do people ever interview with a portfolio?!

[sunflower79]

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Hi SDNers,

This should go under the "parents are funny in this process" thread, but my dad has recently suggested that I put together a portfolio to show ppl visually all my research and activities. Here I'm already thinking it might detract from the interview itself and the process of getting-to-know-me, but I thought I'd give the idea a chance to prove its salt. What do you all think of the idea? Have you even heard of such a thing?

cheers,
sunflower79

 

[Jacobim]

I think that may be a bit much...

 

[xaelia]

It's been so long since I submitted my AMCAS that I've taken a small packet of research materials and such to each of my last few schools, but just to add to my file, not to explicitly discuss in my interviews. After the interview, if we had a discussion of my research activities, I included some of the materials along with my thank you note.

 

[arana]

at first I thought you ment an art port.
I took my art Port. because my paintings always came up at my interviews. Im a self-taught painter so when they saw my work I think they really liked it. But, in your case I really can't see how it can hurt you. Personally, I think they might like how much you enjoy your work. my 0.02$😛

 

[e-spin]

Maybe not a portfolio but I would bring an abstract or something to add to your file especially if it has been awhile since youve submitted AMCAS and secondaries, like Xaelia said.
Chances are your research has or is going to come up in the interview, but unless you are applying to an MSTP probably wont be the main focus. If you research is dense both technically and conceptually it may not hurt to have a key figure or graph or two if it will help you explain it.
Good LUck!
Spin

 

[coffeespoon]

I got routinely asked about my research, and I found it helpful to have a picture or two on hand (I did a lot of research in organic chemistry). I didn't go overboard with reaction schemes or anything, but it was a great help to have a visual, especially with some things that were kind of hard to describe with just words.

 

[CamelJockey]

I brought along a small notebook with supporting material for anything I mentioned in my AMCAS, just in case I was challenged on anything. I did not bring anything additional to 'add' to my file. Nobody every asked what it was or asked for more details on any of my AMCAS entries. After going through all the interviews I think its safe to say they are trying to meet the person.