PhD Interview Questions | What do PhD supervisors look for in applicants?

Summary

In this video, Casey, a professor with years of experience in PhD admissions, provides essential tips for applicants preparing for PhD interviews. She emphasizes the importance of showing passion and commitment, highlighting research fit with potential advisors, and discussing both strengths and weaknesses candidly. Casey also advises applicants to research faculty members and be prepared to engage in meaningful conversations about their research interests. She touches on cultural fit, professionalism, and the significance of asking insightful questions during interviews. This video is a must-watch for PhD hopefuls aiming to make a great impression during their application process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Review your statement of purpose before interviews to remind yourself of your motivations and what the faculty already knows about you.
• 😀 Do thorough research on the faculty member you're meeting with, especially if they weren’t mentioned in your statement of purpose.
• 😀 Make sure you can clearly articulate why you want to pursue a PhD, highlighting both your commitment and passion for the field.
• 😀 Ensure your reasons for applying to a specific program align with the research fit and culture, as well as your personal interests.
• 😀 Be honest about your research interests and align them with faculty members' work, but avoid pretending to be interested in something you’re not.
• 😀 Share your research experience in a narrative format to showcase your interests and enthusiasm without just listing accomplishments.
• 😀 Discuss both your strengths and weaknesses, being open about areas where you need support while framing weaknesses as opportunities for growth.
• 😀 Don’t give a generic answer to questions like ‘Tell me about yourself.’ Use this opportunity to emphasize what makes you unique and relevant to the program.
• 😀 Cultural fit is important, so be polite, respectful, and pleasant with everyone, including faculty, staff, and current students.
• 😀 Ask insightful questions during your interview to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of the program and research being conducted.
• 😀 Remember that you are applying for a PhD to learn and grow, not to already know everything. Be open to learning new methods and collaborating with others.

Q & A

Why is it important to re-read your statement of purpose before any interviews or conversations with potential PhD advisors?

Re-reading your statement of purpose helps you remind yourself of the reasons you chose that specific school and faculty members. It also allows you to understand what the faculty already know about you and ensures that you're consistent in your answers during conversations.

What should you research about a faculty member before an interview or conversation?

You should look into the faculty member's recent publications, their research projects (even those not yet published), their grant funding, and the current research of their students. This helps you align your research interests with theirs and shows that you are prepared for the discussion.

What are two key things a potential PhD advisor is looking for during an interview?

A potential PhD advisor is looking for commitment and passion. They want to know that you are fully dedicated to pursuing a PhD and that you are genuinely passionate about the subject matter.

Why is it a bad sign if a PhD applicant is unsure about why they want to pursue a PhD?

If a PhD applicant isn't clear about why they want a PhD, it suggests a lack of commitment and passion. A PhD is a significant investment of time and resources, so an advisor wants to ensure that the applicant is truly dedicated to the journey.

How should you express why you want to join a particular PhD program during an interview?

You should explain how the program aligns with your research interests, particularly with the faculty member's work. It’s also helpful to mention other aspects, such as the department's culture or location, but research fit should be the primary focus.

What should you avoid doing when talking about your research interests during an interview?

You should avoid being too specific or rigid about your dissertation plans. It's important to show flexibility and willingness to adapt to the ongoing work in the department while also expressing your passion for your own research interests.

Why is honesty crucial when discussing your research interests with a potential advisor?

Honesty is important because it ensures that you are matched with the right advisor who can competently mentor you. If you claim an interest in research that doesn't align with the faculty member’s expertise, it could lead to dissatisfaction and an unproductive relationship.

What should you do if you are asked about your strengths and weaknesses during a PhD interview?

You should be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. When discussing weaknesses, frame them as areas for growth, and explain how the program will help you develop in those areas. Avoid giving cliché answers like working too hard, and focus on genuine aspects of your abilities.

How should you present your strengths in an interview without sounding arrogant?

Present your strengths with humility by providing specific examples of how you’ve applied them in the past. This allows you to emphasize your skills without coming across as boastful, and also helps to illustrate how you can contribute to the lab or department.

What type of questions should you ask during an interview or conversation with a potential advisor?

You should ask insightful questions about the advisor’s current research, the department’s culture, and opportunities for collaboration. It's important to ask about aspects of the program that are relevant to your own academic and professional growth.