Open house invitation

[ristastic]

I was recently invited to an "open house" at one of my schools, at which an informal lunch will be served and we'll have a chance to meet with professors, talk to current graduate students and learn about some of the department's new programs. Is this as innocuous as it sounds, or a secret ploy to see who's really interested? What's your experience with these so-called "open houses"?

This whole process has made me really paranoid.

[Victorianna]

In my experience open houses are a way for universities to woo you to their program. It is also an excellent way for them to feel you out as a candidate. They will be able to determine if you are a good fit for the department and you will be able to evaluate your level of comfort with your potential cohort, faculty, etc.

Congrats on the invitation and have fun!

[piccgeek]

In my experience open houses are a way for universities to woo you to their program. It is also an excellent way for them to feel you out as a candidate. They will be able to determine if you are a good fit for the department and you will be able to evaluate your level of comfort with your potential cohort, faculty, etc.

Congrats on the invitation and have fun!

+1. I totally understand getting paranoid about the process, but I think that in general, if they're inviting you to the campus it can't possibly be a BAD sign, and it might be a really good sign...try to think positive!

[gollux]

I just got one of these as well, extended to all applicants for the program. I imagine that they tell you it doesn't hurt your chances not to go, but I'm so paranoid that I feel like I have to. And it's going to be a real pain in the ass, since it's on a weekday, and far away. Would love more insight into the Open House phenomenon... is it the kind of thing where you need to go and gladhand and have a winning personality and shiny ponytail? Or can you miss it without penalty?