de la creme. Those questions are going to be very individual and I can't give you samples, but here are a few more general questions that may trigger queries in your mind:

• Is it difficult to register for popular classes such as yadda yadda? (Give examples of the classes you are most interested in.)
• What are the criteria for participation in a business plan competition? (if you are interested in entrepreneurship. Substitute another program if entrepreneurship is not your goal.)
• How are interviews given out for internships and full-time positions? (The latter can be a critical question if you are a career changer. Do students bid for a portion of interview slots or is it entirely recruiters' choice?)

If your interviewer is a second-year student or recent alum, ask about his or her experience at School X. For example:

• What were your favorite classes? Professors?
• Any activity that is simply not to be missed?
• What do you wish you had done differently before or while at School X.

Some people also asked me what to ask if interviewed by an alum. Here is my advice:

The alum will still love to be asked his or her opinion. You can certainly ask about the alum's career path if it is related to what you want to do and what s/he found beneficial or a waste. What is the alum looking for today when hiring MBA's? What does he or she think about changes in the MBA curriculum. Also feel the alum out about their knowledge of today's program. Some alumni do stay more involved. You can still ask about a favorite professor, who may or may not be there.