Graduate School

Interviewing

Congratulations! If you’ve been invited to interview for a graduate program, it means the admissions committee is impressed with your application and sees you as a potential fit for their program. The interview is your chance to further showcase your qualifications, learn more about the program, and determine if it’s the right fit for you. 

Purpose of the Interview

Graduate school interviews serve several key purposes: 

• Assess your fit: The program wants to evaluate if your goals, interests, and personality align with their program’s culture and focus. 
• Clarify your qualifications: The interview allows you to elaborate on your application materials and provide more context for your experiences. 
• Evaluate your communication skills: Programs assess your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly, engage in professional conversations, and present yourself confidently. 
• Gauge your interest and motivation: Interviewers want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the program and your chosen field of study. 
• Answer your questions: The interview is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and gather information to help you decide if the program is a good fit. Take the opportunity to ask about funding and research/teaching positions.

Types of Interview Formats

Graduate school interviews can take various formats, including: 

• One-on-one interviews: You’ll meet with a faculty member or a member of the admissions committee. 
• Panel interviews: You’ll be interviewed by a group of faculty members. 
• Group interviews: You and other applicants will participate in group activities or discussions. 
• Virtual interviews: Interviews conducted online via video conferencing platforms. 

Preparing for the Interview

Thorough preparation is crucial for a successful interview. Here’s how to prepare: 

• Research the Program and Interviewers: 
  • Learn as much as you can about the program’s curriculum, research areas, faculty, and overall goals. 
  • If possible, find out who will be interviewing you and research their backgrounds and interests. 
• Review Your Application: 
  • Familiarize yourself with your application materials, including your personal statement, transcript, and letters of recommendation. 
  • Be prepared to discuss your research experience, academic background, and career goals in detail. 
• Prepare Key Talking Points: 
  • Identify your strengths, skills, and experiences that make you a strong candidate. 
  • Prepare concise and compelling answers to common interview questions (see below). 
• Prepare Questions to Ask: 
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers. This demonstrates your interest in the program and helps you gather important information. 
• Practice, Practice, Practice: 
  • Conduct mock interviews with a career counselor, mentor, or faculty member. 
  • Practice answering questions out loud, focusing on your delivery, body language, and clarity of speech. 
  • If your interview is virtual, practice using the technology and ensure your setup is professional. 
• Professional Attire: 
  • Dress professionally and appropriately for the program and field. When in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of being more formal. 
• Logistics: 
  • Confirm the date, time, and location (or virtual platform) of the interview. 
  • Plan your travel and accommodations if necessary. 
  • For virtual interviews, ensure you have a stable internet connection, a quiet and well-lit environment, and a professional background. 

Interview Day Tips

• Be Punctual: Arrive on time or log in a few minutes early for virtual interviews. 
• Be Confident and Enthusiastic: Project confidence, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in the program. 
• Be Professional and Respectful: Maintain a professional demeanor and treat everyone you meet with respect. 
• Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and respond thoughtfully. 
• Articulate Your Thoughts Clearly: Speak clearly and concisely, and avoid using jargon or slang. 
• Highlight Your Strengths: Emphasize your unique qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate. 
• Address Weaknesses Positively: If asked about weaknesses, frame them as areas for growth and explain what you are doing to improve. 
• Build Rapport: Engage in a genuine conversation with the interviewers and try to establish a connection. 
• Close Strong: Thank the interviewers for their time and reiterate your interest in the program. 

Following Up

• Send a thank-you note to each interviewer within 24-48 hours of the interview. 
• Reiterate your interest in the program and briefly mention something specific you discussed during the interview. 

By preparing thoroughly and presenting yourself professionally, you can increase your chances of making a positive impression and securing admission to your desired graduate program.