Grad School Open House, should I attend?

[SuperKirby]

The school I am applying to has a Graduate Information Open House. Basically, the purpose is to meet staff, other applicants, and to get to know the school better. It is not required to attend, but they did send me an invitation letter (as I am sure they sent one to all applicants and current students).

However, I live about 1,300 miles from this school I applied to. It would be really difficult for me to attend this session (due to work, volunteer hours, and current pre reqs still taking). Now, if this was an official PT interview, I would go no questions ask. Any feedback to what I should do? TIA people.

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[callmecrazy]

I wouldn't make the trip for a university-wide graduate program open house. They are usually pretty general, and sometimes you won't even have access to the places or people that you actually WANT to see. Assuming they don't do interviews (bc you would see the school then) you may want to plan a visit, but I would arrange it directly with the PT program. You can set up time to meet with admissions/fin aid and anyone else you want to meet, get a tour specific to the PT facilities, and probably sit in on a class if you'd like. A visit like that is going to be a lot more helpful to you in the end.

 

[artizzle]

If you think you are going to get an interview, wait until then. If you don't think you are going to get one, then try to get your name out there as much as possible.

 

[Lizarde]

I wouldn't go unless it is convenient. I've been to 3 open houses at schools nearby. Some were more helpful than others as far as explaining the application process and giving a chance to ask questions. They aren't going to give you bonus points on your application for attending.

 

[truthseeker]

It depends on what you particular skills are. some people have amazing social skills. They can schmooze with anyone and get a chance to dazzle people in positions to accept them or not before the pressure of the actual interview.

Some people just have skills with a bo staff and drawing Ligers, bred for their skills in magic.

If you are the former, consider it, if you are a wall flower and wear snowmobile boots to class then skip it.

 

[lee9786]

It depends on what you particular skills are. some people have amazing social skills. They can schmooze with anyone and get a chance to dazzle people in positions to accept them or not before the pressure of the actual interview.

Some people just have skills with a bo staff and drawing Ligers, bred for their skills in magic.

If you are the former, consider it, if you are a wall flower and wear snowmobile boots to class then skip it.

I tend to find sycophants very transparent and annoying. I'd like to think that I'm at least competing with other students that know more than how to schmooze the committee members.

 

[truthseeker]

I tend to find sycophants very transparent and annoying. I'd like to think that I'm at least competing with other students that know more than how to schmooze the committee members.

Of course that is the goal. You are. But people are people and if there is one person that the committee members remember and one that they don't, with all other things being equal, who do you think is getting the spot.

They can be transparent but my point still stands. If you are good at it, go, if you are not, don't. Use every tool in your possession to get accepted. If schmoozing is one, you would be a fool not to use it.

I personally am NOT a good schmoozer. I tend to try too hard. That said, most applicants are going to be well qualified. If you can impress with something other than your resume, take advantage of it.

 

[SuperKirby]

Thanks for all the advice. Due to my tight schedule and expensive air travel, I decided not to go. Should I email them telling them thanks and explain why I can't make it? TIA again.

 

[lee9786]

Of course that is the goal. You are. But people are people and if there is one person that the committee members remember and one that they don't, with all other things being equal, who do you think is getting the spot.

They can be transparent but my point still stands. If you are good at it, go, if you are not, don't. Use every tool in your possession to get accepted. If schmoozing is one, you would be a fool not to use it.

I personally am NOT a good schmoozer. I tend to try too hard. That said, most applicants are going to be well qualified. If you can impress with something other than your resume, take advantage of it.

True. It is what it is. I'll guess we'll find out.