1. Dress Smart
If ever there is a time for a power suit, a graduate school interview is that time. Some of the best places to find a business suit with style are JCPenny, Express, and The Limited. Most people opt for a basic black suit and a white shirt, but you might wind up looking like an extra from The Book of Mormon. Don’t be afraid of a little color – charcoal grey is a perfectly professional suit color, and any button up shirt with a muted tone is just fine for an interview. Minimal jewelry with light make-up and an up-do will complete your business professional ensemble.
2. Take Your Time
It may be tempting to hear the first part of a question and start thinking of one of your practiced answers, but it is important to wait to hear the entire question. Listen to the question, pause, and answer it to the best of your abilities. If it takes you an extra minute, say “That is an excellent question. I need a moment to think about it.” Or, ask them to expound on a question.
3. Leave Your Heels at Home
Trust me, graduate interviews can take all day. You are likely to have a group interview, a solitary interview, and a tour of the school before your day is over. Some schools schedule you from early in the morning until the middle of the afternoon. Wearing heels all day can, and will, hurt!
4. Have a Question Prepared for the Dean
Many people ask about tuition or something dull. If you want to stand out from the crowd in a positive way, ask the dean a serious question such as, “What is the most critically needed specialty in [your prospective field]?” This will show that you are serious about your career field.
5. Stay Calm
Don’t be surprised if your interviewer asks you something off-the-wall.
What are you reading right now? What is something you do that wastes time? Where do you get your news from? When is a time you helped a stranger?
All of those questions in addition to more “normal” questions (and more!) are fair game in an interview. One of the best ways to prepare beforehand is to attend a mock interview or have your roommates interview you.
Good luck Collegiettes! May the rolling admissions odds be ever in your favor.