P3PPY
P3PPY SuperDork
4/2/24 9:32 p.m.

I am applying for online graduate school and they conduct four hours of interviews as part of the application process. I'm looking for some advice on if I should show up in person for the interview instead of doing the interview online. 
 

Here are some factors I'm considering:

It's a synchronous online program, meaning online students are part of an in-person cohort and must show up for classes just like in-person student. As part of their accreditation they must maintain a certain ratio of professors to students. In my mind, this means that as an online applicant, I take up as much "seating space" as an in-person applicant, but doubt I could make as big/good of an impression over a screen as someone who comes in person. 

My undergrad GPA was pretty lousy from a couple really bad semesters, so I'm already on thin ice, academically speaking. 
 

On the other hand, this is their first year doing remote classes like this (besides whatever they worked out for COVID era) so maybe after this investment in technology they're looking to place X amount of remote students anyway? That's really an unknown: am I competing for a slot with all the in-person students or not?

 

What does the hive say?

 

02Pilot
02Pilot PowerDork
4/2/24 9:52 p.m.

A huge amount depends on the school and the program. Not sure how much you want to disclose, but application standards vary wildly. That said, I would certainly opt for an in-person interview given the option, particularly if you are interviewing with people who may become your instructor and/or advisor. You are very likely competing with all other synchronous instruction students, in-person and remote; regardless of the delivery method, the program still has to employ and pay instructors.

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