Hi guys. I've got a bit of a potential problem coming up, although I hope nothing like it happens.

Basically, I've an interview coming up next week, and that's fine. However, when I initially approached this supervisor, she gave me information about another PhD one of her colleagues in a different uni was about to run, and I've also applied for that. Next week's interview super knows that this -other- PhD would be ideal for me because of my background. Now I'm terrified that in the interview, I'm going to be asked whether I'll take the -other- PhD if I get offered it, or whether that problem will be broached in any capacity in the interview. Is that likely? What should I say/do if it does happen?

Say you will have to consider your options carefully, that you are approaching each interview with an open mind and that you can't comment on the other PhD until you have been to the interview, seen the facilities etc. Don't feel forced into revealing to much.

Good luck.

Hmm thanks for the advice. That makes a lot of sense. I guess I'll have to work on some wording, but that may be the route I have to take. I'm just concerned that if I say that, they'll be more inclined to take someone who says "I'll definitely do it if I'm offered it."

when you said dodgy I was expecting something like you'd sleapt with the supervisor after a drunken night out.

I wouldn't worry too much, if you are a good candidate they will half expect you to be looking at other options. If they bring it up just say you will be considering each project carefully.

I was in a similar situation when I was applying. The supervisors where very understanding and I never felt pressured to divulge too much.

lol Pea, That ~would~ be dodgy! Thankfully it's not that bad, but thanks a lot, both of you. You've really put my mind at ease about that 8)

lol @ pea what a scenario

Use it as a chance to go into detail about why you want this project. Highlight all the points that interest you and what you are looking forward to achieving - turn it intp an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for this project. Even if you think you prefer this other project, don't let them think that

Hi there,

I see little point in being covert about your intentions. Of course, be diplomatic, but remember, it's your PhD and there are loads out there. Take the PhD that you want to take!

It sounds bizarre to me that there is any need to conceal any interest or consideration that you are giving to another PhD in this particular interview, especially when it is this interviewer that suggested this 'other PhD' in the first place. My own personal opinion, and it is only that and nothing more, is that what is important, is that you like the supervisor that you work for and that if the PhD you go for is the one for you, it will feel natural and there should be no need to 'convince' or 'show (possibly feigned) enthusiasm as suggested by others.

Having read your post again, I have to say I get the impression that you quite simply have not decided yet....which is of course a matter of fact and is absolutely fine!

Thanks, ophiucus, that was really well put. Both of these PhDs are very appealing, and I suppose I wouldn't have been asked to interview if they weren't interested in me. I guess an interview is an opportunity for me to decide whether I like them as much as it is for them to see how they feel about me. It wouldn't be feigned interest, but if the topic is broached, I will say that I am certainly interested, but I will approach any potential interview with an open mind, like Jen said. It's just a matter of wording that 8)

Thanks to all of you, it's a lot of help ^_^

Well, thought I'd let you know that I went for the interview, and although I screwed up one of the questions they asked me BIG TIME, I still got offered the place!! Huzzah 8)

I wasn't asked anything about this other than "have you applied for any other places?", to which I said yes, and they asked for a little detail. My super obviously knows that I'm waiting for other places... The thing is, that might take a long time. This project is cool, but I would really much rather do the other one (IF I'm offered it...). I really need some advice now - how hated will I be if I accept, but then go somewhere else? :s

I was wondering that too, I've applied for a few things, I've got an interview for one shortly, but I'm waiting to hear from one, and the close date is not passed on another. If you interview and get offered the place and accept, then a month down the line phone up and say you dont want to do it any more, does anyone know if there would be any repercussions?

Yeah I think this is a pretty important point. On the one hand, we want to be doing the project that best suits us - it'll increase our chances of success doing something we're [really] interested in doing, and equally potentially reduce stress. On the other hand, this may have repurcussions for the funding that has been secured.

And, of course, nobody wants to p**s anybody off!