If anyone could provide feedback/any input /advice I would be greatly appreciative!
For this admissions cycle, I recieved 2 offers of admissions (1 PsyD and 1 PhD)
1. My first offer was for Indiana State University's PsyD Program (fully funded with a yearly stipend of 6,700)
and my
2. second offer was for ECU's Clinical Health Psychology Program (fully funded with a yearly 9 month stipend of 16,000)
With this being said, I am quite a bit torn as to which route will be best for an overall learning experience, while maintaining life balance, and having an abundance of long-term job opportunities.
Both programs are filled with incredibly receptive and welcoming faculty and graduate students. I also have very similar research interests with both of the programs, so this is not a concern of mine.
I did notice that students at ECU seem to be a bit more overwhelmed with their various roles and responsibilities (well-justified). While at ISU, the students definitely had a full plate, but their stress levels seemed to be slightly lower, possibly given that there is less of a research focus and more of a clinical orientation to the program (while still working towards a final dissertation). While both programs were welcoming, ECU felt a bit more intimidating and ISU felt a bit more like home. ISU's student's relationships with each other and the faculty member's were outstanding. They seem to truly care for one another, and provide continual support throughout the journey (small cohort of 9 students).
With this being said, both progroms do offer a collaborative environment.
I truly value being able to maintain my mental and physical health and well-being throughout these next 4-5 years. I feel that I must maintain a healthy balance within my personal life to perform at my highest professional potential. And I truly need a community that is supportive and not the least bit intimidating (already feel the imposter syndrome taking hold of me).
Career prospects: Private practice, and or Hospital Setting working within an interdisciplinary team, and or a research facility.
Any advice or suggestions will be greatly welcomed. Thank you