How to prepare for an Interview?
This section reviews what you should expect when meeting with a person or group of persons that want to know more about your application. We discuss some tips that you should consider before presenting to an interview. A downloadable version of the document is provided below for your assistance.
Selection Committees are always interested in knowing more about your application. They want to see the way you carry yourself, your motivation, and your dedication to the position you are applying for. They also want to make sure that you have a clear idea of the position and how it could help in your professional development. In other words, they want to make sure you can handle obstacles and succeed in their program, and that you share the department's and faculty's research interests.
Tips for a Good Interview:
Be on time
Try to be 10 to 5 minutes early.
Make a good impression:
Dress, speak, and act professionally. Show enthusiasm, be honest, and be yourself.
Be prepared:
Make sure you do extensive research on the school, the department, and the professor including their publications, research, and teaching interests. What is unique about them and of particular interest to you?
Be thankful:
Thank the interviewer(s) for taking the time to meet with you and express again your interest in joining the program. Once the meeting has concluded send a well developed email within 48 hours of the interview.
Don't be afraid to ask for clarification.
It's okay to not understand everything at first, it's better to ask for a repetition of what you didn't catch than accepting or denying something you didn't understand.
Avoid talking too much or too little
Avoid answering just “yes” or “no.” Do not speak negatively about other supervisors, professors, or peers. Be able to cite examples of situations where you demonstrated skills or positive personal attributes.
Some of the questions that may ask you in the interview include:
About you:
What are some of the strengths and weaknesses you have? How do you handle stress? What are your hobbies? What great challenges have you faced?
Your educational and work experience:
Describe some research projects you have worked on. What inspired you to get your previous degree? Do you have previous experience in working with different people? Do you have previous training you would like to emphasize from your curriculum that aligns with the program objectives?
Interest in the field program and plans:
Why are you interested in this program? How will this program help you achieve your career goals? What are your short and long-term goals after completing this program if you were selected? What contributions could you bring to the program you are applying for?
Be prepared to ask questions:
Is there something you would like to dig deeper into the position you are applying for, such as what distinguishes that program from others? Or what other graduate opportunities are offered, and in what ways could you get involved in other activities?
References
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Lehman College. (n.d.). Lehman College: Career Services. Retrieved March 09, 2024, from Lehman College: https://www.lehman.edu/career-services/documents/Grad-SchoolInterview.pdf
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Virginia State University. (n.d.). Virginia State University. Retrieved March 09, 2024, from Virginia State University: Career Services: https://www.vsu.edu/files/docs/careerservices/traditional-interview-prep.pdf