I applied for a tenure‑track mathematics position as an out‑of‑state candidate. After submitting my application, I received a call from HR informing me that the math department wished to invite me for a first‑round interview. I was told that the interview required being physically present on campus.
I explained that traveling from out of state would involve significant logistical challenges, including airfare, hotel costs, rental car expenses, and several days of travel. In addition, attending an in‑person first‑round interview would require me to miss multiple days of teaching at my current institution, where I am responsible for showing up to teach my students. Because of these factors, I was unable to attend an in‑person interview at that stage of the process.
I also applied to many other community colleges across the country as an out‑of‑state candidate. All of them offered Zoom interviews for the first round. Sinclair was the only institution that did not provide a remote option and required all candidates to appear in person from the outset.
Applicants who live locally or who can travel easily may find the process straightforward. However, out‑of‑state candidates should be aware that Sinclair does not offer virtual interviews for early rounds, which may limit accessibility for those with teaching obligations or significant travel distances.