Interviews

[Polanthro]

Hi everyone, I'm new to Anthropology and somewhat unfamiliar with the application process. In my old field of study, interviews were never part of the application process, but I have heard mixed answers as to whether they are common for applicants in Cultural/Social Anthropology. Should I be hoping for offers of interviews, or just expecting to hear good or bad decisive news?

Thanks!

[AKJen]

Hi everyone, I'm new to Anthropology and somewhat unfamiliar with the application process. In my old field of study, interviews were never part of the application process, but I have heard mixed answers as to whether they are common for applicants in Cultural/Social Anthropology. Should I be hoping for offers of interviews, or just expecting to hear good or bad decisive news?

Thanks!

I applied to eight programs last year and the only program that I interviewed at was interdisciplinary in nature. I know of one or two schools that do interviews for sure (MIT HASTS, Emory). However, at the four programs to which I was accepted, I had informal, interview-like conversations with my prospective advisors. I would try and get in touch for even a short phone chat if possible, but again this wasn't a formal process.

I think most people will just have to wait as painful as I know that is.

Edited January 11, 2011 by jennyb

[lab ratta-tat-tat]

If you receive an offer for an interview- Congratulations! They liked your application and want to learn more about YOU and what you did in the past and what you can contribute yo their program. An interview is a great opportunity for faculty members to talk to you more and look at your application less. Take this time to think about all the positives in your application and figure out a way to highlight them in conversation. If the conversation goes in a negative direction address the issue but quickly sling shot back to other positive aspects of your application

[samjones]

rutgers anthro has also done interviews in passed years.