I was invited for a Zoom conversation regarding my application by POI. Is this an informal interview?

[Psychif]

Hi!

 

Two weeks ago I applied to a PhD program in psychology and I received an email from a POI yesterday . She said that she reviewed my application and that she wondered if I have time for an hour long Zoom conversation regarding my application. I answered it positively, and kindly asked her to give me more detail about this conversation so that I can prepare. She said that she would like to discuss my research experience, the kinds of topics you would be interested in, the projects she is working on, and where I see a possible fit between my interests, and the needs of her lab.

Now, is this an informal interview or something like a pre-interview? What do you think?

Also, out of 4 programs I applied, I got a response from two--this is one of them. I haven't decided which one to choose yet and I am a little indecisive at the moment. Any suggestions for this?

 

[PsyDuck90]

An informal interview and a pre-interview are the same thing. Some faculty reach out to speak with students before finalizing lists for invites to the formal interview day/weekend. 

Getting responses from 2 programs is great. It doesn't mean that you are accepted though. Do the interviews with the 2 schools and then if/when you get acceptances, that's when to worry about which program to pick. The interviews will be able to give you a much better idea of which program you prefer if given a choice. 

[Psychif]

Thank you. I know that these responses don't mean that I am accepted. 
Is it certain that this invitation for Zoom call is just an informal interview? Should I prepare it as if I will be formally interviewed?

[PsyDuck90]

Typically, when you are invited for a formal interview, they explain it as such. Like, they verbatim say that you are invited to interview for the program. I would still prepare for the informal one. They are usually trying to confirm that you would be a good fit and maybe decide between a few people. 

[Psychif]

Thanks!