Knowing My Interviewer's Children

Colleges and Universities A-Z Harvard University
1

<p>Hello everybody, I've been lurking for a long time, but I have yet to post here. A few days ago I was asked about an interview with an alumni. It turns out that I know her son, the only problem is I am not sure if her son and I are on good terms. Also the interview is supposed to happen at her house, which could lead to a potential encounter with the son. Does anybody have advice on this situation? Does this happen a lot or is this abnormal?</p>

<p>P.S. I used to go to school with her son, but then I transferred, my transfer was shrouded in mystery and I think that many of the kids at my old school have the wrong idea as to the reason why I left. If he says something different to his mom about why I left, would that make me look like a liar? </p>

<p>I appreciate the help, </p>

<p>Hockeylady from New York.</p>

2

<p>I was in a similar situation - I knew my interviewer’s son through debate, and my interviewer had seen me debate against his son the previous weekend. He told me that if it would make me more comfortable, he could arrange to have someone else interview me, but I chose to stick with him.</p>

<p>I would recommend emailing your interviewer and briefly explaining to her that you know her son. That way she’ll know up front that you know her son so there will be no awkward encounters at her house, and if she feels at all conflicted she can potentially arrange for someone else to interview you. Good luck!</p>

3

<p>Or if you get a sense that nothing good can come from it, ask politely for a different interviewer. While a big step, an option nonetheless.</p>