Packing for MLA
Interviewing is mentally and physically tiring, so you want to keep a few important things in your bag or attaché case to make things go as smoothly as possible:
- your cell phone (if you don’t have one, I recommend buying a cheap pay-as-you go temporary one just for the trip)
- small snacks and beverages – especially water
- your interview schedule
- the MLA hotel map
- the information you compiled about the interview schools
- extra copies of sample syllabi, research program, writing samples, CVs, etc., assembled as packets in case you want to leave them with the committee
- plenty of cash in case you need to catch a cab (or stop for a soda for a caffeine kick)
- some blank paper in case you want to jot down some notes immediately after the interview
- aspirin or medicine for a headache (the eye strain and deep concentration during interviews can trigger some horrid headaches)
- Tums or other stomach soothers
- any medicines you need, like an inhaler, allergy medicine, insulin, etc.
- tissues
- essential make-up for touch-ups
- breath mints
- and a handi-wipe or 2 (or Tide stick) in case you spill food on your clothes during lunch
- eye drops and/or contact disinfectant
- nice handkerchief for runny nose
- change for hotel pay phone if cell phone dies
- extra pantyhose if you’re wearing a skirt/dress