This application season, I applied to 12 Ph.D. programs based entirely on research interest. From that list, I have four interviews, three of which are at lower ranked programs (each has resulted in an acceptance letter). The fourth program was my top choice and is very well received.
After being passed over for interviews from every other 'top school' that I applied to, I don't feel as competitive. The interview with my top choice is coming up and I've started talking with people that are interviewing for the positions. Not only are their qualifications eclipsing mine, but several of them have been accepted to universities where I didn't even get an interview.
I have prepared as well as I can for this interview, but I'm trying to not get my hopes up. It has been a long time since I wanted something this bad and I wouldn't want to fall short and attend a university that I don't have the same passion for.
Each year, they admit around 5 people and interview 20 people. When interviews are requested, do applicants usually have an equal opportunity or do committees typically have a pre-conceived notion of admit preference?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.