My previous post detailed the 2-day academic interview. Here are my top lessons learned.

  1. Be yourself. While being professional and informal is important, be sure to show your personality. Remember, you are not a robot; even if you are the most qualified candidate, you want your potential future co-workers to view you as a well-rounded, passionate person with real life interests and goals.
  2. Bring comfortable shoes if your itinerary includes tours or moving between buildings.
  3. Practice, practice, practice your presentation! Save it in as many places as possible.
  4. Have a list of questions ready to ask (as every encounter ended with “Do you have any questions?”).
  5. You will be offered dozens of bathroom breaks. TAKE THEM. This is a great time to de-stress, whether that is by drinking some water, checking your phone, fixing your hair, etc.