Chapter 31: Day of the Interview Part 3
"Dr. Elara, please start the interview. I'm ready," I said, taking the initiative, not wanting to waste their time.
This made the Professor give me a good impression compared to his disinterest before.
"Understood. So, Mr. Rio, can you tell me a joke?" Dr. Elara said with a straight face.
Is this a joke? What the fuck are you asking me? Aren't you in a hurry?
Emma, who heard this, seemed to peak in interest.
Not knowing what to do, I saw Emma looking at me intently. Didn't she already do the interview? Wouldn't a normal person be dumbfounded when faced with a question like this in an interview?
If she's that interested instead of surprised, it must mean this should be a part of the interview, and she just wants to know what others' answers are, like comparing test answers for a quiz. I see.
"Mr. Rio?" Dr. Elara asked again, seeing my blank state.
I immediately pulled myself together and said, "Yes. Correct, I'm the joke."
As soon as the words left my mouth, I heard a sudden spluttering sound. Emma, who had just taken a sip of the coffee, was now struggling to keep it in her mouth. Her eyes went wide, and her cheeks puffed out as she desperately tried to swallow without spraying coffee everywhere.
With a herculean effort, Emma managed to gulp down the coffee, but she couldn't contain the laughter that followed. She clapped a hand over her mouth, her shoulders shaking with suppressed giggles. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she fought to regain composure.
"I'm so sorry," she gasped between barely contained fits of laughter. "That was just... unexpected."
The room's atmosphere shifted dramatically. Dr. Elara's lips twitched, betraying a hint of amusement. Professor Hartley raised an eyebrow, while Dr. Patel leaned back in his chair, a look of intrigue crossing his face.
Emma, still battling her laughter, reached for a tissue to dab at her eyes and the corners of her mouth. "Oh my goodness," she whispered, her voice trembling with mirth. "I didn't see that coming at all."
I sat there, caught between embarrassment and a strange sense of pride. At least I'd managed to break the tension, even if it was at my own expense. I did good right?
Dr. Elara cleared her throat, regaining her professional demeanor, though a glimmer of amusement remained in her eyes. "Well, Mr. Rio, that was certainly... an interesting response. Perhaps you'd care to elaborate on your answer?"
As I opened my mouth to respond, I noticed Emma biting her lip, clearly trying to prevent another outburst of laughter. The interview had certainly taken an unexpected turn, and I found myself both dreading and looking forward to what might come next.
I took a deep breath, realizing this was my chance to turn the situation to my advantage. "Well, Dr. Elara," I began, my voice steadier than I felt, "I believe that sometimes the best way to approach an unexpected situation is with self-deprecating humor. It shows adaptability, quick thinking, and the ability to lighten tense situations."
I glanced around the room, noting the professors' attentive expressions. Even Emma had calmed down, though her eyes still sparkled with amusement.
"In a high-pressure environment like this university," I continued, "being able to think on your feet and maintain a positive attitude is crucial. My answer demonstrates that I can do both, even when faced with unconventional questions or challenges."
Dr. Patel nodded slowly, a look of approval crossing his face. "Interesting perspective, Mr. Rio. How would you apply this approach in a collaborative research setting?"
I felt a surge of confidence. This was familiar territory. "In research, especially when working on complex problems, tensions can run high. A well-timed joke or a moment of levity can reset the team's energy and foster creativity. However," I added, leaning forward slightly, "it's equally important to know when to be serious and focused. Balance is key."
Professor Hartley leaned forward, his eyes sharp with interest. "And how do you strike that balance?" he asked, his tone challenging yet curious.
I took a moment to collect my thoughts, aware that this could be a pivotal moment in the interview. "By reading the room, understanding the stakes, and always prioritizing the work," I replied without missing a beat. My voice was calm and confident, belying the nervous energy coursing through me. "Humor is a tool, not the end goal. The primary focus is always on advancing our research and knowledge."
I elaborated further, "In practice, this means being attuned to the team's dynamics and the project's current phase. During brainstorming sessions or when we're stuck on a problem, a bit of levity can spark creativity. However, as deadlines approach or when we're dealing with critical data, it's crucial to maintain a more serious demeanor. It's about creating an environment where both innovation and rigor can thrive."
As I spoke, I noticed Emma watching me intently from the corner of my eye. Her earlier embarrassment had seemingly evaporated, replaced by a look of genuine interest. There was something in her expression – a mix of surprise and... was that admiration? It was hard to tell, but her intense focus made me feel like I was saying something worth hearing.
Dr. Elara leaned back in her chair, her expression a perfect poker face. I couldn't tell if she was impressed, skeptical, or simply processing my words. After a moment of silence that felt like an eternity, she spoke. "Well, Mr. Rio, you've certainly given us a lot to consider. Your approach to balancing professionalism and personal dynamics is... intriguing." She paused, then seamlessly shifted gears. "Now, let's move on to another topic. I believe you mentioned some innovative ideas in your application..."
It had been a rollercoaster of an interview, starting with that unexpected coffee incident and joke request, and ending with a headache even with all that studying it seems that I fell short in terms of academic here which dissapointed the professors. As expected of the No.1 school in the world.
Dr. Elara stood up, signaling the end of our session. Her movement broke the intellectual spell that had fallen over the room. "Thank you, Mr. Rio," she said, her tone professional but not unkind. "Your ideas are certainly... thought-provoking. Now, please wait in our waiting room as your demonstration of your talent is next. We'll call you when we're ready."
"Ms. Kürz," Dr. Elara continued, "if you could stay behind for a moment?"
As I gathered my things and prepared to leave, my mind already racing through possible scenarios for this 'demonstration,' I caught Emma's eye. She gave me a small, encouraging smile that seemed to say, "You've got this."
I returned her smile with a grateful nod as I headed for the door.