Interview Prep

Preparing for Success:

What to Wear & Why it Matters:

• You’ve earned this interview – now let’s make sure your presence reflects your drive and professionalism.
• Your attire matters – it helps create a strong first impression and shows respect for the opportunity and institution.
• Dress for impact – choose an outfit that aligns with professional expectations while also making you feel confident.
• Comfort counts – looking polished is important, but your comfort will help you stay focused and confident during the interview.
• Focus on what matters – with your attire in place, you can concentrate on articulating your qualifications and showing why you’re the ideal candidate.

In-Person Interviews:

To make the most of your in-person graduate school interview day, thorough preparation is key. Here’s our top recommendations on how to best prepare!

• Plan Ahead: Map out your travel & accommodations for the day, allowing for delays, while also ensuring you know the interview schedule and on-site locations.
• Research: Familiarize yourself with the school, faculty, and current projects or publications. Not only will this help facilitate conversations but it will provide an insight into the values of the program.
• Review: Take time to review your application materials including your statement of purpose, resume, and writing samples.
• Prepare: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask both faculty and current graduate students. Remember, you’re interviewing the program as much as they are interviewing you!

Online Interviews:

Your online graduate school interview is a pivotal moment, demanding the same level of seriousness and preparation as an in-person meeting. While the setting is virtual, the opportunity to make a strong impression and connect with the interviewer is just as significant. Here’s a few more tips on how to confidently navigate your online interview:

• Tech Prep: Make sure to test your connection, camera, and microphone prior to the interview!
• Back-Up Plan: Keep a cell phone or tablet handy, just in case you need an alternative means of interviewing.
• Be Early: Join the call 5-10 minutes early to troubleshoot any technical mishaps and enter the interview feeling calm and prepared.
• Dress Professionally: Just as you would for an in-person interview, professional attire helps you feel confident and makes a positive impression on the interviewer.

Making the Right Impression:

Your graduate school interview is your moment to shine beyond your application. The interview is about showcasing your enthusiasm, academic curiosity, and professional goals. This is your opportunity to demonstrate to the faculty that you are both qualified and a great fit for this program. Discover the subtle cues and strategies that will leave a lasting positive impression and solidify your candidacy.

Navigating the Interview Process: