<p>One imagines all kinds of scenarios...</p>
<p>Can anybody speak on this? Is it a fairly relaxed process or is it extremely intimidating? Essentially it is a job interview, so I imagine it would be pretty formal. Although from experiences I've had with committees, etc., professors are more encouraging/welcoming than the traditional potential boss.</p>
<p>Also, I'm applying to Romance Language programs; I imagine the interview would be held in the target language..?</p>
<p>Places like SDN's Clinical Psych forum have entire threads of examples but I get the impression that it really varies by program. Sometimes it'll be pretty chill whereas other times the competition <em>feels</em> fierce. As far as the language... I really don't know. If you're applying for a program in a specific target language, I could certainly see them throwing out some questions in the language as well as some culture questions to make sure you understand more than just the grammar and some vocab.</p>
<p>Thanks apumic!</p>
<p>Anyone else able to share?</p>
<p>Have you been contacted for an interview? Is it via phone or in person?</p>
<p>No no, this is completely premature. I've been wondering for years. I'm hoping to get at least one, of course! All of the schools I applied to are pretty far away from me, so I imagine they'd be by phone.</p>
<p>Lylek, I just got home from my first interview at Vanderbilt IGP. The interview process, at least there, was quite pleasant. It began with being taken to dinner by current grad students, which I gather is fun (due to the free dinner and attention from adoring potential colleagues) for them. The following morning, three faculty members from various departments presented their work, which I can only imagine is some of the most interesting going on in the program. </p>
<p>This was followed by half hour interviews with the faculty members you are most interested in meeting. These interviews are not what I had expected in any way. I had anticipated a job interview setup where the applicant discusses their background, how their skillset is relevant for the research currently being conducted and makes the case for why they would be a good fit for the department. This wasn't how it went. They know your background from your app, they want to know information that was omitted, eg why did you switch from cancer biology to microbiology as a sophomore, or what inspired you to work as a lab tech after college. They also spend a great deal of time trying to impress you into doing a rotation with their lab.</p>
<p>Following the interviews, there were poster sessions with current grad students. Also there was a panel of current grad students at lunch in order to give everyone a chance to ask the kind of questions you shouldn't ask in front of faculty eg. what time do you really need to show up in the morning, can you take a week of vacation during classes etc. The day ended with a concert/bar and tours of the city and campus.</p>
<p>There was very little stress involved and the whole experience was quite pleasant.</p>
<p>Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun, actually! I wonder if it will be any different for Romance Languages / Literatures??</p>
<p>Congrats on the interview!</p>