<p>Tomorrow, I'm meeting with a professor to discuss the possibility of my working in her lab next semester (and beyond). I am a freshman with no prior research experience, just a deep and abiding interest in science. What sort of questions should I expect? What questions would be appropriate to ask of her? Is there anything strictly off-limits that I should not mention? What is the proper protocol after the interview (do I wait for her to e-mail me, or...?) </p>
<p>If you haven’t already, go to the prof’s website and see what kinds of studies she does, that should give you some possible questions to ask her. She’ll probably just ask you about your academic interests, future plans, etc. There might also be some nuts and bolts questions, like how many hours you can work, willingness to do certain kinds of experiments (eg. on animals), etc. Be honest and straightforward, don’t worry about your lack of experience, as I assume she knows that already. And even though prior experience can be helpful, most labs like to teach the specific methodologies that they use, so being a clean slate can be beneficial in some ways.</p>
<p>You can always send a brief email thanking her for her time and expressing your interest in working for her.</p>
<p>At D’s interview they primarily discussed her Music Minor and ability to play piano. I do not think it is helpful for you to know. Just want to tell you to lighten up, they will not bite, seriously!
BTW, her Music Minor and other related to music topics, from classical music to pop, was in fact the most common topic at Med. School interviews.</p>