What does "the visit" mean?

[TheLadyT]

I have received invitations from two different schools to attend a recruitment event at their expense. I'm assuming this is a good thing, but I'm wondering just *how* good. Is this a guaranteed acceptance? Or something like "hey, we have 5 spots and we like 10 of you. We're going to bring you here to fight to the death for those 5 spots."

Thanks!

[Ole12]

I received a similar email invitation from one of the schools I applied to. When I called to set up the visiting arrangements I flat-out asked if it was an invitation to "interview" or if I had been admitted. Turned out, I was admitted out-right. It's true that the FAQ site on the "research symposium" I was invited to implied it was for admitted students, but I wasn't convinced. It's also a good sign that your invitation for the visit paid-for. They wouldn't pay if they weren't interested, right? Hey, the only stupid question is the one not-asked. I say: "Congrats!"

[TheLadyT]

Hmmm...I really want to believe you! I found a post in another forum (on gradcafe) where someone asked basically the same question I'm asking here - and the responses varied. Some people attending these types of things were still only potential candidates, while others were definite admits. I'm afraid to count my proverbial chickens before they've hatched! But I really, really hope you're right. :-)

[ktel]

It completely depends on the school and program. That's why you've heard different things. Some are serious interview weekends, and some are more like recruitment weekends to convince you to come since they already want to accept you.

[Hillary Emick]

Depends on the school and the program. It is perfectly acceptable to ask them how many people they are interviewing for how many spots.

[non humilis mulier]

I'm in a similar situation. It really is ok to ask? I feel shy to broach the topic... I dont want them to perceive me as pushy.

[shopki]

Here's the tiny bit that I know. I've been accepted to one school and I'm still going to the weekend in late March. Since I'm already in and know that they really want me, they'll probably be trying hard to convince me to stick with them. On the other hand, if you haven't been explicitly offered admission, then odds are you will be "competing" against other prospectives. That said, don't get too worked up- just be yourself, re-read your application materials so you are ready for their questions and have fun (they are paying for your trip, after all)!

Interviews can vary greatly from softball, get-to-know-you questions like "So what's your favorite thing about field X?" to hard-core field-related questions like "How do you read Malory's Morte d'Arthur in light of the War of the Roses?" In my opinion, you can't be frank enough with your POI. Politely ask how many spots are still available and how many are being interviewed. This should let you know how serious they are, or how certain they feel. Bottom line: they're using their skimpy funding to fly you across the country- they want you! So relax and shine while you're there. You can only do your best.

[TheLadyT]

Thanks to all of you for your responses! I really appreciate the feedback. My advisor told me to "go and just be myself." I'm going to try to ignore the jitters and anxiety and do just that!