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Original poster

PhD interview - what to expect?!

9 replies

Mrsmaudwatts · 28/02/2019 14:40

I can't believe I'm writing this, but I have a PhD interview coming up! I'm 45 so not your typical applicant. It's funded, so I know it's likely to be very competitive, to be honest, I really can't believe I've got this far! I'm reading and reading and trying to critique my proposal, anything else I should be doing go prepare? I'm more excited than nervous, which is a nice feeling!

OP posts:
Springisallaround · 28/02/2019 18:34

Well done for getting an interview! I don't know what it's like in your PhD competition, but the ones we do, the interview isn't usually the clincher- it's more to see if there's any major problems with the candidates that aren't spotted on paper and to see how keen/their career plans for the future. I'd be looking for someone keen and enthusiastic, but also realistic and with a good plan of how to tackle the PhD and finish within the requisite 3 to 3 1/2 years now expected. Also I prefer candidates who seem like they are going to make the most of the PhD in terms of grabbing opportunities like conferences, workshops. Don't spend all your time discussing the logistics of how you'll hardly be able to attend the uni or go to anything (I'm sure you won't anyway!)

Mostly it is to put a face to a proposal though. Good luck!

Original poster
Mrsmaudwatts · 28/02/2019 20:52

Thanks! I'm super passionate about the subject, and I'm in the process of trying to get an article published on the same topic. So hopefully that will help my case. It's part time and only work a few hours a week, us my MA (distinction) I completed whilst working full time, so hopefully that helps to show my dedication. 🤞🤞

OP posts:
parietal · 28/02/2019 21:12

typical questions:

  • describe your previous research?
  • what is the first thing you would do in this new project?
  • why do you want a PhD?
  • what are the challenges in your proposed project?
  • what do you know about X (X = key topic in the field)
Original poster
Mrsmaudwatts · 28/02/2019 21:24

Thanks!

OP posts:
Original poster
Mrsmaudwatts · 02/03/2019 14:18

My interview is on Monday so if anyone has any more tips, let me know! Nerves are setting in!

OP posts:
CentralPerkMug · 05/03/2019 16:48

How did it go?

Original poster
Mrsmaudwatts · 05/03/2019 17:58

I have no idea! It was really informal. Lasted about 40 mins, and was just a chat and going over my proposal. I forgot to ask when I would hear back. I expected a real grilling!

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Original poster
Mrsmaudwatts · 09/04/2019 11:42

I got it! I bloody got it!! Really can't believe it. I'm in a slight panic about how hard it's going to be, people keeping asking me why I'm doing it, with a complete baffled look, which isn't helping. But I'm also really excited too. Thanks for all your advice 💐

OP posts:
SarahAndQuack · 09/04/2019 14:28

Oh, congratulations! I clicked on this thread not having seen it before, so it is lovely to read through to the end and see you're in.

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