Interviewd by POI but never heard back!

[icthere]

So I contacted a professor at a Canadian university back in Nov. about my interest in joining his research group for Fall 2012. He seemed quite excited about my record. We talked over phone in early Dec and discussed the possibilities for future projects. We exchanged a few emails after the interview in which he mentioned that he would be making a decision by Jan 15th. During this time, I sent him another email with an update in my resume but did not get any response. I emailed him again on Jan 16th asking if I am still being considered, but again nothing.

Now, the application deadline is approaching and I have to make my decision whether or not to apply. I understand that I may not stand a big chance with this professor but I don't want to ruin it completely by nagging him to answer. How many days do you think I should wait before I send him another email? And, do you think it is a good idea to give him a call?

[Jwnich1]

Hi icthere,

Not coming from a field where interviews are the norm, dont take my response as fact. Having said that, I would definitely apply! Any number of things could have happened. Yes, he could have decided he wanted nothing to do with you, and dropped your conversation - but this seems highly unlikely. What seems more likely is any number of things: He is super busy apply for a grant, totally forgot to reply when he meant to ,went on sabbatical and didnt tell you etc etc etc.

The bottom line as I see it, is that if you don't apply, you'll never know. If you do, the VERY worst thing that could happen, is you end up right where you are now.

Good luck!

Justin

[Eigen]

There's no reason not to apply. You'll need to have officially applied either way, and it gives you some time to decide.

[icthere]

Thank you guys!

I guess you are right. I won't lose anything by applying.

Today, I noticed that he has made some fancy changes to his website which clearly tells me he is not "super busy". Actually, I am kind of irritated. Although I was initially very enthusiastic about this guy and his research, I now have serious doubts that I will want to accept his possible offer.

I will probably wait for a few more days and then make a decision.

[habanero]

You need to apply! Don't judge him negatively for updating his website--it is possible he got an undergraduate to do it.