Interview attire

[WelshCob]

I would go with the pants. Vet school interviews are in winter unless you're interviewing for Florida in the middle of our current 80 heat wave wear pants.

I'm not a feminist in ANYWAY and have way to many pencil skirts but if I'm interviewing in a dog eat dog world that's judging me on my intellect I'm wearing pants.

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[adams30]

I know this was mentioned earlier in the thread but I thought I'd ask again. Is it acceptable to wear nail polish (a neutral color)? I feel like I'd be less likely to pick at my nails (bad nervous habit) if they were painted.

Heading to the mall tomorrow to buy a shirt for under my suit jacket and pants, hopefully there will be some good deals to be found.

I think wearing a neutral color to an interview would be okay, something like a nude color or light pink, or even clear. In all the vet school interview attire pages that I read on their websites, they just ask for neatly groomed nails (trimmed, etc).

 

[adams30]

I would go with the pants. Vet school interviews are in winter unless you're interviewing for Florida in the middle of our current 80 heat wave wear pants.

I'm not a feminist in ANYWAY and have way to many pencil skirts but if I'm interviewing in a dog eat dog world that's judging me on my intellect I'm wearing pants.

Thanks. Obviously pants are more comfortable with colder weather but was conflicted with other opinions and the career centers. I just wanted to be sure (sorry everyone I'm nervous)

 

[Minnerbelle]

Thanks. Obviously pants are more comfortable with colder weather but was conflicted with other opinions and the career centers. I just wanted to be sure (sorry everyone I'm nervous)

I've heard that skirts are very much recommended for some very conservative medical schools, law schools, and maybe some financial institutions... but pants are totally fine for vet school (or it was at least for all the places I applied to).

Anyone from some of the conservative vet schools down yonder with your professional points and dress codes have a differing opinion?

 

[adams30]

I've heard that skirts are very much recommended for some very conservative medical schools, law schools, and maybe some financial institutions... but pants are totally fine for vet school (or it was at least for all the places I applied to).

good to know! plus I think that if a vet school doesn't accept someone based on whether they were wearing a skirt or pants with their suit then that is silly.

 

[cowgirla]

I've heard that skirts are very much recommended for some very conservative medical schools, law schools, and maybe some financial institutions... but pants are totally fine for vet school (or it was at least for all the places I applied to).

Anyone from some of the conservative vet schools down yonder with your professional points and dress codes have a differing opinion?

FWIW, I interviewed at Mississippi in pants. And I didn't get rejected.

 

[equineconstant]

I know this was mentioned earlier in the thread but I thought I'd ask again. Is it acceptable to wear nail polish (a neutral color)? I feel like I'd be less likely to pick at my nails (bad nervous habit) if they were painted.

Heading to the mall tomorrow to buy a shirt for under my suit jacket and pants, hopefully there will be some good deals to be found.

I wore a mauve-y sort of color nail polish to my Mizzou interview...and earlier to my mock interview at my school (we were definitely supposed to dress the part), and they didn't say anything. I always have my nails painted! But for an interview I wouldn't wear anything other than a basic pink (as tempting as it is to do purple with gold sparkles for my LSU interview...I figure that's probably a bad idea ).

 

[felinelvr44]

Sorry did not mean to offend. I was just told this by people in the engineering profession but I guess each is different (the skirt more professional thing is not my personal view). I agree I think either works.

Nooooo nooo, you didn't offend me! I just hate that there are still people out there that think a woman should wear a skirt in order to look professional. I know you don't think that!

 

[ShibaMom]

I've heard that skirts are very much recommended for some very conservative medical schools, law schools, and maybe some financial institutions... but pants are totally fine for vet school (or it was at least for all the places I applied to).

Anyone from some of the conservative vet schools down yonder with your professional points and dress codes have a differing opinion?

The suit I wore to my KSU interview last Saturday was a skirt suit. The high for that day was 38 F, and I wore it with my wool coat. However, I am very cold tolerant and the wind wasn't blowing that day.

I saw a mix of both skirts and pants. For job interviews I have worn both skirts and trousers, but then I went to a very conservative college with a skirt-only dress code. I feel more comfortable in a skirt, but do take into consideration the weather. I wore pantyhose but some girls weren't wearing any legwear. If you wear a skirt I do suggest pantyhose. I know, I know, they're a pain in the butt, but I think they're de rigeur. Again, my old conservative mindset.

But by the by, I was accepted into KSU today!

Oh, and the people (3) in my interview panel were wearing khaki pants and nice blouses or a dress shirt and tie.

 

[Jess Monster]

I have a great story regarding interview attire (I think it's great, anyway):

Like a month ago I sat through a two hour "Vet School Interview Essentials Discussion" that some faculty at my undergrad college were putting on - most excruciating two hours of my recent existence.

Half of the time they talked, in great detail, about the do's and don'ts of interview attire. Basically, tattoos are bad, piercings are bad, trendy clothes are bad, being fat is bad, being too thin is bad, painted nails are bad.... etc. Pants on ladies are okay, but they did have to clarify that. Sadly, not joking. All I learned was that, surprise, conservative old people like conservative things and have way too many prevailing prejudices regarding the tastes of younger generations. Mind, blown.

Honestly, it was hard for me to take the rest of the discussion seriously after all that BS, especially the little snide remarks TWO of the presenters made about weight. One presenter didn't like "anorexics" and the other implied that fat people are inherently sloppy or lazy ("...don't look the part...").

I'm a little sad that I didn't have time to fill in the critique at the end. I would have suggested that they all increase their Metamucil dosages. Maybe next time all of that extra fiber could dislodge whatever superficial critter had crawled up and was obviously breeding in their asses. Then I could have signed it "Love, The Fat Chick at the Back."

- End of Story -

 

[nmt]

Oh mmmaann... So they wanted seas of black suits?! Grosss

I hope mine is trendy yet professional. I've been watching a lot of What Not to Wear and have been picking up some hints... although i still felt like a lost little puppy in the stores today.

 

[KCgophervet]

I have a great story regarding interview attire (I think it's great, anyway):

Like a month ago I sat through a two hour "Vet School Interview Essentials Discussion" that some faculty at my undergrad college were putting on - most excruciating two hours of my recent existence.

Half of the time they talked, in great detail, about the do's and don'ts of interview attire. Basically, tattoos are bad, piercings are bad, trendy clothes are bad, being fat is bad, being too thin is bad, painted nails are bad.... etc. Pants on ladies are okay, but they did have to clarify that. Sadly, not joking. All I learned was that, surprise, conservative old people like conservative things and have way too many prevailing prejudices regarding the tastes of younger generations. Mind, blown.

Honestly, it was hard for me to take the rest of the discussion seriously after all that BS, especially the little snide remarks TWO of the presenters made about weight. One presenter didn't like "anorexics" and the other implied that fat people are inherently sloppy or lazy ("...don't look the part...").

I'm a little sad that I didn't have time to fill in the critique at the end. I would have suggested that they all increase their Metamucil dosages. Maybe next time all of that extra fiber could dislodge whatever superficial critter had crawled up and was obviously breeding in their asses. Then I could have signed it "Love, The Fat Chick at the Back."

- End of Story -

As sad and slightly nauseating as this information is, your telling of it just made my night. Props to you and thanks for making me choke on my water

 

[primatevetjess]

My recommendation is to wear a suit. You'll look professional, serious, and it's an investment. But it doesn't have to be black or dark blue, you can still be individual. My suit is light charcoal gray with a pink pinstripe, and I wore it with a light pink shirt underneath. I stood out in a group of nothing but black, black, more black, and some navy.

As far as skirt vs. pants - it doesn't matter. I promise. They are equally professional, so wear what you're most comfortable in. You will not be rejected from vet school because you chose pants over a skirt.

All of my tattoos were covered by my suit (only my face and hands were visible...), but I'm not sure how I'd feel if they weren't. I will say that I recently went all over the country doing residency interviews, and for the candidate dinners I decided to wear what I wanted, which meant my tattoos were showing. I don't think it mattered in the slightest.

Hair - use common sense. As long as it's neat, it's fine. I think I wore mine down, but up works as well. Just don't have a messy ponytail, it makes it look like you don't care. Wear shoes that are comfortable. Period. Uncomfortable shoes are distracting! A conservative nail polish is fine - nude or light pink.

 

[juliyav]

What you can actually walk in! But I would say no more than 3".

What I can walk in can't be my deciding factor I'm short so I can walk on stilts if I had to! Going shoe shopping sometime soon, my low heels are sandals

 

[Minnerbelle]

Hair - use common sense. As long as it's neat, it's fine. I think I wore mine down, but up works as well. Just don't have a messy ponytail, it makes it look like you don't care.

I saw a few girls on interviews who came in with suits but had very unkempt hair. It looked like they were playing dress-up, not going in for an interview for professional school. So whatever you do, make sure it looks professional. Brushing goes a long way.... just sayin

 

[juliyav]

I know this was mentioned earlier in the thread but I thought I'd ask again. Is it acceptable to wear nail polish (a neutral color)? I feel like I'd be less likely to pick at my nails (bad nervous habit) if they were painted.

Heading to the mall tomorrow to buy a shirt for under my suit jacket and pants, hopefully there will be some good deals to be found.

I plan on doing a french manicure, it looks natural but groomed. I don't see why french or very light, toned down/sheer colors would be an issue.

 

[Kpowell14]

My nails were a light grayish brownish neutral color for my Mizzou interview. I think they looked just fine, what my interviewers thought I don't know, but surely it wasn't anything negative lol

 

[primatevetjess]

I plan on doing a french manicure, it looks natural but groomed. I don't see why french or very light, toned down/sheer colors would be an issue.

My personal opinion is to not do a french manicure, but I may have a skewed opinion. And it definitely doesn't look natural.

 

[adams30]

Nooooo nooo, you didn't offend me! I just hate that there are still people out there that think a woman should wear a skirt in order to look professional. I know you don't think that!

glad to know I didn't . and agreed!

 

[gumtree]

I wore pantyhose but some girls weren't wearing any legwear. If you wear a skirt I do suggest pantyhose. I know, I know, they're a pain in the butt, but I think they're de rigeur. Again, my old conservative mindset.

Chiming in to say that panty hose are a must if you are going with a skirt. Not only will they keep you warmer if it's chilly that day, but they help you look more professional and put together.

I really debated about whether to go with a skirt suit or pant suit. I've been told by many business professionals that a skirt in a flattering color (black, gray, tan) that is knee length and not too tight is favorable. Even if you're a flats kind of a girl, a small heel will lengthen your leg line and make the skirt look more flattering on your body. When I was trying on skirts I could NOT find any that looked good on my goofy pear-shape until someone at the store suggested I try them on with heels. Still, I went with a pant suit because 1) I didn't want to freeze to death at my interview 2) I didn't want to wear heels and 3) PANTY HOSE ARE THE WORST.

By the way, this is my favorite thread. I hope everyone has some snazzy outfits put together for their interviews!! Now I just need to prepare for the actual interview part..

 

[LoveMyHotDog]

I have two interviews coming up in the greater lakes area (OSU and Minnesota) and I was just wondering how much time is spent outside for these tours?

I was hoping to wear a skirt suit (I've always felt more comfy in skirts) with some thick panty hose. I was planning on doing the tour and information session portions in my black ugg-like boots and then change into my interview shoes (black pumps). Sound reasonable??

 

[LetItSnow]

I have two interviews coming up in the greater lakes area (OSU and Minnesota) and I was just wondering how much time is spent outside for these tours?

I was hoping to wear a skirt suit (I've always felt more comfy in skirts) with some thick panty hose. I was planning on doing the tour and information session portions in my black ugg-like boots and then change into my interview shoes (black pumps). Sound reasonable??

Can't speak for OSU, but in MN you will be outside as part of the tour for only about 30 yards....

That said ... part of your time will be spent going over to the Equine Center. If you plan to walk there from CVM it's three blocks or so. If you're paying to park in the parking ramp (I'd do it for an important day like this) you really only walk 50 yards or so from the parking ramp to CVM.

 

[lemurlove]

Do you really recommend wearing a suit coat or can I just wear suit pants and a nice shirt?

 

[wildcatj]

Do you really recommend wearing a suit coat or can I just wear suit pants and a nice shirt?

I would wear the jacket too.

 

[LetItSnow]

Do you really recommend wearing a suit coat or can I just wear suit pants and a nice shirt?

I'd wear the coat, but odds are pretty good it won't matter. That said, you've worked hard to get the interview - you really want to go with "pretty good" odds, or do you just want to throw on the coat?

 

[Marsala]

I don't post very often (just lurk sometimes) but I feel this needs to be said/ranted. I helped with the interviews at Western, and I think that for the most part people hit the mark as far as interview attire. There are some, however, that show up looking like they are interviewing to be...um... a worker at a club or an escort service. I realize that some people may not have had guidance as far as what is professional and what is not, but have someone proof your outfit before you interview. Stripper shoes don't really translate well into interview attire (or business casual). Neither does a really, really low cut top.

The other thing I'd like to add is that it's really rude when people sit in back during a presentation and text away (with their parent(s)!), looking bored and disinterested. I know that I noticed and that my classmates who were working today also noticed, so I'm going to bet money that the faculty noticed, too. I also know that yes, the presentation is boring. But it's 20 minutes! I'm sure none of the SDNers would do that sort of thing, but tell your pre-vet friends that are not on this forum.

Rooting for all of the the c/o 2017 applicants! Good luck!

 

[gumtree]

There are some, however, that show up looking like they are interviewing to be...um... a worker at a club or an escort service. I realize that some people may not have had guidance as far as what is professional and what is not, but have someone proof your outfit before you interview. Stripper shoes don't really translate well into interview attire (or business casual). Neither does a really, really low cut top.

Wow, so true! I saw a girl at my interview last week who wore 4" stilettos for her interview and the black slit on her skirt was really high. YIKES.

 

[cs5910]

Every interview Ive gone to, I've seen someone wearing jeans Come onnnn people, we are trying to become DOCTORS!! Jeans are never professional...

 

[cs5910]

On a side note, I've had about 20 people (including doctors) over the last year tell me that I will never be accepted unless I dye my hair dark... They all said I would never be taken seriously or make it past an interview with blond hair. Proved them wrong!!

 

[wildcatj]

On a side note, I've had about 20 people (including doctors) over the last year tell me that I will never be accepted unless I dye my hair dark... They all said I would never be taken seriously or make it past an interview with blond hair. Proved them wrong!!

That is a way bizarre statement. Especially since it seems like a lot of blonde women are in vet school. I'm blonde, I got in. Don't feel like I beat any odds on that front though. Weird!

 

[smm482]

I don't post very often (just lurk sometimes) but I feel this needs to be said/ranted. I helped with the interviews at Western, and I think that for the most part people hit the mark as far as interview attire. There are some, however, that show up looking like they are interviewing to be...um... a worker at a club or an escort service. I realize that some people may not have had guidance as far as what is professional and what is not, but have someone proof your outfit before you interview. Stripper shoes don't really translate well into interview attire (or business casual). Neither does a really, really low cut top.

I am interviewing at Western this Saturday and will be wearing a skirt suit. I'm not sure what the standard is on pantyhose in Southern California. I figured I should wear them to be formal, but didn't want to come across as too uptight. Thoughts? The notion of warm weather is really hard to wrap my head around in the frigid north east! Also, I'm tall so I will most likely be wearing flats. Thanks!

 

[ShibaMom]

I am interviewing at Western this Saturday and will be wearing a skirt suit. I'm not sure what the standard is on pantyhose in Southern California. I figured I should wear them to be formal, but didn't want to come across as too uptight. Thoughts? The notion of warm weather is really hard to wrap my head around in the frigid north east! Also, I'm tall so I will most likely be wearing flats. Thanks!

Western is in Pomona, which is in LA County, at the base of several foothills. It is about 35 miles from the shore but the climate is still mild. The evenings and early mornings, however, can be quite chilly. It will definitely be a respite from the chilly NE, and while California is more relaxed I'd still wear some nude/sheer pantyhose.

Good luck with your interview!

 

[RinTinTin]

I just used the "steam your suit in the bathroom by turning a hot shower on" trick after a long day of traveling. It worked seamlessly. Thanks, guys!

 

[twelvetigers]

On a side note, I've had about 20 people (including doctors) over the last year tell me that I will never be accepted unless I dye my hair dark... They all said I would never be taken seriously or make it past an interview with blond hair. Proved them wrong!!

Abney would surely punch these people right in the throat.

 

[hygebeorht]

I'm not a feminist in ANYWAY

You don't believe men and women are equals and should be treated equally? 'Cause that's all a feminist is. If you think women are inferior to men, then you're not a feminist.

I do agree with you on the pants, though. I love me a pencil skirt, but it's also easier to go on the little tours they give you when you have freedom of movement.

Banana Republic sells GREAT tailored suits, and if you sign up for their email list, you can catch them on 40% off sales. They have tall sizes, which is important for the ladies who are hard to fit.

If you're easy to fit off the rack, there are lots of options. A cute vintage suit will help you to stand out among the crowd, too.

 

[hygebeorht]

I am interviewing at Western this Saturday and will be wearing a skirt suit. I'm not sure what the standard is on pantyhose in Southern California. I figured I should wear them to be formal, but didn't want to come across as too uptight. Thoughts? The notion of warm weather is really hard to wrap my head around in the frigid north east! Also, I'm tall so I will most likely be wearing flats. Thanks!

I'm tall too, and I wore 2-3" heels. You are tall, so WORK it! It helps you stand out, and heels show your confidence!

If you're having a hard time with the idea of bare legs, maybe choose a subtle darker tight? Nude hosiery seems pretty frumpy and fusty, but I did see people wearing it at a few interviews. But only a very few. You won't be alone with bare legs.

Or maybe black tights to match your skirt (if it's black) and some black heeled boots? It'll lengthen your leg line instead of chopping you to bits if you have one color from the waist down.

Just ideas!

 

[Marsala]

I am interviewing at Western this Saturday and will be wearing a skirt suit. I'm not sure what the standard is on pantyhose in Southern California. I figured I should wear them to be formal, but didn't want to come across as too uptight. Thoughts? The notion of warm weather is really hard to wrap my head around in the frigid north east! Also, I'm tall so I will most likely be wearing flats. Thanks!

I think that it would be better to wear them. You won't look uptight, and it's 'only' going to be 71 on Saturday. So you won't be uncomfortable. Flats are fine, I think heels look more polished (as long as they aren't stripper shoes, lol), but both are good. Good luck! PM me if you have any questions about the school, curriculum, or whatever.

edit: just read the post by hygebeorht. Definitely agree with the idea of tights (sheer tights) vs actual pantyhose, and also the idea of heels instead of flats if you are tall. I've had tall friends try to wear 'dressy' flats and it just makes them look dumpy.

 

[BlackDog17]

What are everyone's thoughts on shoes for women? I've heard that showing any significant part of your foot/toes is considered unprofessional. The only closed-toe dress shoes I have need to be worn with socks, which would limit me to wearing pants for my interview and I think I'd prefer to wear a pencil skirt. I suppose I could always go out and buy new shoes if I absolutely have to, but . . .blah.

Also, are tights/panty hose absolutely necessary? I personally HATE them, and I feel like bare legs are more the fashion nowadays anyway . . .

 

[macita183]

What are everyone's thoughts on shoes for women? I've heard that showing any significant part of your foot/toes is considered unprofessional. The only closed-toe dress shoes I have need to be worn with socks, which would limit me to wearing pants for my interview and I think I'd prefer to wear a pencil skirt. I suppose I could always go out and buy new shoes if I absolutely have to, but . . .blah.

Also, are tights/panty hose absolutely necessary? I personally HATE them, and I feel like bare legs are more the fashion nowadays anyway . . .

When I interviewed I saw a fair number of girls wearing open toe shows (temperature was in the 50s). I have also been told that closed toes shoes are viewed as more professional, so I bought a pair of wedges at Famous Footwear (as I have to wear some kind of heel and all my other heels were open toed or in my opinion, too high to wear to an interview). I figured it would be better to be safe and go for a closed toe. That being said, as long as the rest of you looks professional I wouldn't think it matters that much

In my opinion, yes tights/panty hose are necessary. I hate them (hence why I wore a pant suit) but I think it comes across more professional. There were several girls I saw that had bare legs and I didn't think they looked as put together as girls that did have tights/hose on. Not sure how much all of this counts in the eyes of interviewers but I think anything you can do to make yourself look the part can only be a plus (you can go to the bathroom right afterwards and pull them off if they are that terrible)

 

[Minnerbelle]

Yeah dudettes, if you're gonna have legs showing, i'd wear pantyhose. Even if you shave, goosebumpy pores don't make you look super professional, esp if you have to tour outside or if there's a draft or something. You can do it! It's just for a day.

 

[kakurubird]

Yeah dudettes, if you're gonna have legs showing, i'd wear pantyhose. Even if you shave, goosebumpy pores don't make you look super professional, esp if you have to tour outside or if there's a draft or something. You can do it! It's just for a day.

Yeah and spend the few dollars to get a new pair. Runs are super bad and you don't want to be the awkward one with the stretched-out and falling down pantyhose.

 

[BlackDog17]

Yeah and spend the few dollars to get a new pair. Runs are super bad and you don't want to be the awkward one with the stretched-out and falling down pantyhose.

Problem is, I don't seem to be able to make it through a whole day without winding up with runs.

 

[that redhead]

What are everyone's thoughts on shoes for women? I've heard that showing any significant part of your foot/toes is considered unprofessional. The only closed-toe dress shoes I have need to be worn with socks, which would limit me to wearing pants for my interview and I think I'd prefer to wear a pencil skirt. I suppose I could always go out and buy new shoes if I absolutely have to, but . . .blah.

Also, are tights/panty hose absolutely necessary? I personally HATE them, and I feel like bare legs are more the fashion nowadays anyway . . .

It's really freaking cold up here...I know dress pants aren't exactly the warmest but its a heck of a lot warmer than a pencil skirt and bare legs. I think panty hose with a skirt no matter what, anyway- vet school interviews aren't about what's in, it's about what's professional.

 

[hygebeorht]

But also try to be comfortable in your interview getup. NO ONE likes to feel like they look like they are playing dress-up in mommy's work clothes. If the hose question is messing with your mind, then wear tights or pants. Just keep it profesh!

 

[gumtree]

But also try to be comfortable in your interview getup. NO ONE likes to feel like they look like they are playing dress-up in mommy's work clothes. If the hose question is messing with your mind, then wear tights or pants. Just keep it profesh!

This is great advice. You want to look and feel like yourself, but just the most professional version of yourself! I for one and now a HUGE fan of the pant suit--I feel so confident and classy in my interview outfit.

I just cut my hair into a long bob (a lob, if you will ) after having long hair for years. It feels great, and I think it might help with my interview because everyone keeps saying how much older and more mature I look now. Has anyone else made a significant change to their appearance before their interview?

 

[BlackDog17]

Has anyone else made a significant change to their appearance before their interview?

I would be afraid to. If it comes out looking awful and you wind up feeling super self-conscious about it, that could be really detrimental to your interview performance.

 

[twelvetigers]

Has anyone else made a significant change to their appearance before their interview?

I went from bright pink hair to brown hair...

 

[wolfspeaker]

Problem is, I don't seem to be able to make it through a whole day without winding up with runs.

Awesome thing about that, pantyhose packages are small. They fit right in you purse. Go in the bathroom and change them quick.

 

[hygebeorht]

Has anyone else made a significant change to their appearance before their interview?

I got a haircut but it wasn't drastic. I love putting my hair up but it wasn't long enough so I needed a shaped cut (not the weird growing-out stuff I had going on).

If you have the cash and enjoy getting your nails did (ladies or gents!) a manicure can make you feel like a million bucks.

I think by far the most important feature of an interview outfit is that it makes you feel like you own the town. Confidence is key for a great interview, and it's easier to be self-possessed if you know you look correct. If you choose something to wear because someone else says it's a great idea but you feel super self-conscious, you're not doing yourself a favor.

For me that's a well-tailored pantsuit with tall heels and of course perfect hair, nails, and makeup. Having something that pops on your outfit can make you memorable, like an unusual piece of jewelry, bright lipstick, or a daring tie. Just keep it to one thing and you should feel tasteful. Oh, and don't forget good-luck totems that remind you of the people who love you and have supported you in this journey. True story: I wore knee-high purple unicorn socks to one of my interviews. You'd never know because I was wearing boots and pants, but the important thing was that I knew

 

[SurgeryDawg25]

I'm a male and have an interview tomorrow, and am debating what I want to wear. I have a really nice pinstripe suit as a backup plan, but I really wanted to wear a pair of almost royalish blue pants with a gray blazer. I don't know if that would be too much, but the pants fit my personality and style. I don't know if I should go with the conservative approach with the boring suit, or wear what I had initially planned on wearing. I just don't want to lose my chance based on my outfit. Opinions?