Just adding my 2 cents on interview experience...
I interviewed with Linda Baldwin about a month ago and must say overall experience was very pleasant.
Definately very very conversational. In fact, she did a big portion of the speaking.
The only questions asked were:
Why UCLA
what would your collegaues say in regards to your interpersonal style
what interpersonal skill is a weakness
anything else youd like to tell me (follwed by what do you do outside of work)
I have a background in running a family business involving textiles/manufacturing in China. I mentioned entrepreneuship/ globalization as the major draw of UCLA and seemed to hit it on the spot with this topic. We delved into how globalization is really changing the way business is done nowadays, and how it is really just in its beginning stages. She mentioned that people like myself were paving the way for future generations..something I took to be a good sign.
We spoke about the business competition that they run, we talked about the cultures of certain consulting companies (my post mba goal) and how I would not fit into such and such but that I might better fit this or that company.
In a way I feel lucky to have been interviewed by her ( not sure if there is a way to choose your interviewer). She was very warm and friendly and it was definaltey and exchange of info.
We spoke for about 40 minutes and she gave me the impression that had there not been a time limit, we couldve kept talking for another 30 minutes. There were several more detailed example that I wouldve liked to address.
The interview was held in her office, much better than the windowless interrogation style room that I expected.
Prior to entering the room, you are asked to fill out a card which asks for basic info: gpa, gmat, etc...
If you flip the card, you will find the basic questions that the interviewer is supposed to have answered after the interview.
She took notes during the interview and filled up the entire back of my resume.
Cant say much about other admin staff...but if you have the option, definately interview with her. If you have the chance to make an impression on either a 2nd year or the admissions director, I think the choice is clear.