Shortly after sending my online application, I received an email asking to schedule a phone screen with a member of the student services department. When we spoke he was very friendly. He discussed the position in detail, asked a little about my background, and left time at the end for some questions. It took about 30 minutes. At the end, he said he would need to confer with his colleagues and would get back to me to schedule an actual interview if I was selected.
After about two weeks had passed, I had almost lost hope when I got an email from another member of student services asking to set up an interview. I interviewed with her about a week later. Again, it took about 30 minutes. She was also very friendly. She seemed very interested in my resume and asked me several questions about it. She also asked some questions about my views of current events and some "what ifs" about the position. I thought we had a good rapport. At the end, she said the next step for successful candidates would be a panel interview with several more people.
I was very excited about the position and waited eagerly for any updates. None came. She had mentioned that the Institute was in its busy period, so I assumed that was the reason. After two weeks, I sent a follow-up email. Still no response. It's been weeks and I've since noticed that the position has been filled. I'm disappointed, not only because I didn't get to move forward in the process, but also because of the difference in the way I was treated while I was being considered vs. after I apparently wasn't. I hope that in the future, Showa Boston makes the extra effort to treat all candidates with respect throughout the entire process, not just when it's convenient. All candidates that make it to the interview process deserve at least a "thanks, but no thanks" email, especially if they've sent a follow-up.