GSA #13: On (Skype) Interviews

It’s admissions season here, and my colleagues and I have been going through BA and MA applications and interviews for our program. This exercise has made me think several things.

One, many of our applicants have accomplished incredible things, even before they get to college. They think deep thoughts, do exciting things, and overcome considerable obstacles. I am impressed. (Of course, the students whose applications I read are a particular subset of people around the world.)

Two, different countries have different education systems. DUH. But when it comes time to rank students from all over the world for an international (particularly undergraduate) program, there’s a lot to consider in evaluating these applications. (Of course, even in the United States there are all sorts of schools, which influences the kinds of application “package” a student can submit. I’m sure the level of complexity is the same even within the U.S. microcosm.)

Three, although I went through my undergrad and Ph.D. application processes years ago, the job application process is still fresh(ly smarting) in my memory. And my god have I learned things about the (Skype) interview process that I wished I'd known earlier. Even though I read the post about phone/Skype interviews on The Professor Is In blog (along with many others), there's nothing like being on the interviewing side that really brings these things home:

1. Relax—if at all possible. While nervousness is often acknowledged by both parties, it puts a weight on all of your responses. And trust me, it's not good weight. (And contrary to what Sheryl Sandberg might say, don't lean in. It gives off a desperate vibe.)
2. Smile—not an idiot smile, but a comfortable smile—and DON'T STOP. It's heartbreaking when an applicant that had been smiling stumbles on a difficult question and stops smiling. It's almost like a quiet declaration of defeat. 
3. Make declarative statements—we're not playing an improv game here; don't answer a question with a question. Even if you're wrong, just say it like you mean it—and believe that you're right. Confidence (even if it's feigned, but especially if it's genuine) can make you look like a million bucks.
4. Be humble—yes, I know, I just emphasized confidence, but there's nothing more annoying than someone who isn't able to acknowledge just how much more there is to learn. Isn't that why we're in this business in the first place?
5. Don't look at note(card)s—write stuff down on your brain. I think it's perfectly appropriate to have pen and paper ready to take notes (especially since it shows that you are taking seriously the conversation you are having), but there's something unnatural about looking at note(card)s while you are trying to have a conversation with your interviewers. Things you say in an interview should be second-nature—whether it's about yourself, your research, or the school to which you are applying. If it's not something you know, it shouldn't be coming out of your mouth.

I practiced doing a Skype interview twice, with my friend and my professor, and it was immensely helpful. But now I realize that what would've been even more helpful was to practice being an interviewer, so that I could see for myself the things to do and not to do. So if you have friends who are on the job market with you, give each other practice interviews! It'll be a great bonding experience, and it'll be hella useful too.

I'm learning an incredible amount through this admission process—and I’m sending positive energy to all the students who get to apply to university and take entrance exams! And even more positive energy to the folks who are on the job market (academic or not), trying to find a job that they are happy with. 

[Yes, that's an alcohol ad...but I like it!!! It's so appropriate for my mood right now...]