Tips for Ph.D. interview

Graduate school interview season is here. During your interviews, make sure you come prepared with questions for the programs.

Both side interview session

 While professors are interviewing you, remember that you are also interviewing them. It goes both ways! You want to find the program that fits you the most because after all, you will be there for the next 4-5 years. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Look for any red flags 

 What is the average year for students to graduate? If there are many 7+ years students, then the program may not be doing a good job graduating students. Do current students look miserable?

Always have questions

Interviewers will always ask if you have any questions, so be prepared to ask away whether it is about the program in general or about their research. For instance, I read the short description of their research area on their profile and then ask questions as they talk more about their work during the interview.

 

Be honest 

Nothing is worse than blabbering nonsense and the PI knows that you’re making things up. It is okay to say I don’t know.

Have fun because the hardest part is getting an interview! You’ve clearly proven yourself for the program to meet with you in person 

By Nimalsha Hansani/ nim_niii