Hi S, How did the interview go and what type of questions were you asked?

Sorry Roan for the delay. The interview was very fine - no surprises! Only questions whose answers were on my finger tips. Connectivity, however, was an issue -they had to redial about 3x! They gave the slot to someone they'd seen face-to-face..abit of unfair advantage I'd say. It's Edinburgh..are you slated for an interview with them?

Hi S, No I don't have an interview. I am currently doing a Mres and hope to pursue PhD in the future.

I have not applied to any uni for that yet but, I am looking at some uni website. Sorry to hear that you did not get the place. I guess you just have to keep trying. It is very difficult for international students in terms of funding. Was your interview a panel one? Did they ask any questions about their research papers? How long did they take to tell you that your application was unsuccessful? I'm asking these questions just to get an idea of what to expect when I start my PhD application. Hope to hear from you soon.

My interview was panel-3 guys. They asked eg describe any paper/seminar you've read/attended lately? Any scientific question you think we are able to answer? They wrote 2hrs later to say I'm on the reservation list incase their favored candidate doesn't take the offer. The next day they wrote to say the person took up the position. I guess most PhD interviews will test if you really are interested in science, if their programme is suitable for your need, if you've researched about them and if you have the motivation to finish it!

Hi S. Thanks for your advice. You know one of the things that always get in the way for me is "nervousness" Where you nervous during you interview and how did you deal with that?

S, I think someone other 'S' has replied to your message. Anyway I appreciate your help. By the way, did the supervisors make you feel comfortable ie were they nice?

Roan, I'm particularly shy and nervous myself..but I know nervous is the last thing you want to be in an interview. The solution lies with you though - which is why there is no easy way to do this. I can tell you stories of how I beat shyness and nervousness but it will be lengthy..if you are interested, send me an email and we can pick it from there. sammywambua@gmail.com