Attire for interview weekend?

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quentin4

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Does anyone have clothing suggestions for non-interview events during interview weekend? Obviously a suit is appropriate for the actual interview day, but what about dinner the night before, pseudo-"social" events, etc? Are nice pants and a sweater OK? What about being picked up at the airport by a grad student - can I be more casual then or is it all business from the get-go? I don't want to come off as stuffy, but I don't want to seem unprofessional, either. Any advice from those who've been there? Thanks!
 
quentin4 said:
Does anyone have clothing suggestions for non-interview events during interview weekend? Obviously a suit is appropriate for the actual interview day, but what about dinner the night before, pseudo-"social" events, etc? Are nice pants and a sweater OK? What about being picked up at the airport by a grad student - can I be more casual then or is it all business from the get-go? I don't want to come off as stuffy, but I don't want to seem unprofessional, either. Any advice from those who've been there? Thanks!
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It is probably better to overdress than underdress. I would say just wear the black shoes, dress pants, and dress shirt. It is formal enough for most events but not so formal that people would think that you look odd. I think in situations like that, you would to look professional.
 
Speaking as a current graduate student who often interacts with applicants, I think that casual is fine. Clearly no ripped jeans or inappropriate clothing (too much cleavage) but slacks and a sweater would be fine. Jeans are fine. I am far more interested in your personality and your fit with the lab than I am in what you wear to the party or when I pick you up at the airport.
 
emotgrad said:
Speaking as a current graduate student who often interacts with applicants, I think that casual is fine. Clearly no ripped jeans or inappropriate clothing (too much cleavage) but slacks and a sweater would be fine. Jeans are fine. I am far more interested in your personality and your fit with the lab than I am in what you wear to the party or when I pick you up at the airport.
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I agree with the above. I'm a 5th year grad student (so 5 interview weekends if you include my own) - and I can safely say that decent denim and a sweater is totally fine for non-interview days. Having that said, my Clinical program is fairly casual overall. To be honest, so long as it's not over the top, it won't really matter much (I can't recall anything that anyone has worn, and I'm fairly fashion sensitive).

And for the love of gawd people - wear some color on interview day! All the gray and/or black suits with white shirts are making us look like funeral directors, or waiters, you choose. 🙂
 
For the social evening, I'd pick out either really nice jeans or good pants, and a very nice sweater or a collared shirt. And for god's sake, wear decent shoes. Although my school too is pretty casual, I don't know that that's true everywhere, so I'd really lean more toward nice pants than jeans.

Color on interview day: I was wearing my top choice's team colors on my suit, shirt, and tie when I interviewed there. I'm sure it didn't affect my getting in directly, but it did make a veeeeeeery easy icebreaker 🙂

I'll second the no cleavage thing. Especially on interview day. People will talk forever.
 
Yes, we have had quite a few interview days and the only people who stand out are the ones wearing provocative clothing to the non-interview events - so that would be the main thing to avoid. 😀
 
quentin4 said:
Does anyone have clothing suggestions for non-interview events during interview weekend? Obviously a suit is appropriate for the actual interview day, but what about dinner the night before, pseudo-"social" events, etc? Are nice pants and a sweater OK? What about being picked up at the airport by a grad student - can I be more casual then or is it all business from the get-go? I don't want to come off as stuffy, but I don't want to seem unprofessional, either. Any advice from those who've been there? Thanks!
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LOL, for the girls... Mini skirts are a sure fire winner. For the guys, get out those scissors and make some jean shorts. Leather is always in style, and don't forget that making a statement in a latex top (girls or guys) is a popular trend.

You get extra points for visible tattoos and piercings that scream, "I'm an individual, Dammit!!!"

I would say use common sense, but really, that doesn't work out so well.

Mark
 
Markp said:
LOL, for the girls... Mini skirts are a sure fire winner. For the guys, get out those scissors and make some jean shorts. Leather is always in style, and don't forget that making a statement in a latex top (girls or guys) is a popular trend.

You get extra points for visible tattoos and piercings that scream, "I'm an individual, Dammit!!!"

I would say use common sense, but really, that doesn't work out so well.

Mark
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I would even go so far as to suggest dying your hair with the school's colors for the interview and tshirts with inappropriate sayings for casual events. Hey, you may not get accepted but at least you'll be famous...for being an idiot.

Cosign on the common sense bit but common sense is not too common!

Peace.😎
 
For one of my schools, there is the possibility that I will be doing one interview on one day, and then the bulk of my interviews on the next day. Question being, does it look super tacky to wear the same suit both days? Have another suit? Same suit but different shirt underneath? Blazer and nice pants? p.s. I'm a girl. (Does that even make a difference? Who knows. Just thought I'd add more information.)
 
Srbpsych said:
For one of my schools, there is the possibility that I will be doing one interview on one day, and then the bulk of my interviews on the next day. Question being, does it look super tacky to wear the same suit both days? Have another suit? Same suit but different shirt underneath? Blazer and nice pants? p.s. I'm a girl. (Does that even make a difference? Who knows. Just thought I'd add more information.)
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I would say you definitely don't need 2 suits. Either same suit different shirt, or slacks & nice blazer will do just fine. I just interviewed for internships and wore nice slacks, shirt w/ collar, and blazer. At the end of the day, dress professional, but do it in a way that makes you feel most like yourself..
 
For the social events, you can't go wrong with khaki. Try not to overthink it. That part isn't as scary as it seems. The "casual" (or not) nature of every program is different, so I'd hesitate to show up in jeans, unless someone has explicitly told you that you should. I'd say, think business casual.
 
Hi everyone, i have an etiquette question here. When you receive interview invites via email, do you reply to the sender (esp if it is your POI?) If so, what do you write? Is a quick, "Thank you for the interview invitation, i look forward to meeting you and speaking further about your research" good enough or do you write more? How personal go you get? How professional do you try to keep it?

Thanks!! 🙂
 
ClinicalGal:

I just write something along the lines of what you wrote, except for the part of 'looking forward to to discussing their research'. That sounds a bit like you're trying too hard. Besides, you'll be discussing your research ideas too, if not more.

Re: attire. Every faculty person that I've asked about this has advised strongly against wearing suits for the interview.

Personally, I'd be suspicious of what a person is trying to hide if they are overdressed.
 
Seriously? The people up there are saying to wear a suit.

Ahhh, my head hurts x_x
 
dd123 said:
ClinicalGal:

I just write something along the lines of what you wrote, except for the part of 'looking forward to to discussing their research'. That sounds a bit like you're trying too hard. Besides, you'll be discussing your research ideas too, if not more.

Re: attire. Every faculty person that I've asked about this has advised strongly against wearing suits for the interview.

Personally, I'd be suspicious of what a person is trying to hide if they are overdressed.
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DD-- Perhaps you're at one of the more casual programs, but I'd be careful. I went to two Interview Days last year, and at both about 90% of applicants were wearing suits. (Incidentally, 8% were wearing nice business-casual, and one guy was in jeans). Suits are the norm, and are what is expected. If you have a suit, or can reasonably afford one, wear it to the interview. If not, going with nice business casual (i.e., basically a suit sans jacket) shouldn't hurt your chances.

Also, if you happen to wear a suit to an interview and end up overdressed, you can always take off the jacket. Conversely, if you wear khakis to an interview where everyone else is wearing suits, there's really not much you can do but hope the faculty understand that you're taking this seriously, despite your attire.

You can probably ignore this advice for your current institution, since the faculty there said not to wear a suit-- but be careful if you interview elsewhere.
 
Is it okay if my suit has a skirt instead of pants? Aside from that I'll be freezing, I mean 😉
 
thewesternsky said:
I went to two Interview Days last year, and at both about 90% of applicants were wearing suits. (Incidentally, 8% were wearing nice business-casual, and one guy was in jeans). Suits are the norm, and are what is expected. If you have a suit, or can reasonably afford one, wear it to the interview. If not, going with nice business casual (i.e., basically a suit sans jacket) shouldn't hurt your chances.
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Some more thoughts... regardless of whether these suit numbers are true across the board, doesn't mean you have to follow. (Unless you're much more comfortable as a follower). There has been some migration to gray/black suits for these interviews, and the faculty I've talked to think it's unnecessary. I also do not agree that it's "expected". To be honest, it doesn't matter that much! Of course don't wear jeans to your interview (duh) - but slacks/skirt, a nice collared shirt or turtle neck, a blazer -- this will NOT in any way hurt your chances. Do you really think the POI is going to choose someone based on suit versus no suit? Absolutely not! Do you already have a suit that you like and want to wear, then go for it!

There's been talk of khakis as well. If you don't wear khakis in your real life, I would not recommend them for interview weekend. We want to see you! (yes, maybe not stained t-shirt, torn jeans you) but YOU. Dark denim can look just as nice as khakis if paired with a nice shirt. This is not a corporate interview.

I'm a 5th year clinical phd student - which means I've been through my own set of interviews, plus 4 years on the other side. I also just interviewed for internships, and did not wear a suit. I looked very professional, and also felt like myself. A conservative dress, nice skirt or slacks, blazers... all good options that don't require a $200 suit.

So look professional, try to add a little personality, and don't over think it!
 
Question: for the social event, does the shirt have to be collared? I was thinking dress pants, a sweater, and a nice shirt, but neither the shirt nor the sweater have a collar.
 
I wouldn't worry about whether it has a collar. As long as you look neat and professional (ie, not too provocative) you should be just swell!😀
 
Please be mindful of the weather when selecting your attire for interview day. Although those cute "hooker" heels may show off your killer legs, they may also draw more attention than you want when you slip on the ice and fall on your arse outside. :meanie:
 
paramour said:
Please be mindful of the weather when selecting your attire for interview day. Although those cute "hooker" heels may show off your killer legs, they may also draw more attention than you want when you slip on the ice and fall on your arse outside. :meanie:
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I feel weird saying this as a male, but you should also keep in mind that you may be walking long distances on campus or department tours. I had a friend who barely made it through because of the heels she wore. 🙂
 
I don't have a suit to wear for interview day. But I was thinking about a nice pair of grey slacks and a light blue collared shirt, with a wool pea coat. All the places I'm interviewing will be fairly cold and at least this will keep me warm during any kind of outside tour. Does this ensemble sound o.k.?

What do you think 👍 or 👎
 
wkupmaggie - I think that sounds fine. You may be the only person not in a suit but I do not think anyone will judge you for it, and that attire sounds great!
 
Hey everyone, I hope interviews are going well!
I have a quick question. I am wearing a classic black suit to the interview and am just curious what type of bag I should bring? I am going to have some papers, notes to look over, and a writing pad. Is a nice black tote ok? Should I have something more professional (leather like ?) Do I need a briefcase type of thing? I really don't know much about this so any help you can provide would be great! Thanks, and good luck!
 
I keep going back and forth over what to wear when. The interview is 2 days (first day is half-day, meeting with everyone and maybe a professor the first day then full day of interviews the next day). I have one suit and another outfit with black pants and a nice sweater. Do you think it is better to wear the suit to the first day orientation and interview (a good first impression) or the second day which is a full day and more interview intensive? Also, there is a casual dinner the first night which I know I will change for, but there is a more formal (not too formal though) social on the second night. Is there a need to change from interview clothes to "evening clothes" for a social? 🙄

PS: not trying to advertise or anything, but Anne Taylor has their suits majorly on sale right now- plus you can go online and print out a 20% off coupon ahead of time which is nice 😉
 
psychcavy said:
I keep going back and forth over what to wear when. The interview is 2 days (first day is half-day, meeting with everyone and maybe a professor the first day then full day of interviews the next day). I have one suit and another outfit with black pants and a nice sweater. Do you think it is better to wear the suit to the first day orientation and interview (a good first impression) or the second day which is a full day and more interview intensive? Also, there is a casual dinner the first night which I know I will change for, but there is a more formal (not too formal though) social on the second night. Is there a need to change from interview clothes to "evening clothes" for a social? 🙄

I bought both a skirt and pants to go with my suit. Maybe you could wear the pants one day and the skirt the next? The other outfit you described sounds really nice too! You probably don't need to change outfits too much. You could also wear a pretty shirt underneath the suit jacket and take it off for the social. Regardless, I am sure you'll look very professional!
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For the one interview I've been at so far, no one wore suits for the 1st 1/2 day of events. People generally wore trouser pants and sweaters. The first 1/2 day consisted of tours, a reception, and a dinner with faculty and students. Most people wore suits the second day for the "official" interviews.
 
Thank you both for your advice! I think I'll do the suit on the second day 🙂
 
nl2008 said:
Hey everyone, I hope interviews are going well!
I have a quick question. I am wearing a classic black suit to the interview and am just curious what type of bag I should bring? I am going to have some papers, notes to look over, and a writing pad. Is a nice black tote ok? Should I have something more professional (leather like ?) Do I need a briefcase type of thing? I really don't know much about this so any help you can provide would be great! Thanks, and good luck!
Click to expand...

I've always thought that a briefcase looked over-eager or over-the-top. If you're male or female, a folded portfolio would work. If you're female, a purse designed to hold a laptop (with papers in that place instead) would work great.
 
So, earlier in this thread I dismissed the need to wear a suit, suggesting that it'd be overkill and perhaps even look suspicious as 'trying to hard.'

After talking to more people who were involved in clinical departments, I was told that a blazer and dress pants would be required. So to be safe I picked up a blazer and dress pants. No tie, open collar.

At the interview, I was by far the most dressed-up person there. One fellow was even wearing jeans and an untucked button-down shirt. No suits. One lass was wearing Ug boots. The director of the program was dressed like a farm-hand.

So make of that what you will.

This all said, I'm still going to wear my blazer to my next interview.

And for those prone to perspiration (like me), don't forget that anti-perspirant may be better than deodorant. I made that mistake.
 
dd123 said:
So, earlier in this thread I dismissed the need to wear a suit, suggesting that it'd be overkill and perhaps even look suspicious as 'trying to hard.'

After talking to more people who were involved in clinical departments, I was told that a blazer and dress pants would be required. So to be safe I picked up a blazer and dress pants. No tie, open collar.

At the interview, I was by far the most dressed-up person there. One fellow was even wearing jeans and an untucked button-down shirt. No suits. One lass was wearing Ug boots. The director of the program was dressed like a farm-hand.

So make of that what you will.

This all said, I'm still going to wear my blazer to my next interview.

And for those prone to perspiration (like me), don't forget that anti-perspirant may be better than deodorant. I made that mistake.
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This seems like such a relaxed program - the fact that everyone was super casual probably helped put you at ease! Which program is this (if you don't mind sharing?) And thanks for the antiperspirant tip 😉
 
Psyched77 said:
I've always thought that a briefcase looked over-eager or over-the-top. If you're male or female, a folded portfolio would work. If you're female, a purse designed to hold a laptop (with papers in that place instead) would work great.
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That's funny. I did exactly what you suggested (the laptop bag) for my internship interviews. It was fairly small and unobtrusive, and it allowed me to skip a separate purse. Worked well, I think!
 
I used a laptop bag for my interviews as well (for clinical PhD programs, that is). It also works great as a plane carry-on.
 
dd123 said:
At the interview, I was by far the most dressed-up person there. One fellow was even wearing jeans and an untucked button-down shirt. No suits. One lass was wearing Ug boots. The director of the program was dressed like a farm-hand.
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Oh man, I'm so curious... what program was this? (you can PM me if uncomfortable) I've also been a proponent of look professional, but it doesn't necessarily have to be a suit. (I did not wear a suit to my internship interviews and I just found out I matched) 🙂 Anyway, jeans and Ugg boots?.. that I was not expecting!
 
Originally Posted by dd123
At the interview, I was by far the most dressed-up person there. One fellow was even wearing jeans and an untucked button-down shirt. No suits. One lass was wearing Ug boots. The director of the program was dressed like a farm-hand.
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http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=7626072&postcount=7

See my above referenced post regarding, mini skirts and jean shorts. See I was right about the common sense thing. 😛

Mark
 
PsychApplicant said:
I read somewhere that I have to wear stockings..is that true?
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Depends. Are you a guy? If yes, it's optional. Socks, however, are not.

If no, I would say almost certainly (if you're wearing a dress/skirt), depending a bit on climate and culture. In south Florida, I think stockings may be excessive. Almost everywhere else, it's not a bad idea.
 
Hi all! I just have to share that when I interviewed last month, I saw a girl dressed in a gorgeous black suit. Her hair was in this cute bob, her makeup was impeccable, but there was just one problem: she ruined the whole effect by wearing red patent leather stilettos. A couple days later, I saw an article in a fashion mag about using pops of color to make an outfit more trendy and youthful. So, this poor girl was just trying to be distinctive and fun, but she kind of came off as inappropriate. So, I would say when in doubt, be slightly more conservative, but still you!
 
FranklinR said:
Depends. Are you a guy? If yes, it's optional. Socks, however, are not.

If no, I would say almost certainly (if you're wearing a dress/skirt), depending a bit on climate and culture. In south Florida, I think stockings may be excessive. Almost everywhere else, it's not a bad idea.
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I'm a girl.. and I'll be wearing a gray work dress with a beige jacket and beige stilettos.. should I wear stockings..?? I'm in south florida..
 
PsychApplicant said:
I'm a girl.. and I'll be wearing a gray work dress with a beige jacket and beige stilettos.. should I wear stockings..?? I'm in south florida..
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If the school is in south Florida, you could probably get away with not stockings. Ideally, people should notice you, not the way you're dressed.

As an aside:

1. I TOTALLY didn't think you would actually be in South Florida.
2. I'm not a fashion guy. And I'm a guy. So take my advice with at least two grains of salt.
 
PsychApplicant said:
If I'm wearing a work dress should I wear panty hose??
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Look, it couldn't hurt to wear stockings. It probably won't hurt not to either, but wearing them is the safer, more professional bet. I'd do it. The only way I would consider skipping pantyhose with a skirt/dress for something like this is if I weren't showing leg (like a long skirt with nice boots).

Also, keep in mind, that if you are a bit stressed about this now, if you don't wear them, then that might give you something to worry about during the interview, even if it's unrealistic that it's a concern. If you're likely to get anxious, especially if other women show up wearing stockings and you aren't, then I'd advise wearing them mostly for that reason.
 
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