Originally Posted by summerssun

So, it's looking like I will not get in this round (applied to 7 phd clinical programs)... in fact, I didn't even get any interviews. how can I improve for next year (or the year after...)?

GPA/EDUCATION:
3.4 at a top 15 private university known for grade deflation. psych gpa is about the same, slight upward trend, double major (other major is not really relevant)

GRE:
1300, taken only once. higher verbal than math

PUBS:
none. no presentations either

LETTERS OF REC:
One from advisor, one from lab supervisor, one from dean, very positive

WORK EXPERIENCE:
3 years part time paid social psych research assistant, 1 year part time research assistant (different lab), 1 year full time paid RA in clinical psychiatry lab (all three institutions in top 15 schools), plus one summer internship in counseling setting, plus two years counseling hotline experience (a few hours per week)



Factors that I have considered that may have been a detraction... perhaps my personal statement did not emphasize the research match enough? (although, all profs were in the research area I want, currently one that I work on a study for, in fact) My SOP was also written in a more "personable" than "professional" style. And of course, my GPA is on the lower side. Two of my POIs let me know that I was "very competitive" and only being rejected for reasons of two many applicants/not enough departmental stipends. Still though, I find myself disheartened at the end of this process, with barely a nibble on my application. Advice appreciated!!