Graduate Admissions Mock Interview (MS / PhD) with

This 45-minute mock interview is designed for students applying to MS or PhD programs in Computer Science, AI, Machine Learning, or related fields.

The session simulates a real graduate admissions interview and focuses on:
• Clearly presenting your background and research interests
• Discussing prior projects, publications, or research experience
• Answering faculty-style questions about motivation, fit, and long-term goals
• Identifying weaknesses, red flags, and gaps in your narrative
• Improving technical and research communication under questioning

I have conducted hundreds of graduate and research interviews, served on admissions and hiring committees, and previously acted as a PhD program director. This session reflects how faculty actually evaluate candidates—not generic interview advice.

You will receive direct, candid, faculty-style feedback on both content and delivery, along with concrete suggestions to strengthen your interview performance and overall application strategy.

This session is best suited for applicants who have a defined target program or research direction.

I am a Principal Researcher at Microsoft, working on AI systems. With 12+ years of experience in both industry and academia, I have successfully navigated career transitions, built strong networks, and thrived in both corporate and academic environments.

I have mentored several dozens of researchers, engineers, and professionals at different career stages—helping them break into big tech, transition between academia and industry (and vice versa), refine their technical focus, and develop long-term career strategies. Many of my mentees have secured roles at top tech companies, advanced in their careers, or successfully pivoted to new opportunities.

Throughout my career, I have defied expectations and broken barriers. Whether it was earning a Ph.D., securing a faculty position, transitioning into big tech, or advancing within it, I encountered skepticism from others. But instead of accepting limitations, I made it happen through strategic planning, resilience, and continuous learning. Now, I want to help others do the same!

If your goal is to break into big tech, transition between academia and industry, or advance in your career, I offer strategic guidance, actionable advice, and mentorship tailored to your goals. Let’s connect and build a roadmap to success!

🌐 Learn more about me: https://sites.google.com/site/spyridonmastorakis
💼 Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spyridon-mastorakis-56438190/
👥 See a list of my current and past mentees: https://sites.google.com/site/spyridonmastorakis/current-and-past-mentees