The core part of your visit will be interviews with multiple faculty members and, in some cases, current graduate students. Some interviews may be with PIs whose research interests align with yours, while others, often members of the admissions committee, may not share your research focus. While this can feel like the most “high-stakes” part of the process, think of it as a professional conversation with future colleagues. Come prepared with thoughtful questions, a clear “elevator pitch” about your background and research interests, and answers to common questions such as, “Why are you interested in this program?”

If you receive the names of your interviewers in advance, it is a good idea to research their current work through their lab websites or tools like the NIH RePORTER. Do not worry, you are not expected to be an expert in your field of research, nor theirs. If you have made it to the interview stage, the admissions committee already sees your potential and wants you to succeed. Give it your best effort, stay curious, and be yourself.

You will likely be asked to talk about one or multiple of your research experiences. This is a key opportunity to demonstrate both your scientific understanding and your personal contributions to your project. Be sure to clearly explain what you did, not just what the lab accomplished, so the interviewer sees you as an active participant. Talk confidently about the project’s hypothesis, methods, results, and why it was meaningful to you.

Interviewers will be gauging your genuine interest in UPenn (or whatever program you applied to). This can be especially important for applicants from highly ranked institutions or those traveling from farther away. While it is great to express enthusiasm for a specific PI, avoid framing your interest in the program as only about working with one person. Faculty may leave, decline to take students, or may not be the right fit despite their scientific reputation. It is more effective to show enthusiasm for a broader area of research and highlight multiple faculty whose work aligns with your interests.

Interviews and visit weekends are also your chance to evaluate whether the program is a good fit for you. Depending on the program, you may attend lab tours, poster sessions, research talks, and other events designed to showcase the community and scientific environment. These activities offer valuable opportunities to connect with members of labs you are interested in and to see what resources are available to support your growth as a scientist.

In addition to research-focused events, you will likely attend presentations about the program structure and university-wide resources. There may be panels with current students and sessions led by staff who oversee academic, professional, and community development for graduate students. Use this time to learn about the program’s culture, discover groups you might want to join, and determine whether the environment aligns with your values and goals. The experience can be both exciting and exhausting, so try to stay engaged and make the most of the opportunity to ask questions.

Many interview visits include social events, such as meals on- or off-campus, networking hours, or parties hosted by current graduate students. These gatherings are typically more relaxed and offer a great opportunity to connect informally with students. Use this time to ask about their experiences in the program and why they chose to study there. You might also have a chance to meet faculty members you have not interviewed with or chat with admissions committee members to clarify any logistical questions. Remember to make responsible choices and enjoy the experience!