UCM Clinical Psychology Recruitment

Interview Information

We know that interviews can be exciting and stressful! Please remember that we invited you to interview with us because we were impressed by your experiences and potential, and felt you could be a great fit for our community. Our interviewers look forward to meeting you and to getting to know you better beyond your written materials.


The information on this page will help you prepare for the interview day. On the day of the interview, you will receive password to access the Interview Day Materials page to view handouts, sample postdoctoral schedules, and the video tour. We hope that you will enjoy your day with us and leave with an accurate impression of our program.


For any questions prior to interview day, please contact Rachel Myszak
rmyszak@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu

773-702-0529

Interview Day Schedule (Central Standard Time)

8:00 – 9:00 am Program Overview with the Training Director
9.15 am – 11.45 am Individual Interviews
12.00 pm Meeting with current postdocs and wrap up
  • Schedules will vary by tracks

Technology & Tips

We know that interviewing remotely comes with a unique set of stresses. However, please remember that our interviewers are interested in assessing your potential fit with our program as an emerging health service psychologist. They are not evaluating your internet speed, home interview setup, or technological savviness.

Interviews will be conducted through UChicago ZoomZoom links for each meeting can be found in your individual schedules.

What if I have technological issues?

If any issues arise during the morning program overview, please contact Rachel Myszak: rmyszak@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu, 219-902-9443.

In case of technological issues during the individual interviews, follow these steps:

  • Wait for the interviewer to contact you by phone with instructions on how to proceed
  • If you do not hear from the interviewer within 5 minutes, contact Rachel Myszak: rmyszak@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu, 219-902-9443.

Supported Browsers include:

Internet Explorer 10 or higher
Microsoft Edge 38.14393.0.0 or higher
Google Chrome 53.0.2785 or higher
Safari 10.0.602.1.50 or higher
Firefox 49.0 or higher.

Supported Devices include:

iOS: iPad + Zoom Rooms Console + PoE/Data Kit. iPad Mini + Zoom Rooms Console w/ PoE/Data.
Android. Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1 + Heckler Design Stand for Tab A 10.1
Windows 10. HP Elite X2. Surface Go.

Interview Day Contact
If you encounter any issues during your interview day, our Administrative Assistant, Rachel Myszak, is available to assist you. Please reach out by phone or email at any time:

Rachel Myszak
rmyszak@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu
219-902-9443

Virtual Interview Tips
Virtual Interview Guide for Applicants: Identifying a Suitable Environment and Technology

To complete virtual interviews, you will need the following:

  • A stable internet connection (Wired is more reliable than WiFi)
  • A computer or tablet with a good webcam and microphone. Although a mobile phone may be used, we recommend using a computer or tablet to improve stability. We also recommend using a device that will not accept phone calls during interviews because a phone call will interfere with your ability to complete your response.
  • A private, quiet, and well-lit space with limited distractions.

 Technology

  • Allow time before the interview starts to conduct a technology check:
    • Double-check your microphone and camera to make sure they’re working well.
    • Shut down all programs on your device so that no alerts, notifications, or other electronic interruptions distract you.
    • Make sure your device is fully charged. Carry a charger with you and make sure you have access to an outlet in case there is a problem with your battery.
    • Check your internet speed. You can do this it at SpeedTest.net. Sometimes switching from Wi-Fi to a wired ethernet connection improves your internet speed. If your home’s internet connection is too slow, consider finding a space where you can do the interview in a private space with stable Wi-Fi.
  • Have a set of headphones handy in case you need them (e.g., to reduce echo).
  • Have a backup plan in case technology fails. Unless the interviewer already provided you with a backup plan, ask what steps you should follow in the event of any technical issues (e.g., interviewer will call you).
  • If possible, record yourself ahead of time so you can get a sense of your eye contact, sound quality, and whether you’re fidgeting, swiveling in your chair, or making distracting gestures, such as covering parts of your face. Try to present a calm, engaged demeanor during the interview.
  • If using Zoom, consider using Speaker view instead of Gallery view as you will be more likely to look directly at the camera.

Environment

  • Identify a private, quiet, well-lit space where you can complete the interview by yourself, free of potential distractions, and where you can speak freely. Make sure you have control over background noise, so avoid open spaces in libraries and places where you could be interrupted such as coffee shops and other communal spaces. Consider completing the interview at home or find a space offered by your school.
  • Avoid having sources of bright light such as sunlight and lamps directly behind you because they will cast a shadow on you. Instead, make sure a light source is in front of you so the interviewer can see you clearly. If you’re doing the interview at night, make sure there’s a lamp available that can light up your face.
  • Consider the backdrop you will use during your interview and try to keep it clean and neat and free of distractions. If your computer has the technological capacity, you may consider a virtual background (Zoom Backgrounds).
  • Try to have an outlet nearby in case you need to plug in your device.
  • Have a glass of water nearby.

Presentation

  • Dress professionally, as you would for an in-person interview.
  • Position the camera at eye level so it looks like you are looking directly at the interviewer.
  • Try to be rested and focused. As with any formal interview, you want to be able to focus on understanding the questions, crafting coherent responses, and presenting your best self.
  • If you plan to take notes, let the interviewer know that you are doing so. Looking down or typing on the computer may lead to you being perceived as distracted.
  • If you anticipate any distractions (e.g., children, pets), let the interviewer know ahead of time.
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