Applying Authentically: Tips for Applying for New Positions from the L&C Lab
- L&C Lab
- 5 hours ago
- 6 min read
Applying for a new position, whether in research or any other field, can feel overwhelming. To help applicants feel more confident and supported, our current lab members have shared their personal insights on how to stand out and stay authentic throughout the application process. From filling out the application, to managing pre-interview nerves, to showcasing your values and experiences throughout an interview, these insights offer practical advice every step of the way.
Mya’s Tip: Filling out Application
Filling out an application can be intimidating, especially if there are a lot of questions you have to answer. My tip is to take it one question at a time. Work offline (e.g., in a journal or Word Doc) so you can do a little writing, leave for a few hours, and come back with fresh ideas. Review your resume and mention the most
relevant experiences you have whether on or off campus; it’s better to mention a single super-relevant experience than nine irrelevant experiences. Although you may not have the exact experience you’re applying for, you likely have some experience that taught you skills that will be particularly useful for the position you’re applying for. Additionally, don’t be afraid to share your values and interests. People reading applications want to know the real you, not something created by AI or something inauthentic. I highly recommend having someone read over your answer before you submit. Save your application to review before the interview; if you make it to the interview stage, people liked what they saw on paper, so it’s helpful to study why you made such a good impression so you can amplify those characteristics in person. Finally, remember it never hurts to apply!
Mya Lopez
Lab Manager/Project Manager
Kira’s Tip: Consider The Risk-Reward Ratio
As previously affirmed by my lab mates, applications can be anxiety inducing, particularly for those of us with social anxiety. However, I’d like to challenge these anxieties we may have with a question. Have you yet considered the risk-reward ratio? I have come to believe that every individual has the ability to gain more than
they could potentially lose by applying. Some frequent thoughts one may face are “I am totally under-qualified,” “I don't have much experience,” "I don't even know what to say.” What each of these statements highlights to me is that there is so much more to gain by submitting that application. The risk of applying is that you may not receive the desired position. This is the same risk of not applying at all. However, applying can bring out a plethora of rewards. Even if you don’t get the position you’re applying for, the application process can give you practice and experience speaking with employers. You may even be surprised to receive the position you desire! I hope that in your times of uncertainty, you consider that there may be risks but the rewards are all the more worth it. For more of my thoughts on putting yourself out there and overcoming imposter syndrome, check out my recent blog post!
Kira Alberti
Project Manager
Cole’s Tip : Convey Value Connection
Preparedness is a fundamental quality that you want to have when applying. Being
prepared for the meeting is learning more about the organization you are applying to and why you want to join. When applying to the L&C Lab, I looked at the website, found the values of the lab, and took some time to understand how they intersected with mine. When I got in the interview, I was able to express how my values intersected with the lab’s, which I think helped my interviewers and me envision how I may fit into the lab.
Cole Williamson
Research Assistant
Serena’s Tip: Rehearse To Reduce Pre-Interview Anxiety
We’re no strangers to pre-interview jitters; it’s inevitable, especially when applying for
a position that you really want. My tip is to always rehearse before an interview,
preferably with a partner, friend, or family member so you are surrounded by an
encouraging support system. Not only will you feel more comfortable with the flow of answering questions, but you’ll also be able to get a sense of what areas you need to improve on - are you taking too many awkward pauses? Which parts of your resume do you need to familiarise yourself with better? By pre-rehearsing your interview, you can even get a general sense of the kind of questions you could be asked, and effectively deal with them on the day of! Oftentimes, the knowledge that you’ve prepared to the best of your ability will help reduce anxious feelings of self doubt.
Serena D’souza
Research Assistant
Francelle’s Tip: Have a Growth Mindset
Have you ever wanted a job opportunity but didn't have the necessary skills or experience? Have you thought of embracing a growth mindset?
In interviews, having a growth mindset is simply emphasizing your willingness to learn and adapt in areas where you’re unfamiliar and have the least experience. Sometimes we have to take different paths to reach our destination. Instead of focusing entirely on what you know, why not seek feedback, take on new roles and responsibilities, and, especially, stay open to learning new things? Lastly, show some curiosity, flexibility, and a strong desire to learn. They are the key factors to long-term growth, even after you're hired. Remember, not everyone will have all the skills and experience in every field of their career, and that is okay! Everyone starts from somewhere, and developing a growth mindset and a strong willingness to learn will help you expand your skills and knowledge into paths beyond your imagination.
Francelle Deray
Research Assistant
Karolyn’s Tip: Authenticity
Pretending to be someone you’re not translates– no matter how much you
rehearse what you think your interviewer wants to hear. My tip is to stay true to yourself! What you say in one hour can set the tone for who your employers expect to meet, and if you’re really not that person, it could create a lot of anxiety to keep up that image. I also think you’ll be most productive working with people you can find community with! Chemistry isn’t everything, but it can help in finding the position best for you.
Karolyn Muncada
Project Manager
Stacy’s Tip: Project Confidence
Interviews can be so daunting, especially when it’s a position you’re really excited
about. There are many ways to prepare for interviews, but once you get into that room my one tip for you is: don’t forget your confidence! Sometimes you have to fake it. I always try to remember two things: dress nicely in something that makes me feel good, and speak in a strong tone that projects confidence. Doing things that will boost your confidence before the interview can also be of help like listening to your favorite song and practicing self-affirmations. Remember you should be confident and celebrate yourself every step of the way!
Stacy Cardenas
Social Media Coordinator/Research Assistant
Rishi’s Tip: Turn Technical Skills Into Stories
Most people are unsure of how to stand out in their interviews, but turning your
technical skills into stories is a surefire way to make yourself memorable. Instead of just listing skills or techniques, you can try sharing quick stories that show how you solved a problem or learned something new. Talk about a time you faced a tricky problem, how you changed your approach, and what you learned from it. For example, at uni I was taught the STAR method: when telling stories in interviews you first describe the Situation, the Task, the Action you took, and the Result. This framework allows you to put your skills in context while showing your experience. Before your interview, think of two to three short examples that highlight your technical skills through problem-solving or teamwork. Remember, your experiences are your most valuable tool!
Rishi Katariya
Research Assistant
Cadence’s Tip: Develop Thoughtful Questions
Preparing for interviews can be intimidating, but my tip for being a standout
applicant is to come prepared with lots of questions. Asking insightful questions not only demonstrates your preparation, but also shows genuine interest and commitment to the role. Moreover, the questions you ask allow you to learn more about the position and help ensure it aligns with your own goals and values. Whereas bad questions can feel performative and waste valuable time, thoughtful questions showcase your priorities and perspective; so, take the time to prepare meaningful ones. Your curiosity and engagement will leave a lasting impression on your interviewers!
Cadence Becker
Research Assistant/Special Project Leader
Zach’s Tip: Connect with Your Reviewers and Interviewers
When I apply for positions, one of my top priorities is building a personal connection
with the people on the other side of the application process. In my written
application, I want my reviewers to see me as a human - not just a skillbot that can perform the same tricks as every other skillbot applying. In my interview, I go the extra mile to be kind and pleasant. By the time you’ve made it to the interview stage, managers have usually already decided that you have the necessary skills. So, think of the interview as a chance to show an organization that it will be safe - maybe even enjoyable - to spend extensive time with you: sharing weekly meetings with you, working on projects with you, or waiting for a connecting flight at an airport with you. Building a personal connection is especially important when applying for the Love & Communication Lab. When we accept an applicant, it’s because we read your application and left your interview excited to spend months or even years working alongside you. If you take nothing else away from this blog post, let it be the lesson that authenticity is key to a successful application! <3
Zach Reese
Lab Director