Open House Invitation Before Being Admitted

[L_sjkdf]

Hi guys, 

So after 2 month not hearing back from Columbia, I got an email yesterday. They said that they had completed the initial review of the applicants to the biological science PhD program, and they were impressed by my application. Then they invited me to their March Open House and I think they indicated that they will pay for our travel and lodging expenses.

Is that the same thing as interviews because they did not mention any of that in the email. Or is it just a regular open house? I though these are just for students who are admitted to the program. So confused right now.

[Neist]

Well, I guess it's a positive sign.

If they are going to pay for your traveling expenses, I say go. What's the worse that could happen, you get to check out a program for free and your not admitted? That's not super great, but it's not super terrible either.

[L_sjkdf]

Thanks Neist, I guess you are right.

I emailed them trying to get more information. Worst case I'll just see this as an opportunity to see the city...

[TakeruK]

I don't think it matters if it's an interview or not. You should act the same! Professionalism and good first impressions are always important in academia!