Advice from Prof for Applicants to PhD Programs

[leahyhl]

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Sorry - I just don't feel I know enough about counseling programs to offer sound advice.

Any way you would share whatever advice you would give me if I were applying to Clinical programs?

 

[psydd]

research-wise, do you think it would look better to phd programs if i've split up my independent study and honors thesis between two different faculty members? or would it be fine if i wanted to do both with the same professor?

also, should my undergraduate research experience strictly pertain to clinical or counseling psychology if those are the types of programs i'm going to be applying to? or do you think it would be ok if i'm doing a general social psychology-related study?

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Dear DrClinPsyAdvice:

I am wondering if the AW score in GRE will be paid as much attention as the other two sections? I am not too worried about my V & Q(640+800), I haven't received the AW score, I am not so confident with the AW as with the other parts. So I would want to know if the AW will also be one of the critical criteria as cutoff?


Thank you for your advice in advance.


Lola

I don't know that anyone uses a cutoff for this one. It's a new score, so a lot of faculty don't know what to make of it. If your percentile is comparable to the percentile scores on the other sections, that it is fine.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

is it safe to say that only having one full academic year's worth of research experience (honors thesis) isn't going to be enough to make it into a phd program?

No, that would not be safe to say. This is good research experience, and can be quite sufficient.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Any way you would share whatever advice you would give me if I were applying to Clinical programs?

I think your story makes sense, and it may be helpful to discuss with graduate programs. The GPA is still a bit on the low side, however, and it will be important for your referees to discuss your academic potential very explicitly. If your GRE scores are high, people may not pay too much attention to the GPA as well.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

research-wise, do you think it would look better to phd programs if i've split up my independent study and honors thesis between two different faculty members? or would it be fine if i wanted to do both with the same professor?

also, should my undergraduate research experience strictly pertain to clinical or counseling psychology if those are the types of programs i'm going to be applying to? or do you think it would be ok if i'm doing a general social psychology-related study?

1 vs. 2 research advisers should make no difference, unless it means that you are sacrificing depth in your work. The quality is more important than the quantity of experience.

As for clinical research - some find this to be a plus while others will not judge one way or the other. It depends on the nature of the lab you are applying to. If the lab is very clinical in focus (i.e., treatment-outcome research), then clinical research experience may be more imp.

 

[Wrinkles]

DrClinPsyAdvice,

I know that you mentioned that you are a DCT at your university, and I several questions which relates to this position. How do your duties as DCT interact with your mentoring of graduate students? Are you less able to work with students on research? I ask this because I am applying to graduate school with the intention of becoming a professor at a research focused university following graduation, and I know that publications and productivity in graduate school can make or break that aspiration.

Graduate students feel free to throw in your 2 cents.

Thanks!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

DrClinPsyAdvice,

I know that you mentioned that you are a DCT at your university, and I several questions which relates to this position. How do your duties as DCT interact with your mentoring of graduate students? Are you less able to work with students on research? I ask this because I am applying to graduate school with the intention of becoming a professor at a research focused university following graduation, and I know that publications and productivity in graduate school can make or break that aspiration.

Graduate students feel free to throw in your 2 cents.

Thanks!

It depends on the DCT, but it typically would have no negative effect on your mentorship experience or your ability to publish. Often, the DCT is a successful researcher, which means that it actually can be quite beneficial for a student to work with them.

 

[biogirl215]

I had an interesting conversasion with my advisor the other day and would really appreciate any additional input:

I'm a junior, and this is my second semester doing UG research in lab that studies what I want to study in graduate school. Next semester, I'm doing my BA thesis in that area with the professor as my committee chair... She won't let me both do the thesis and be involved in her lab (I asked), but I'm hoping she'll let me come back to the lab senior year, after I've defended.

In this lab, we focus mainly on qualitative research,. To broaden my experience, I've also been working in a neuropsych lab running participants and scoring data, I'm hoping to continue with that next semester.

I've also been offered research positions next semester in a few other labs--one working with parenting styles where the supervising professir is also my teaching supervisor, one working with domestic/relationship violence (an offshoot of what I want to study in a way), and two labs focusing on disability (personal interest of mine). I feel I have time for and want to take all these positions (especially as one is paid!), but my advisor mentioned it might make me seem "scattereed" or "unfocused."

Two things:

1) Will it hurt me because I won't be working in my primary lab while I'm doing my BA Thesis, though I'll still be working very closely with the professor and topic?

2) Is working in a variety of labs a bad thing?

Thanks!

 

[vavel7]

Hey all,

Although, my research area is I/O Psychology in UK, I have a question of general nature regarding scholarship applications.
I'm a graduate student of psychology (with an equivalent of B or 2:1-however on the edge- from a non UK university) and a MSc (58%) in Occupational Psychology from Nottingham University and I'd like to ask whether prior research experience on a specific subject, a very good match between a proposed PhD project and supervisors' interests and good reference letters may counterbalance lower marks in one's first degree.

I intend to apply for a scholarship competition (covering tuition fees and maintenance expences) in a few weeks in a subject area that I've been working on the last 2-3 years, either as part of my research projects or as part of some book chapters' literature reviews, and I have already identified my potential supervisors and discussed my project with them (and I'm very glad that our research interests really match).

However, the scholarship competition will be competitive on a merit base (among all PhD applicants in all university departments). Thus, I wonder if my application will stand any chance to be shortlisted in the first place...

Thank you!!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

I had an interesting conversasion with my advisor the other day and would really appreciate any additional input:

I'm a junior, and this is my second semester doing UG research in lab that studies what I want to study in graduate school. Next semester, I'm doing my BA thesis in that area with the professor as my committee chair... She won't let me both do the thesis and be involved in her lab (I asked), but I'm hoping she'll let me come back to the lab senior year, after I've defended.

In this lab, we focus mainly on qualitative research,. To broaden my experience, I've also been working in a neuropsych lab running participants and scoring data, I'm hoping to continue with that next semester.

I've also been offered research positions next semester in a few other labs--one working with parenting styles where the supervising professir is also my teaching supervisor, one working with domestic/relationship violence (an offshoot of what I want to study in a way), and two labs focusing on disability (personal interest of mine). I feel I have time for and want to take all these positions (especially as one is paid!), but my advisor mentioned it might make me seem "scattereed" or "unfocused."

Two things:

1) Will it hurt me because I won't be working in my primary lab while I'm doing my BA Thesis, though I'll still be working very closely with the professor and topic?

2) Is working in a variety of labs a bad thing?

Thanks!

It's fine to get a variety of research experiences, especially if you are truly interested in these different topics. But as you progress, it is probably good to get in depth experience with just 1-2 things that will get increasingly related to your grad school topic. In other words, a little focus is good, but a variety of experiences also can help you gain exposure to different research traditions, and methods. You will want a balance between breadth and depth, but most importantly, you will want to work on whatever truly interests you (not just what might 'look good' strategically for an application)

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Hey all,

Although, my research area is I/O Psychology in UK, I have a question of general nature regarding scholarship applications.
I'm a graduate student of psychology (with an equivalent of B or 2:1-however on the edge- from a non UK university) and a MSc (58%) in Occupational Psychology from Nottingham University and I'd like to ask whether prior research experience on a specific subject, a very good match between a proposed PhD project and supervisors' interests and good reference letters may counterbalance lower marks in one's first degree.

I intend to apply for a scholarship competition (covering tuition fees and maintenance expences) in a few weeks in a subject area that I've been working on the last 2-3 years, either as part of my research projects or as part of some book chapters' literature reviews, and I have already identified my potential supervisors and discussed my project with them (and I'm very glad that our research interests really match).

However, the scholarship competition will be competitive on a merit base (among all PhD applicants in all university departments). Thus, I wonder if my application will stand any chance to be shortlisted in the first place...

Thank you!!

Sorry - I would like to be helpful, but all scholarship programs and universities use different criteria, and it is not possible to know how your application would be received.

 

[bluelight44]

I don't know that anyone uses a cutoff for this one. It's a new score, so a lot of faculty don't know what to make of it. If your percentile is comparable to the percentile scores on the other sections, that it is fine.

What if not compareble?

 

[apumic]

Not comparable as in better or worse?

 

[bluelight44]

Not comparable as in better or worse?

worse, of course. If it is better than other sections, I wouldn't be so worried.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

worse, of course. If it is better than other sections, I wouldn't be so worried.

If it is worse, people will look carefully at your personal statement to get a sense of your writing ability.

 

[greenmac]

Do you have any advice on how to thank LOR writers?

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Do you have any advice on how to thank LOR writers?

Nothing special is needed or expected.

 

[Mgirl]

First off- THANK YOU for all the advice! It's invaluable.

Here is my story: I got my BA and an MA in a humanities field completely unrelated to psychology, at a highly regarded public school. I did very well (GPA ~3.9), and I did a good amount of research--including thesis research that I conducted abroad. I took around 3 psychology classes. I'm currently applying for three Ph.D programs in Clinical Psychology--they are NOT the most competitive schools (I can tell you personally in a PM which schools they are but I don't want to start insulting any schools on here), and they are based largely on where my husband is currently interviewing for medical school.

I have a pretty interesting life background as well as excellent language skills, which I hope to put to use in psychology (ie, treating/research certain immigrant populations). My overall GRE is 1220, and I haven't taken the psych GRE.

I'm wondering, first off, do I stand a chance at some of these programs (my GPA is well above their avg, my GRE is on par with their avg), given my limited psychology program? Should I mention in my personal statement, or elsewhere, that I plan to complete the prereqs (around 2 or 3 courses) online or in person before next fall? Should I be open about my limited psych background and address it? And in my personal statement/research interest statement, do I need to include anecdotes and such to prove my interest in clinical psychology or just focus on writing about my research interests? In terms of presenting myself, what is the best approach?

Thank you!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

First off- THANK YOU for all the advice! It's invaluable.

Here is my story: I got my BA and an MA in a humanities field completely unrelated to psychology, at a highly regarded public school. I did very well (GPA ~3.9), and I did a good amount of research--including thesis research that I conducted abroad. I took around 3 psychology classes. I'm currently applying for three Ph.D programs in Clinical Psychology--they are NOT the most competitive schools (I can tell you personally in a PM which schools they are but I don't want to start insulting any schools on here), and they are based largely on where my husband is currently interviewing for medical school.

I have a pretty interesting life background as well as excellent language skills, which I hope to put to use in psychology (ie, treating/research certain immigrant populations). My overall GRE is 1220, and I haven't taken the psych GRE.

I'm wondering, first off, do I stand a chance at some of these programs (my GPA is well above their avg, my GRE is on par with their avg), given my limited psychology program? Should I mention in my personal statement, or elsewhere, that I plan to complete the prereqs (around 2 or 3 courses) online or in person before next fall? Should I be open about my limited psych background and address it? And in my personal statement/research interest statement, do I need to include anecdotes and such to prove my interest in clinical psychology or just focus on writing about my research interests? In terms of presenting myself, what is the best approach?

Thank you!

I can't offer a guess about your chances of getting into programs, but I can tell you that non-psych majors gain admission all the time. It is less important for you to prove your interest in clinical psych, and more important for you to demonstrate your knowledge of psychology research and theory. Stating that you have taken psychology classes, scoring well on the Psych GRE, and having letters from psychology researchers who can attest to your knowledge of research theories and methods in this area will be key for you.

 

[leahyhl]

I think your story makes sense, and it may be helpful to discuss with graduate programs. The GPA is still a bit on the low side, however, and it will be important for your referees to discuss your academic potential very explicitly. If your GRE scores are high, people may not pay too much attention to the GPA as well.

My scores are as follows:

V- 660
Q- 630
A- 5

I am still waiting on my scores on the Subject test. Are these "high" enough?

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

My scores are as follows:

V- 660
Q- 630
A- 5

I am still waiting on my scores on the Subject test. Are these "high" enough?

Sorry, it really depends on the program - I'm not sure my predictions or guesses about any specific individual's own case would be useful.

 

[apumic]

My scores are as follows:

V- 660
Q- 630
A- 5

I am still waiting on my scores on the Subject test. Are these "high" enough?

Looking at the mean and median scores of the programs to which you are applying may yield at least some ideas. It would seem to me that if you're close to or above them, you should at least be in the running.

 

[saribou13]

Dear DrClinPsyAdvice:

I recently applied to 8 PhD programs in Clinical Psych at a range of different universities. My undergrad was not in Psychology, it was in Theatre, but I've always been interested in Psychology. I went to a top 10 University with a GPA of 3.42. A year or so out of college, I decided that I wanted to go back to school for a PhD in Clinical Psych. I started taking prereqs at my alma mater, where I also currently am employed. I also got an RA in a professor's lab. Over the summer, I had another research experience. My Psychology courses GPA is 3.8. I took the GRE and got 1260 (650Q - 60th%, 610V - 87th%) and 5.5 AW (90th%). I had three LOR, all from teachers in my psychology courses, one was the one I RA-ed w/ in the spring, who is rising star professor at a top-ranked university (but not in clinical, he's in social psych). I put a lot of effort into my whole application process, and was feeling pretty good (finally), up until I found out my GRE subject test score the other day. I actually did quite poorly, and now I'm worried that this may jeopardize all the hard work I've already put in!! Is this going to be a make-or-break type of situation?? 😕

Any feedback you can provide is greatly appreciated!!

 

[biogirl215]

I have a bit of problem, though it's good one to have. I conducted professors who do work in [my area of interest] asking if I could work with them over the summer. Several have responded affirmatively, though I can't, for geographic reasons, work with them all. The problem is, they are all people who I will likely apply to work with when I apply to grad school next year, and I'm worried that "turning them down" now will cause them to reject me next year. What's the best way to handle this (other than politely, of course)?

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Dear DrClinPsyAdvice:

I recently applied to 8 PhD programs in Clinical Psych at a range of different universities. My undergrad was not in Psychology, it was in Theatre, but I've always been interested in Psychology. I went to a top 10 University with a GPA of 3.42. A year or so out of college, I decided that I wanted to go back to school for a PhD in Clinical Psych. I started taking prereqs at my alma mater, where I also currently am employed. I also got an RA in a professor's lab. Over the summer, I had another research experience. My Psychology courses GPA is 3.8. I took the GRE and got 1260 (650Q - 60th%, 610V - 87th%) and 5.5 AW (90th%). I had three LOR, all from teachers in my psychology courses, one was the one I RA-ed w/ in the spring, who is rising star professor at a top-ranked university (but not in clinical, he's in social psych). I put a lot of effort into my whole application process, and was feeling pretty good (finally), up until I found out my GRE subject test score the other day. I actually did quite poorly, and now I'm worried that this may jeopardize all the hard work I've already put in!! Is this going to be a make-or-break type of situation?? 😕

Any feedback you can provide is greatly appreciated!!

The Subject Test score won't keep you out or get you in. No worries.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

I have a bit of problem, though it's good one to have. I conducted professors who do work in [my area of interest] asking if I could work with them over the summer. Several have responded affirmatively, though I can't, for geographic reasons, work with them all. The problem is, they are all people who I will likely apply to work with when I apply to grad school next year, and I'm worried that "turning them down" now will cause them to reject me next year. What's the best way to handle this (other than politely, of course)?

Good people are in high demand. These professors will understand that you have other offers.

 

[Rapunzel]

I'm second guessing myself on my application. I only applied to one program because I am geographically limited, and there is only one program within range that felt like a fit for me or would be likely to consider me. It is a counseling psychology phd program.

I was late ordering my undergraduate transcripts, because I had sent them a couple of years before to this university when I applied to clinical there before (I wasn't considered, and found out that they didn't keep copies of my transcripts). The application was due the 15th, and they finally posted that they received my last transcript today (the one that I paid extra to rush - the others got there either on time or two days late, with no rush order).

How bad is it for a transcript to be this late? Will they still even consider me?

I'm also questioning my choices of references. I am about to finish a master's degree in counseling, and I chose current references - all faculty supervisors or site supervisors from my internship. I also had taken an academic class from one of the site supervisors. When these LOR writers sent me copies of their letters, the letters looked positive, but extremely general to me. I had offered writing samples and told them what I felt were my strengths and weaknesses, and they didn't mention any of those things. The third LOR writer didn't give me a copy of the letter, but although she is the site supervisor I also took a class from, I'm worried that even if she did write a strong letter (she has consistently given me very positive feedback and I got an A in her class, but I got straight As in my master's program), the phd program might discount her recommendation because she is an LPC. I'm also worried about what her letter might be like because her emailed response after I dropped off materials included enthusiasm that I wanted to go on, combined with asking me why I didn't just apply to Argosy instead of a state university.

I had very little research experience, and I don't think that my undergraduate professors even remember me now. It has been nearly 20 years since I have seen most of them. There was one professor that I TAed for back when I was on campus, and also participated in some of her research five years ago as a distance student taking an additional year to renew my academic qualifications. She wrote letters for me five years ago that were over the top and didn't even convince me that it was for real. And I had one more undergraduate professor from five years ago who knows me very well, as I ended up seeing her for therapy after I graduated. I was one of the top students in her class too. But I decided not to ask her for a LOR.

Did I choose wrong in selecting my letter writers? Do you think that I would have a chance this year given these factors (I have decent GRE scores, undergrad GPA 3.54 and master's program GPA 3.96, not a lot of research experience but quite a bit of clinical). If I end up applying again in future years, should I choose differently? How much does GPA from a master's program get considered, as opposed to undergrad? Does it matter that I had a 4.0 for the last year of undergrad, with a 15-year or so gap in between that fifth year and my previous undergraduate work?

I'm starting to get nervous now, and wishing that I will hear something soon. Thanks!

 

[biogirl215]

Good people are in high demand. These professors will understand that you have other offers.

Thanks for the feedback! I hope they think I'm "good!"

 

[horizonspsych]

Hi,
I am trying to understand more about how I might pursue my goal of being a clinical psychologist in light of my low gpa. I have taken a lot of psychology classes and have a strong interest in the field. I have volunteered in a number of different settings with clinical populations. I worked in a professor's lab over one summer. I have taken three different lab courses. I have volunteered with a clinical psychologist. My grades are mixed..some are good and some are not as good. Unfortunately I am expecting one failing grade. I have a history of clinical depression and even though I feel I have coped with it well at college it has affected my performance. I have struggled to maintain confidence in my academic ability and sometimes that has created a self fulfilling prophecy. In my first year I had a 3.4 gpa overall but I lost a lot of confidence in my second year. I am worried that my gpa may go below 3.0 especially with this failing grade. I have a strong academic interest in psychology. I have persevered in the past to get into a good college and to overcome depression. I am considering studying for a year long Msc to get more research experience. Also, I am an international student..I don't know if that will affect my chances of being admitted?
Really my question centers around trying to understand whether it is possible/likely that admissions committees will be able to overlook my low gpa and what I can do to create a more competitive profile. I am a senior and I have one more semester at college. I'm very interested in Psychology and in working hard. I'm not interested in social work. I would really like to get into a Phd program or a strong PsyD program. Is it impossible? Any advice appreciated

 

[psybee]

Hi,
I am trying to understand more about how I might pursue my goal of being a clinical psychologist in light of my low gpa. I have taken a lot of psychology classes and have a strong interest in the field. I have volunteered in a number of different settings with clinical populations. I worked in a professor's lab over one summer. I have taken three different lab courses. I have volunteered with a clinical psychologist. My grades are mixed..some are good and some are not as good. Unfortunately I am expecting one failing grade. I have a history of clinical depression and even though I feel I have coped with it well at college it has affected my performance. I have struggled to maintain confidence in my academic ability and sometimes that has created a self fulfilling prophecy. In my first year I had a 3.4 gpa overall but I lost a lot of confidence in my second year. I am worried that my gpa may go below 3.0 especially with this failing grade. I have a strong academic interest in psychology. I have persevered in the past to get into a good college and to overcome depression. I am considering studying for a year long Msc to get more research experience. Also, I am an international student..I don't know if that will affect my chances of being admitted?
Really my question centers around trying to understand whether it is possible/likely that admissions committees will be able to overlook my low gpa and what I can do to create a more competitive profile. I am a senior and I have one more semester at college. I'm very interested in Psychology and in working hard. I'm not interested in social work. I would really like to get into a Phd program or a strong PsyD program. Is it impossible? Any advice appreciated

hey horizon,

as someone who knows from depression, one thing i can say (i'm in a clin phd program) is that you have to get a handle on your depression first. getting a masters and maintaining a high gpa, doing very well on the GRE's, they can all help with a low undergrad gpa, but how likely are those two things going to happen unless your depression is better controlled than it has been in undergrad? also, clinical depression, while an understandable "real world" reason for not doing as well as you'd like in school, is not an acceptable reason to present to clin doctoral programs. they want students that they feel secure will succeed and will finish on time, and ones who do not have serious psychological problems. i waited several years after undergrad and explored other interests because i did not feel like i was in the right place to pursue grad school, and i am so so glad that i waited. i'm seen as positive, confident, and helpful in my program, and there is no way that would have been me right out of college. and being in a doctoral program is awesome but really, really stressful. there are tons of triggers, lack of sleep, stress, emotional topics, personal pressures, departmental politics, you name it. as someone who's been there i say focus on you, figure out ways to maintain happiness and control depression, before you try to become a therapist. good luck!

 

[glasscandie]

Hi there:

I have a quick etiquette question. First, I'm not a clinical hopeful, I'm applying to brain/behavior programs, but I find this forum to be so informative that I stick around anyway, haha.

Anyway, I have been applying/e-mailing about summer research opportunities, and I spoke with a researcher who told me that he would more than likely be able to give me a spot, but to e-mail him in Feb/March when it's closer to May.

Now, I've (finally) finalized my list of grad. programs to apply to, and I'm starting to contact researchers I'd like to work with. The researcher who I spoke with re: the summer internship is one who I'd like to work with for grad. school. Should I e-mail him, as I've been e-mailing other professors; or should I wait until (or if) I get a spot in his lab? I have no idea if it makes a difference, but his lab. isn't at my undergrad. school.

Thanks in advance!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

I'm second guessing myself on my application. I only applied to one program because I am geographically limited, and there is only one program within range that felt like a fit for me or would be likely to consider me. It is a counseling psychology phd program.

I was late ordering my undergraduate transcripts, because I had sent them a couple of years before to this university when I applied to clinical there before (I wasn't considered, and found out that they didn't keep copies of my transcripts). The application was due the 15th, and they finally posted that they received my last transcript today (the one that I paid extra to rush - the others got there either on time or two days late, with no rush order).

How bad is it for a transcript to be this late? Will they still even consider me?

I'm also questioning my choices of references. I am about to finish a master's degree in counseling, and I chose current references - all faculty supervisors or site supervisors from my internship. I also had taken an academic class from one of the site supervisors. When these LOR writers sent me copies of their letters, the letters looked positive, but extremely general to me. I had offered writing samples and told them what I felt were my strengths and weaknesses, and they didn't mention any of those things. The third LOR writer didn't give me a copy of the letter, but although she is the site supervisor I also took a class from, I'm worried that even if she did write a strong letter (she has consistently given me very positive feedback and I got an A in her class, but I got straight As in my master's program), the phd program might discount her recommendation because she is an LPC. I'm also worried about what her letter might be like because her emailed response after I dropped off materials included enthusiasm that I wanted to go on, combined with asking me why I didn't just apply to Argosy instead of a state university.

I had very little research experience, and I don't think that my undergraduate professors even remember me now. It has been nearly 20 years since I have seen most of them. There was one professor that I TAed for back when I was on campus, and also participated in some of her research five years ago as a distance student taking an additional year to renew my academic qualifications. She wrote letters for me five years ago that were over the top and didn't even convince me that it was for real. And I had one more undergraduate professor from five years ago who knows me very well, as I ended up seeing her for therapy after I graduated. I was one of the top students in her class too. But I decided not to ask her for a LOR.

Did I choose wrong in selecting my letter writers? Do you think that I would have a chance this year given these factors (I have decent GRE scores, undergrad GPA 3.54 and master's program GPA 3.96, not a lot of research experience but quite a bit of clinical). If I end up applying again in future years, should I choose differently? How much does GPA from a master's program get considered, as opposed to undergrad? Does it matter that I had a 4.0 for the last year of undergrad, with a 15-year or so gap in between that fifth year and my previous undergraduate work?

I'm starting to get nervous now, and wishing that I will hear something soon. Thanks!

Sorry - it is very hard to make predictions on what will happen. I also am afraid that I cannot comment on counseling programs - I do not have any experience with admissions at this type of program. Sorry I cannot be more helpful.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Hi,
I am trying to understand more about how I might pursue my goal of being a clinical psychologist in light of my low gpa. I have taken a lot of psychology classes and have a strong interest in the field. I have volunteered in a number of different settings with clinical populations. I worked in a professor's lab over one summer. I have taken three different lab courses. I have volunteered with a clinical psychologist. My grades are mixed..some are good and some are not as good. Unfortunately I am expecting one failing grade. I have a history of clinical depression and even though I feel I have coped with it well at college it has affected my performance. I have struggled to maintain confidence in my academic ability and sometimes that has created a self fulfilling prophecy. In my first year I had a 3.4 gpa overall but I lost a lot of confidence in my second year. I am worried that my gpa may go below 3.0 especially with this failing grade. I have a strong academic interest in psychology. I have persevered in the past to get into a good college and to overcome depression. I am considering studying for a year long Msc to get more research experience. Also, I am an international student..I don't know if that will affect my chances of being admitted?
Really my question centers around trying to understand whether it is possible/likely that admissions committees will be able to overlook my low gpa and what I can do to create a more competitive profile. I am a senior and I have one more semester at college. I'm very interested in Psychology and in working hard. I'm not interested in social work. I would really like to get into a Phd program or a strong PsyD program. Is it impossible? Any advice appreciated

With a GPA below 3.0, it will indeed be difficult to get into a clinical phd program. A Masters degree or taking a few graduate classes, with good grades, may help. Excellent research experience also can help.

If you search other options, be sure to check into PsyD, counseling programs, or social work programs. There are many ways to make a difference in the mental health field.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Hi there:

I have a quick etiquette question. First, I'm not a clinical hopeful, I'm applying to brain/behavior programs, but I find this forum to be so informative that I stick around anyway, haha.

Anyway, I have been applying/e-mailing about summer research opportunities, and I spoke with a researcher who told me that he would more than likely be able to give me a spot, but to e-mail him in Feb/March when it's closer to May.

Now, I've (finally) finalized my list of grad. programs to apply to, and I'm starting to contact researchers I'd like to work with. The researcher who I spoke with re: the summer internship is one who I'd like to work with for grad. school. Should I e-mail him, as I've been e-mailing other professors; or should I wait until (or if) I get a spot in his lab? I have no idea if it makes a difference, but his lab. isn't at my undergrad. school.

Thanks in advance!

You can write to this professor about grad school - just let them know that you understand that a RA position would not be a back-door way to get into grad school, and you are simply interested in pursuing several options to get training.

 

[glasscandie]

Thanks! 🙂

 

[futureapppsy2]

...

 

[futureapppsy2]

Hi,

When I apply to programs next year, I'll have two distinct, "strong" research themes (honors theses, etc.) in which I'll be applying for matches. as well as experience in a number of other labs. Would it be best to leave some of the other labs off of my CV/application, so that I don't appear scattered? Thanks! Some of these professors have been my bosses for teaching positions, so I was loathe to say "no" when they asked if I wanted to work with them!

Many thanks!

 

[PsyDApplicant08]

If you have a really high GPA but a really low GRE score, are you immediately tossed?

 

[242598]

.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Hi,

When I apply to programs next year, I'll have two distinct, "strong" research themes (honors theses, etc.) in which I'll be applying for matches. as well as experience in a number of other labs. Would it be best to leave some of the other labs off of my CV/application, so that I don't appear scattered? Thanks! Some of these professors have been my bosses for teaching positions, so I was loathe to say "no" when they asked if I wanted to work with them!

Many thanks!

Leave nothing off! All research experience is good to discuss! You can mention that you have a few main areas, as well as some other research experience - this will not sound scattered.

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

If you have a really high GPA but a really low GRE score, are you immediately tossed?

it is likely that your folder will be less strongly considered

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Wow, I'm so happy I found this! I hope that you can help me resolve an ongoing disagreement between myself and my father.

My father is a tenured professor of literature who has experience in reviewing applications at the undergrad level. As you might have guessed, I am interested studying psychology. However, I also share a love for my father's field of interest and double majored in psychology and literature in college. I'm not going to be submitting any applications until the fall of 2009 but I'm trying to think ahead about what aspects of my life and academic career I'd like to highlight. This is what confuses me:

My father has stressed to me the importance of stressing my unique qualities, i.e. the things that make me different from the 50 other applicants applying for the same spot. I'm going to guess that I have more extensive foreign language skills than most applicants-- I'm trilingual-- and did a lot of research on psychoanalysis as part of my literature major. I don't want to be an analyst but I really enjoyed being able to apply theories of psychoanalysis to classic works of literature and I think that I have a deeper knowledge of the history of psychology than many of my peers. These things make me "interesting", I suppose, and I can relate them to my field of interest (addictions) if needed, but it seems like a stretch.

Also, last month I underwent emergency brain surgery and missed a good deal of time at my job as a research coordinator. (Fortunately, I'm pretty much as good as new and I don't think that this should hinder me in terms of my ability to be a productive grad student.) I suspect that my PI will mention it in his LOR since it has temporarily impacted my ability to be involved on any research projects. Should I also mention this in my personal statement? My father says yes while I'm a bit on the fence. I suppose I can spin it as an example of my tenacity, I'm not sure how relevant it is, especially since I'm not interested in neuroscience.

My instinct is to really focus on my work in the past 2 years in addictions research since this is what I want to continue to study in grad school. To me, it seems logical that this should be the bulk of my personal statment. However, I imagine that everyone else applying to work with these particular professors will be saying that as well. I suspect that my father has a point about making myself memorable, even though I feel he's a tad biased in terms of mentioning my other major.

So, how much secondary information can I include without making it seem like I'm not 100% sure of my field of interest?

I am not sure that differentiating yourself on non-psychology, non-career oriented factors will be THAT important. But a few brief mentions of these unique factors are fine to include, and can help to sound well-rounded. Don't disclose anything you are uncomfortable disclosing, and if you do disclose your past health status, be sure to mention your recovery. (Glad to hear you are doing well!)

The majority of the statement probably should be about your current research interests and experience

 

[wareagle09]

This may have been asked before, and if so I'm sorry. I've read that it's very important to have lots of questions on hand to ask during the interview. What are some questions to ask potential graduate schools to determine if the program is right for you? I've already had a phone interview with my POI, in which I asked a few questions about her research. Thanks for all your help!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

This may have been asked before, and if so I'm sorry. I've read that it's very important to have lots of questions on hand to ask during the interview. What are some questions to ask potential graduate schools to determine if the program is right for you? I've already had a phone interview with my POI, in which I asked a few questions about her research. Thanks for all your help!

You'll want to ask lots of questions on:

Research Opportunities:
1. What is advisor's latest work and what would you be involved in while there?
2. Chances for publication, presentation, grant writing?
3. What is mentor style?
4. How do independent projects develop? Can you add variables, ideas, conditions to ongoing experiments?

Program Responsibilities:
1. What is typical timeline for program milestones and for finishing program?
2. How is funding determined? Summer funding available?
3. How are TA and RA placements assigned?
4. What do most students do after graduation?
5. Is there flexibility in the curriculum?

Program Atmosphere:
1. Competitive? Cut-throat? Cooperative?
2. Cost of living - decent quality of life for students?
3. Collaboration among faculty? among students?

Clinical Experiences:
1. What are prac choices? How much can you decide which rotations you do?
2. Theoretical orientation of the program?
3. What kind of internships are students best prepared for?
4. Clinical work expected over summer?

that's a good start! As you interview at places you will notice that programs vary on many other dimensions as well, and you will naturally find more variables to inquire about.

 

[wareagle09]

Thank you so much!

 

[242598]

I am not sure that differentiating yourself on non-psychology, non-career oriented factors will be THAT important. But a few brief mentions of these unique factors are fine to include, and can help to sound well-rounded. Don't disclose anything you are uncomfortable disclosing, and if you do disclose your past health status, be sure to mention your recovery. (Glad to hear you are doing well!)

The majority of the statement probably should be about your current research interests and experience

Thank you so much for the advice! My stress level about grad school prep has already decreased significantly 🙂

One quicker question this time:
I'm planning on applying this fall and, as previously mentioned, I lost some time to focus on research and academics due to my health. My GRE scores are a 580V/700Q/4W and a 650 on the psych one. (I have a 3.48 GPA, 3.6 in my psych major, from a good liberal arts college-- one of the top 10 in the country, according to US News.) I'm already planning on taking the regular test again to improve my verbal and writing scores. The psych test was difficult for me because the testing conditions were less than ideal (homecoming weekend outside) and I've always had difficulty memorizing names and facts vs. learning formulas. (I've also had some minor problems with memory retrieval since my brain surgery.) Now that my health is better, I have the opportunity to really buckle down and work on some research projects at my job. There's a chance I may even be able to submit a first author paper for publication by the time I'd be prepping my applications. Does it make sense to focus on my research and the regular GRE and forget about taking the psych exam again? It seems like the opinion on this board is that the psych exam is of lesser importance but I wanted to consult with others in the field before I made any definite decisions.

Thanks again for your help!

 

[DrClinPsyAdvice]

Thank you so much for the advice! My stress level about grad school prep has already decreased significantly 🙂

One quicker question this time:
I'm planning on applying this fall and, as previously mentioned, I lost some time to focus on research and academics due to my health. My GRE scores are a 580V/700Q/4W and a 650 on the psych one. (I have a 3.48 GPA, 3.6 in my psych major, from a good liberal arts college-- one of the top 10 in the country, according to US News.) I'm already planning on taking the regular test again to improve my verbal and writing scores. The psych test was difficult for me because the testing conditions were less than ideal (homecoming weekend outside) and I've always had difficulty memorizing names and facts vs. learning formulas. (I've also had some minor problems with memory retrieval since my brain surgery.) Now that my health is better, I have the opportunity to really buckle down and work on some research projects at my job. There's a chance I may even be able to submit a first author paper for publication by the time I'd be prepping my applications. Does it make sense to focus on my research and the regular GRE and forget about taking the psych exam again? It seems like the opinion on this board is that the psych exam is of lesser importance but I wanted to consult with others in the field before I made any definite decisions.

Thanks again for your help!

This is correct - I agree.

 

[psychanxiety]

Hi, I've have an interview question for you. I've been lucky enough to get invites for interviews at two great schools (clinical PhD). I am preparing by practicing answers to potential questions, reviewing my past research, reading up on my POI's research, and thinking about possible thesis ideas. However, neither of the programs mentioned in the invite who I'll be interviewing with. At one of the schools, I listed several faculty members as potential advisors on my personal statement. After I emailed the program to ask who I would interview with, I was told that I'd be interviewing with everyone in the department. How do I prepare for this? Read everyone's work (there's only 5 in the department)? Skim abstracts?
Thanks for all the other great posts!

 

[alleycatpsych]

Hi,

I don't have any questions, I just wanted to say THANK YOU!!! for giving those examples of questions to ask at interviews!