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Send a Thank-You Email (Within 24 Hours)
Send a Thank-You Email (Within 24 Hours)
Your email should:
Express gratitude for their time
Mention something specific you enjoyed learning about
Reaffirm your interest in the lab
Thank them again for the opportunity to interview
Reflect on the Experience
Reflect on the Experience
After the interview, take a few minutes to reflect on the conversation. Writing things down will help you clarify your feelings and decide whether the lab is a good match for you
You might record:
What questions were asked
What parts of the interview went well
What would you improve next time
What you learned about the lab and its expectations
How the conversation and environment made you feel (comfortable, excited, unsure, energized, overwhelmed
Whether the lab's values, research focus, and culture align with your interests
This reflection is important for making thoughtful decisions about which lab you want to invest your time and energy in
Be Patient While Waiting
Be Patient While Waiting
Professors and graduate students are often extremely busy
Wait 1-2 weeks before sending a polite follow-up if you haven't heard back
One follow-up email is all you need!
Stay Organized
Stay Organized
Keep track of:
Which labs you have contacted
Labs you have interviewed with
Notes about next steps (e.g., paperwork, start dates)
Be Proud of Yourself!
Be Proud of Yourself!
Whether or not you receive an offer, the interview is still a meaningful success
Every experience:
Confidence
Communication skills
Professionalism
Insight into the type of research environment you like220 × 284
Tip: For an example of a follow-up email after an interview, visit the "Templates" tab on this website.
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