"So...you think you want more education...?"

[OCD or Perfection?]

Now that it's come this far, I need help. I am interviewing at Rice University tomorrow for their Master of Arts in Teaching for Experienced Educators program. Specifically, I have two questions:

 

1. Why do universities interview candidates?

I've said everything I could think of in my SOP, Resume and other information I've shared. I have submitted four LORs. I even had a one-hour, one-on-one meeting with the entire team that's meeting me again tomorrow, back in October. So, what are they looking for tomorrow? The other two programs I've applied to, Harvard and Columbia, are not interviewing for Masters.

 

2. What is the appropriate attire? I'm a boy and the interviewers are four ladies 

I am perfectly comfortable wearing a business suit (wore it daily for four years) but I don't want to be overdressed because I AM interviewing with educationists. However, I would hate to be under-dressed and give them the impression that I didn't care enough. I actually really love Rice and it's a dream school.

 

So Khakis, dress shoes, tie and a formal sweater? Suit? Khaki and Polo? Whaaa???

Edited February 11, 2014 by OCD or Perfection?

[ginagirl]

I can't necessarily speak for the reason behind the interview (mainly because every program is different) but chances are they are interested in you and are interested in getting to know you better OR they are trying to sell their program. I like to overprepare, personally, and would suggest reviewing the information about the department, why you feel you are a good fit, where your strengths/weaknesses lie, your preparation for the program, etc.

As far as attire, it never hurts to email the department to ask. It's better to know what they expect than to be worried about what to wear and be uncomfortable when you arrive and realize you are under/overdressed. I would assume they are expecting business casual though, if you are hesitant to email them this close to the interview.

[peachypie]

1.  Universities interview candidates to make sure it is a good fit for both you and the school.  They also like to see that you are what you say you are on paper and so they are making sure it all adds up.  It is also their time to educate you about them and their program more and in a more formal/presented situation.  The fact that you are having a second one on one may be more formality.  Although my interviews have all been a whole day of interviews one on one, not just 1 hour, so maybe they want more time.

2.  i wore a suit for everything, a navy suit with a nice shirt and heels (I'm a girl obvi) and I would much rather be the dressed up more than less especially if you care.  Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident and try to make it look nice.  So far I've been more dressed than the professors but so have other applicants. and the applicants who don't dress up have definitely been judged by the grad students even when they are in jeans.  Take that as you will.

Best of luck!

[iphi]

You can also do a collared shirt + jacket with no tie. It looks nice and isn't overdressed.

[OCD or Perfection?]

Thank you guys. Tie, merino wool sweater and a suit...still I was shivering. AND..I GOT INNNN!!