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I won't be applying until next cycle, but I'm certainly curious about these JR1s (phone interviews from harvard for those not in the know), so I have a few questions for those who had them this cycle

How long did yours last? From looking around, it seems like they usually lasted about 10 minutes. Were there any significantly shorter or longer?

What type of questions were asked? Were they of the personal variety, such as "what have you been doing this semester/how are your classes going" or were they mainly focused on the school ("what can YOU bring to harvard, why are YOU interested in harvard)?

I don't really have much more with which to prompt you guys since I don't know much about it (and thus my asking), so if you guys would like to post a brief description of the types of questions/the mood (i'm sure they try to make it easy-going, but did you feel like you were being orally examined or was it actually very laid-back [...relative to how laid back a phone conversation with HLS can be]?) and anything else you'd like to add, I know that I--as well as I presume others--would really appreciate it.

Thanks.

does anyone have an answer to this? Anyone who had JR1s?

The JR1 can last anywhere from 5-15 minutes and the length varies depending on how much you talk, nothing more. The length also seemingly has no bearing on admissions prospects. There are no trick questions. Below is the text of the interview email:

Dear Crackberry,

Thanks for applying to Harvard Law School!

I just read your file and would like to set up a phone interview with you. Our interviews are relatively informal - you and I will have a short conversation about what you've been working on recently and discuss why law school, and Harvard specifically, is the right choice for you.

I'll plan on giving you a call between XXXX and XXXX EST on XXXX, XX/XX/2009. I'll use the number you listed with your present mailing address on your application. If this number won't work or if the time is completely unworkable for you, please reply to this e-mail and we'll reach out to coordinate.

I look forward to speaking with you!

Best,

Josh


Josh Rubenstein
Assistant Dean for Admissions
Harvard Law School