The end of January
signals the beginning of the interview season for genetic counseling graduate programs.
We know the interview process can be stressful and some of our first year students
want to share advice for this year’s applicants. We wish applicants the best of
luck with their interviews!
Everyone will tell you
to be yourself during the interviews, but it is truly the best advice. Not only
will the directors see your genuineness, but you’ll get a better sense of
whether Pitt’s program is a fit for you as well. You’re interviewing the
directors just as much as they’re interviewing you--you want to go somewhere
where you’ll be happy for two years! Also, if you’re invited to interview, then
your grades and background are impressive enough for you to be a student of the
program. Don’t compare yourself to other applicants who are interviewing on the
same day as you. You made it! This is the time to let your personality shine
and find out whether you can see yourself at Pitt.
-Kaylee Williams
Don’t worry about how
many interviews you get compared to another applicant, who has heard back from
what school, etc. All it takes is one school to match. Focus on what you like
about the program, what you don’t like, and whether or not it seems like a good
fit for you academically, socially, and financially.
- Megan Czekaslki
Find a nice outfit to wear to the interview and have it tailored. Not only do you look more professional, it’s a great way to give yourself a confidence boost! Keep in mind that it’s okay to be nervous - all of the other applicants are too. Talk about your experiences with passion. Your enthusiasm will help you stand out as a candidate.
- Ravella Raker
Make sure to take some time to enjoy yourself and relax! I treated myself with a trip to Phipps Botanical Gardens the day before my interview.
-Chelsey Walsh
-Madeline Reding
Even if it isn’t solely
genetics based, talk about what you’re passionate about. The passion will shine
through and that will be what sets you apart as an interviewee. Also, make sure
to bring questions to ask, show your interest in the program and the
individuals with whom you interview.
When you’re in the
interview, answer the questions to the best of your abilities, but don’t be
afraid to say that you’re not sure of an answer. You’re not a genetic counselor
yet, so they don’t expect you to be able to answer everything perfectly. For
some questions, there can be many answers so don’t get hung up on finding a
perfect answer. Be thoughtful in your responses, and just be yourself!
-Michael Gosky
The two things I think
are most important are: 1) get a good night’s sleep the couple nights leading
up to your interview - not just the night before, even though that is helpful,
too - (I always feel like I’m most tired the second day after not getting at
least my full 7 ½ hours) and 2) don’t be afraid to take a moment to think about
how you want to answer a question, especially if it’s scenario-based. It’s
better to take the time and show that you truly want to give the best answer
you can, than to try to rush to give an answer that you don’t feel good about!
-Trinity Sprague
When preparing for the
interview, try to think through some of the answers to personal questions you
think might be asked. Just have a general idea as to how you would answer without
sounding scripted. Be yourself and your passion and genuineness will show
through. For scenario-based questions looking over the NSGC position statements
can be helpful but of course, your answer does not have to be perfect. Lastly,
remember that you are interviewing the school’s program too, so do not be
afraid to ask questions. It is a nerve wracking, exciting time and it’s worth
it in the end. You are going to do great!
-Haley Kulas
Congratulations on your
interview! At this stage, the program has already decided you are a qualified
applicant and now is the time to let your personality show. The individuals who
interview you are looking for genuine and thoughtful responses so it is okay to
pause and collect your thoughts before answering a question. I found it helpful
to review my application materials and the program website the night before my
interview, as well as consider my response to questions regarding my journey to
genetic counseling and my background. While it is important to prepare, try to
find a balance so that you are confident without sounding scripted in your
responses.
The best piece of advice
I received before interviewing was to engage with current students and the
other applicants in between interviews and during meals. The programs are
looking to put together a cohesive class but more importantly, this will help
you get a better feel for the program’s atmosphere and personality. Remember,
you are interviewing the program as much as they are interviewing you, so it is
important to figure out what you consider a pro and con for each program.
Interview season can be overwhelming so take a deep breath - you’ve got this!
Good luck!
-Kaitlyn Scola
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