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[abdecon]

I got the call yesterday (the now notorious Saturday surprise call--unknown number on caller ID) for an interview at my dream school. Now am paralyzed with anxiety. I am still in shock that they think I am qualified. How do I pull it together so I don't go in there looking like I am in over my head?

[notaprof]

Dear ABDEcon,

Focus on this part of your posting

they think I am qualified.

and then do your homework.  Go through their website and learn all you can about the institution.  If they think you are qualified then you probably already know what you need to do.  Once the happiness/anxiety shock wears off, you'll do well.  Congratulations on getting this far.   Let your eagerness show but temper it so that they don't think you are desperate.  Best of luck.

[newontt]

Congratulations, ABDEcon! If it makes you feel any better, I feel the same way when committees express interest in my application.
I think that we are simply not yet used to seeing ourselves as academics. We're still thinking of ourselves as students.

Best of luck,

Z

[camchiga]

I'm in the same boat!
I also got "the call" yesterday and not from the departmental secretary either, it was the chair in person! I was shocked to say the least, I was in the middle of cooking!
I don't have any advice, just know you are not alone!