Too much experience?

[whoneedsfreetime]

Do you think an applicant would ever get rejected because they were too qualified? I mean, if they had years of teaching experience, extensive field work, numerous publications etc. would that ever be a disadvantage?

I was reading over the results survey for past app seasons and some individuals described themselves as shocked because they weren't admitted despite research, funding, teaching, publications, conferences etc.

I know that the biggest factor in admissions is "fit," so obviously that is the likely reason for rejection, but still....just wondering what you all thought?

(I don't suffer from this problem, if it is one )

[palmyra]

I would think that lots of experience in your research topic of interest would almost always be beneficial. I do think most of those type comments on past results surveys more than likely indicate a mismatch in terms of fit with departmental goals and faculty research interests. No matter what accomplishments you've managed to achieve, a department will be unwilling to accept you if they do not feel equipped to advise you or help you achieve your future career goals.

[mutualist007]

You seem overly qualified.... Wow. I agree with the others that it must be an issue of "fit". You may not be allowed to have your own research agenda. I've come to think of "fit" as applying to be a staff member on the faculty member's research team.