Oh my gosh, I feel so dumb. I had my Duke interview last week, and I made a terrible mistake. It’s agonizing. My interviewer chose a coffee shop near my school, and I got there like 20 minutes early. I happened to see some acquaintances I know from school; they were having a study session. So I sat down with them intending to just say hi and make small talk, planning to move to an empty table come my interview time. BUT, I lost track of time and my interviewer walked in and ordered coffee etc. (I saw her walk in but wasn’t sure if it was her.) Then she came up to me and asked if I was the interviewee. Yes, I was. I was very flustered about that, and mentioned that I just ran into my friends, rambling for a little bit about study groups. I am very afraid that I gave her the impression that I intentionally met with them (which I know would be rude and weird). I also really hope I didn’t make her uncomfortable by having people I know there, since we only moved to the other side of the cafe. The interview went okay, but I was dumb again and actually rejoined my acquaintances as my interviewer and I walked out (because I had to wait for my ride). I guess that would make it seem like I planned to meet them there. Anyway, I feel so dumb and really am just angry with myself. I’m just so frustrated.
Forget about it. You both met up and the interview went fine. Not a problem, particularly when you don’t know what each other look like.
I see no reason for the OP to feel anxiety about the interview. At least the interviewer knows that the OP is not a social recluse with no friends. If anything, having acquaintances at the coffee shop might be seen as a positive.
First of all, interviews count for very little so I highly highly doubt this would hurt your chances at all. Secondly, stop overthinking it! It’s really not that bad! There’s nothing you can do to change it so more forward and forget. Best of luck with your application
I agree, you are fine. Alumni interviews don’t count for much and you said the interview went just fine. Move on.
Congrats on the acceptance! Goes to show interviews don’t matter too too much, I guess?
From Duke CDS: Interview is “Considered” but neither “Important” nor “Very Important.”
Yes, as @junior1818 pointed out, I got in! Thanks everyone for the input 