Talking to POI at Conference

[timbodi]

Even though, as a fall 2014 PhD applicant, I technically belong on the "waiting it out..." forum, I would like some thoughts from seasoned conference-goers and students. Next month I'm presenting a paper at a conference where my POI at one of the schools I applied to will be present. I am anxious about it, mainly because by then (I think) the accepted students will have been contacted. If I haven't heard back by then, it is likely because I have been rejected. A bad impression may also keep me off the waiting list.

 

Aside from obsessively preparing my paper/presentation and debating what I should wear (which I'm already doing), what are your thoughts about how to deal with this potentially uncomfortable (and doubtlessly nerve wracking) situation? If I have been rejected, should I still introduce myself to my POI? Obviously I should avoid asking about decisions, but how do you recommend going about talking to this person?

 

Thank you!

[pears]

I'd say it's still worth it to introduce yourself. After all, they may be a collaborator, a source of advice (e.g., reading recommendations), etc.; better to maintain bridges than to burn them or let them deteriorate on their own, I guess. I introduced myself to a few professors from my second choice program -- I ended up not attending -- just a couple days after they conditionally accepted me. It was awkward at first, but it was nice to make face time with professors whose work I admire, program decisions aside.

[timbodi]

Thank you! I was recently accepted to the program, so I can breathe a little easier when approaching the POI. Even so, your advice is very helpful!

[gingin6789]

I am also in this same boat.  Within a larger conference, there is a "mini-conference" for a more specialized area of interest!  I'll be presenting at that conference.  The presider?  My POI at one of my schools! Now, the conference is less than 20 days after the deadline, so I am simultaneously elated and terrified about presenting in front of her.  Moreover, I'm going to a reception dinner with her that same evening!  *hyperventilates*

 

I'm so happy to hear you've been accepted!  Congratulations!

 

For everyone else, here's a word about being rejected and seeing your POI at a conference:  A person I met at a aconference said that they jokingly said to their POI  at this conference "Hi, I'm ____ and I recently got rejected by your program," just in a lighthearted, "no hard feelings," almost joking way.  After they talked, the POI said "I'm going to reconsider your application, actually ..."

 

So, anything can happen! Put yourself out there!

[timbodi]

For everyone else, here's a word about being rejected and seeing your POI at a conference:  A person I met at a aconference said that they jokingly said to their POI  at this conference "Hi, I'm ____ and I recently got rejected by your program," just in a lighthearted, "no hard feelings," almost joking way.  After they talked, the POI said "I'm going to reconsider your application, actually ..."

 

My worry now, of course, is that he'll see my presentation and say, "I'm going to reconsider your acceptance..."

 

Thank you, and good luck with the upcoming conference! I'm sure it'll be a great experience.

[gingin6789]

Haha that is a scary thought, but it absolutely won't happen!! Can they even do that??  

[timbodi]

I don't think so, but I sure hope not!