Graduate School Visits – What to expect, how to plan and put your best foot forward. Malika Moutawakkil Bell STEM Diversity Director Minority Access to Research Careers Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity California Alliance for Minority Participation UC LEADS PREP

Check in…Where are you going?

The Process Applications reviewed by a committee Receive a sponsored invitation May already have an offer may be an interview Arrange trip with the campus graduate coordinator

Scheduling Allow for time during winter quarter for interviews Usually 1-2 day experience plus travel Check schedule and arrange dates around midterms and other commitments Ask faculty to reschedule midterms if necessary Communicate with your supervisors in lab or at work

Preparing for the trip Review your application packet Research research going on in the department Find out which faculty you will be visiting if possible and study up Practice an interview (role play) Prepare questions to ask them Contact your connections at the school (if you have any) Read your often keep up with information from department coordinators

The Elevator Talk

Packing One “nice” outfit for each interview day Pack as light as possible and carry on Appropriate shoes (check weather reports and terrain of the campus) “Outfit for social events *** See packing list ***

What to Expect (different for each school) One-on-one interviews with faculty Seminar Meeting in small groups Social event(s) with graduate students, faculty and staff Campus/lab tour To be asked about your research experience, interests and goals

What are they really looking for? Typical Interview Topics: Your education Your research experience Information from your application What else are they considering? First Impression – Personal Chemistry Competence Will you be a good fit? Communication Skills, motivation, Will you be productive Will you accept an offer or are we your safe school?

Our Faculty Panel What are you looking for? How could one “blow it?”- AKA: what don’t you want to see in your one-on-one Small talk? What do you always ask, if anything? How can students prepare?