Advice from Prof for Applicants to PhD Programs

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psychanxiety said:
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!
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Just read up on the ones you listed as potential mentors. The other meetings will be a chance for you to task general questions about the program. You won't (shouldn't) be expected to talk about research that is totally out of your area.
 
Are minority applicants viewed differently? I have heard many different perspectives on this sensitive topic, but would like to know what you think.

Thanks for all your help!
 
edpsych said:
Are minority applicants viewed differently? I have heard many different perspectives on this sensitive topic, but would like to know what you think.

Thanks for all your help!
Click to expand...

I think most recognize that the GRE may be biased, and that a broader range of GREs should be considered when looking at scores of under-represented ethnic minorities. In addition, many schools would like to increase their diversity, so extra efforts to recruit ethnic minorities may be evident in some programs.
 
My GRE's are horrible. I have an 1100. I have taken 3 times and don't go above there. I am in my last semester finishing my MA in clinical Psyc and my GPA has always been high (3.7 in UG and 3.6 in G). I have 4 publications right now with 3 more in the works before may. I am first author on 3 of the 4 (1 encyclopedia entry, two really solid journals, and a crappy journal), and may get first authorship on some of the 3 new ones as well (grant funded and the guy doesn't care about publishing, thats how he gets grads as free labor. lol) I have about 8 presentations at mostly regional conferences although i am applying for my first division conference this week. I have served as director of a treatment and internship training center for the past year (5 undergraduate interns I was in charge of, as well as treatment and research of the focus area). I am currently doing my practicum at a regional mental health center providing case management for individuals after release from inpatient care. I have taught numerous college courses (from stand in lecture to full time instruction of an upper level course). My research interests are well refined and my publication/presentation/research record focuses around it in a variety of ways.

Can you suggest how I might be able to bolster my C.V. over the next year and in what area I may need to work hard to make me an attractive candidate? My attempts to get into schools have been difficult and I'm considering spending the next year volunteering as a research assistant in a lab and funding/pursuing my own research. Is this what you would suggest?
 
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Hello,

Thank you for agreeing to lend your professional advice. The previous posts have been really educational for me. I have been preparing to apply to grad programs for two and a half years now. I essentially took many undergrad and graduate courses, accrued three separate research experiences and two clinical research experiences, have a gpa of 3.8, and a 1260 GPA (good enough for the schools which I am applying), am a minority applicant, and am applying to schools which are 50% Research, 50% Clinical. I am heading to my first interview on Friday, and I am concerned about one possible missing element. I have not conducted a study. I did some small ones in Experimental, I attend research meetings as an RA, and I have pretty extensive research experience, but I can't help but be concerned that someone who has conducted a masters thesis or undergrad thesis is going to seem more appealing.

Also, it seems from previous posts you think that during an interview a person should present possible hypotheses. Should we be able to back those up with methodology. That is, should we know how we are actually going to test those hypotheses. I haven't taken research methodology, however I have been around research for a couple years. Is there a way you suggest that I can bone up on information which would help me to design a study on the fly or to improve the quality of a study (reduce error etc.)

And I'm curious if once you are interviewed, is it the interview alone which is taken into consideration, or do the members of the admissions committe revisit the application in order to make the final decision? In essence, are most interviewee invites operating on a level playing field?

Thanks again.
 
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Hello, I am new to this forum, and first I want to say thanks for your help & advice.

I am in a unique (as far as I understand) situation. I have an Associate's degree in nursing and will be graduating with my BA in psychology this May.

I currently work per diem (1-2 shifts a week) in a psychiatric hopsital/clinic. I also work as a research volunteer about 15 hours a week & am doing an independent project that will culminate in a first authorship. My "regular" GPA is ~3.7; my psych GPA is ~ 3.9.

So, the major question I am struggling with is what to do for work when I graduate. I would like to take an RAship to gain research experience; however, this would mean an approx. 50% paycut. I have upwards of 50k in student loans right now and this is fairly scary. However, I want to "confirm" my passion for research with myself before I commit to 5-8 years of graduate training.

My advisor suggested I work as a nurse & volunteer @ a research lab, but I'm not sure how that would look. Also, have you ever seen nurses apply to your program? I am curious as to how this experience would be viewed.

Thanks!
 
Hi...I was wondering how do schools do rejections? Do all of them let you know at least at some point if they are not going to take you? Does it depend on the school? Do they do it by letter, e-mail, or phone call? Or do I have to make assumptions on my own.
 
Cigolon said:
My GRE's are horrible. I have an 1100. I have taken 3 times and don't go above there. I am in my last semester finishing my MA in clinical Psyc and my GPA has always been high (3.7 in UG and 3.6 in G). I have 4 publications right now with 3 more in the works before may. I am first author on 3 of the 4 (1 encyclopedia entry, two really solid journals, and a crappy journal), and may get first authorship on some of the 3 new ones as well (grant funded and the guy doesn't care about publishing, thats how he gets grads as free labor. lol) I have about 8 presentations at mostly regional conferences although i am applying for my first division conference this week. I have served as director of a treatment and internship training center for the past year (5 undergraduate interns I was in charge of, as well as treatment and research of the focus area). I am currently doing my practicum at a regional mental health center providing case management for individuals after release from inpatient care. I have taught numerous college courses (from stand in lecture to full time instruction of an upper level course). My research interests are well refined and my publication/presentation/research record focuses around it in a variety of ways.

Can you suggest how I might be able to bolster my C.V. over the next year and in what area I may need to work hard to make me an attractive candidate? My attempts to get into schools have been difficult and I'm considering spending the next year volunteering as a research assistant in a lab and funding/pursuing my own research. Is this what you would suggest?
Click to expand...

Sounds like you are doing the right things.

For many PhD applications, you will want those GREs to go up. Also consider Counseling Psychology - you can do research and clinical work with this degree as well
 
porcupine proud said:
Hello,

Thank you for agreeing to lend your professional advice. The previous posts have been really educational for me. I have been preparing to apply to grad programs for two and a half years now. I essentially took many undergrad and graduate courses, accrued three separate research experiences and two clinical research experiences, have a gpa of 3.8, and a 1260 GPA (good enough for the schools which I am applying), am a minority applicant, and am applying to schools which are 50% Research, 50% Clinical. I am heading to my first interview on Friday, and I am concerned about one possible missing element. I have not conducted a study. I did some small ones in Experimental, I attend research meetings as an RA, and I have pretty extensive research experience, but I can't help but be concerned that someone who has conducted a masters thesis or undergrad thesis is going to seem more appealing.

Also, it seems from previous posts you think that during an interview a person should present possible hypotheses. Should we be able to back those up with methodology. That is, should we know how we are actually going to test those hypotheses. I haven't taken research methodology, however I have been around research for a couple years. Is there a way you suggest that I can bone up on information which would help me to design a study on the fly or to improve the quality of a study (reduce error etc.)

And I'm curious if once you are interviewed, is it the interview alone which is taken into consideration, or do the members of the admissions committe revisit the application in order to make the final decision? In essence, are most interviewee invites operating on a level playing field?

Thanks again.
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Sounds like you are a very competitive applicant.
Not conducting your own study is not a fatal flaw at all. Your entire research experience is taken into account. If you got an interview, then the school must feel that you are qualified. As for hypotheses, simply being able to demonstrate that you can 'think like a scientist' should be enough. You may informally chat about ideas and research suggestions, but probably not important to study up on methods before you go. Your interest and intellectual curiosity will be hopefully enough to show that you can thrive in a lab. Last, I think most are on a level playing field at the interview. Some may arrive with a closer research match from the start, but generally everyone is a top candidate at the interview and the faculty would be happy to have any of them as a student.

Good luck!
 
ivyleaf said:
Hello, I am new to this forum, and first I want to say thanks for your help & advice.

I am in a unique (as far as I understand) situation. I have an Associate's degree in nursing and will be graduating with my BA in psychology this May.

I currently work per diem (1-2 shifts a week) in a psychiatric hopsital/clinic. I also work as a research volunteer about 15 hours a week & am doing an independent project that will culminate in a first authorship. My "regular" GPA is ~3.7; my psych GPA is ~ 3.9.

So, the major question I am struggling with is what to do for work when I graduate. I would like to take an RAship to gain research experience; however, this would mean an approx. 50% paycut. I have upwards of 50k in student loans right now and this is fairly scary. However, I want to "confirm" my passion for research with myself before I commit to 5-8 years of graduate training.

My advisor suggested I work as a nurse & volunteer @ a research lab, but I'm not sure how that would look. Also, have you ever seen nurses apply to your program? I am curious as to how this experience would be viewed.

Thanks!
Click to expand...

People with all sorts of professional backgrounds apply to grad school, and this is fine - as long as there is enough experience to demonstrate that they can succeed in a doctoral program. Research experience is a must, and volunteer or half-time RA can work well, if you need to keep your day job in the meantime.
 
RejectClinical said:
Hi...I was wondering how do schools do rejections? Do all of them let you know at least at some point if they are not going to take you? Does it depend on the school? Do they do it by letter, e-mail, or phone call? Or do I have to make assumptions on my own.
Click to expand...

This is often handled by the grad school (not the psych department), and may not be processed until months later. Once interview invites have gone out at a school, you can usually ascertain your status. If you are unsure, contact the relevant administrative assistant and they can let you know...
 
DrClinPsyAdvice said:
Sounds like you are a very competitive applicant.
Not conducting your own study is not a fatal flaw at all. Your entire research experience is taken into account. If you got an interview, then the school must feel that you are qualified. As for hypotheses, simply being able to demonstrate that you can 'think like a scientist' should be enough. You may informally chat about ideas and research suggestions, but probably not important to study up on methods before you go. Your interest and intellectual curiosity will be hopefully enough to show that you can thrive in a lab. Last, I think most are on a level playing field at the interview. Some may arrive with a closer research match from the start, but generally everyone is a top candidate at the interview and the faculty would be happy to have any of them as a student.

Good luck!
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Thank you so much. Based on your advice, I reviewed my ideas for potential hypotheses and even possible research methodology with one of the advanced PhD students in my lab, and he affirmed that they were well thought out ideas and that I sound as though I think scientifically. I feel more confident about my interview and about myself as an applicant. This will surely mean that I will be less nervous during my interview which could really make the difference. Thank you again.
 
I feel better as well, reading that information about how being invited to an inteview normally means that you're a top applicant. I also never did an undergrad thesis, so your response applies to me as well. Thank you, even though I didn't ask the question.
 
Hello Dr. ClinPsyAdvice

O.k. here is another GRE question... I'm applying to PhD programs, I have a Master's degree, Lots of research and clinical experience, 4.0 grad GPA

My GREs are ugly and I know if I don't get in this year then my number one priority will be to improve them. However I know when a school gets your scores they are able to see your score history for the last 5 years. So this is what my score report looks like:

1st 440V 600Q
2nd 460V 600Q
3rd 550V 550Q

Most of the programs have 1100-1200 averages. One program strongly recommended a 600 in both areas, but would make exceptions. Here are my questions:

1. Do programs consider your score on a single test session, or do they look at your history for higher scores on an individual area?

2. When a program says they will make exceptions for low scores, what other qualifications will put an application into the "exception zone"?

Thanks!
 
wkupmaggie said:
Hello Dr. ClinPsyAdvice

O.k. here is another GRE question... I'm applying to PhD programs, I have a Master's degree, Lots of research and clinical experience, 4.0 grad GPA

My GREs are ugly and I know if I don't get in this year then my number one priority will be to improve them. However I know when a school gets your scores they are able to see your score history for the last 5 years. So this is what my score report looks like:

1st 440V 600Q
2nd 460V 600Q
3rd 550V 550Q

Most of the programs have 1100-1200 averages. One program strongly recommended a 600 in both areas, but would make exceptions. Here are my questions:

1. Do programs consider your score on a single test session, or do they look at your history for higher scores on an individual area?

2. When a program says they will make exceptions for low scores, what other qualifications will put an application into the "exception zone"?

Thanks!
Click to expand...

Some schools look at most recent GRE and some look at best GRE.
Exceptions may be for students who have extraordinary research experience or letters of reference that indicate that the GRE scores are somehow unrepresentative of the student's potential
 
Hi Doc,

Just a quick question: what is appropriate attire for a fellow on a clinical interview? I've heard everything from dark jeans and a button-down shirt to a suit.

Do you have any thoughts on how to approach this tedious issue that I'm probably dwelling far too much on?

Thanks a million,

d
 
dd123 said:
Hi Doc,

Just a quick question: what is appropriate attire for a fellow on a clinical interview? I've heard everything from dark jeans and a button-down shirt to a suit.

Do you have any thoughts on how to approach this tedious issue that I'm probably dwelling far too much on?

Thanks a million,

d
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A suit. Khakis and a blazer OK too. But most wear a suit.
 
DrClinPsyAdvice said:
A suit. Khakis and a blazer OK too. But most wear a suit.
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This question was asked in a different thread, but what about an interview weekend? If activities are planned for 3 days straight, are you expected to wear a suit the entire time?
 
kapinkkidowski said:
This question was asked in a different thread, but what about an interview weekend? If activities are planned for 3 days straight, are you expected to wear a suit the entire time?
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No, only when meeting with faculty for a formal interview. For other events, business casual is fine (and if just with grad students, then of course even more casual is fine).
 
Is it appropriate to get a reference signed by two professors (I'm doing research work with a grad student who I also TA'ed for, and the supervising professor differed for each role)? Also, is it appropriate to get a letter from a professor with whom I worked intensely for a short period of time (a summer)?

Thanks!
 
futureapppsy2 said:
Is it appropriate to get a reference signed by two professors (I'm doing research work with a grad student who I also TA'ed for, and the supervising professor differed for each role)? Also, is it appropriate to get a letter from a professor with whom I worked intensely for a short period of time (a summer)?

Thanks!
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Sure, both of these are OK.
 
I worked on a book chapter with my PI and was acknowledged as a result of my work... Can I put this on my CV? If so- how do I cite it?

Thanks.
 
Thanks again for taking the time to read all of these questions.
1. I have an interview in about a week and I am stressing about something. Although I have a pretty narrow focus on what I want to research and specialize in (CBT for anxiety, mood, and eating disorders-- efficacy of treatment and nature of the disorders), at this time I don't feel I have a strong enough education from undergrad to conceptualize what I really want to focus on within those areas yet. Do POI's expect you to come to the school/interview knowing what you want to research independantly? I feel like you really need at least a year of graduate school training and working with the particular professor to gauge where you should go. I see in other threads and posts that sometimes they ask about what you think your thesis will be.. and this really worries me. Will just saying what I said be sufficient, or should I really just start figuring out what kind of thesis I want to work on?

2. Also, everyone always says read up about the professor's research that you are interviewing with. Although I understand it's important to know their research for conversation purposes and actual fit, does it come up in interviews in another form? All I can fathom is a professor saying something like "How do you feel your research interests fit with this program)-- and then you'd show you read their articles etc.. but other than that.. how does it come up?
Thanks so much again!!
 
I was just wondering some things I should not do during an interview weekend (that are not so obvious). I know that I should be genuine and show interest in the students, the faculty, and the school. I do realize I should prepare with your questions as well. If we are offered alcohol, should we refrain entirely? What are some questions you recommend asking of the faculty and the students? Thank you so much.
 
DrClinPsyAdvice said:
Sounds like you are doing the right things.

For many PhD applications, you will want those GREs to go up. Also consider Counseling Psychology - you can do research and clinical work with this degree as well
Click to expand...
While all the programs I applied to stated that the GREs were only part of the package and no cuts were made based on that alone, to what degree is that political and how much of that is true? I was surprised to see myself not get at least one interview given my publications, masters degree, GPAs, and general clinical/research experiences. In your experience how much does the GRE actually weigh and is it possible to get in with an 1100 with some massive amount of research (what level of publication do you think would counterbalance it)?

thanks.
 
MorganLilith said:
Thanks again for taking the time to read all of these questions.
1. I have an interview in about a week and I am stressing about something. Although I have a pretty narrow focus on what I want to research and specialize in (CBT for anxiety, mood, and eating disorders-- efficacy of treatment and nature of the disorders), at this time I don't feel I have a strong enough education from undergrad to conceptualize what I really want to focus on within those areas yet. Do POI's expect you to come to the school/interview knowing what you want to research independantly? I feel like you really need at least a year of graduate school training and working with the particular professor to gauge where you should go. I see in other threads and posts that sometimes they ask about what you think your thesis will be.. and this really worries me. Will just saying what I said be sufficient, or should I really just start figuring out what kind of thesis I want to work on?

2. Also, everyone always says read up about the professor's research that you are interviewing with. Although I understand it's important to know their research for conversation purposes and actual fit, does it come up in interviews in another form? All I can fathom is a professor saying something like "How do you feel your research interests fit with this program)-- and then you'd show you read their articles etc.. but other than that.. how does it come up?
Thanks so much again!!
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Hard to say. Some places do not ask for a lot of focus. But if they do, then you're statement above would seem a bit too broad (treatment efficacy + phenomenology is broad; also, the three different classes of disorders you are interested in are pretty broad).

Asking you to talk about your thesis hypotheses seems to be a bit severe, but it would be reasonable to expect a student to have read some articles in an area, be somewhat familiar with the current state of the literature, know what areas require future research, and be able to articulate a broad idea or two about research projects. For instance, in your case, one might be interested in individual factors that moderate treatment outcome for OCD; or factors that are barriers to treatment in Anorexia, etc). In other words, there are many, many questions that can be asked and faculty often feel that a student will be most likely to be successful if they can start identifying some specific areas in which they may pursue questions.
 
RejectClinical said:
I was just wondering some things I should not do during an interview weekend (that are not so obvious). I know that I should be genuine and show interest in the students, the faculty, and the school. I do realize I should prepare with your questions as well. If we are offered alcohol, should we refrain entirely? What are some questions you recommend asking of the faculty and the students? Thank you so much.
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A decent chunk of interviewees are dropped because of:
1. very poor social skills
2. exhibit inappropriate behavior while at the visit, including getting inappropriately drunk, hooking up with graduate students, or speaking poorly about one another

The rest are all contenders, and it really comes down to match with the research advisor. Advisors all look for different things, so the best thing to do is to be yourself and let the process work naturally. You wouldn't want to match with an advisor who will be unpleasant to work with for 5 years.

It's OK to have a drink, but not enough to get buzzed or drunk.
It's OK to have fun and ask about social lives, but this should be in proportion to more questions about the professional aspects of graduate school.
 
Cigolon said:
While all the programs I applied to stated that the GREs were only part of the package and no cuts were made based on that alone, to what degree is that political and how much of that is true? I was surprised to see myself not get at least one interview given my publications, masters degree, GPAs, and general clinical/research experiences. In your experience how much does the GRE actually weigh and is it possible to get in with an 1100 with some massive amount of research (what level of publication do you think would counterbalance it)?

thanks.
Click to expand...

Publications rarely play a very big role in themselves, because they often reflect the contributions of faculty and graduate students more than the applicant. Authorship may have more to do with a generous faculty member who gives out authorship freely than the student's own contributions, in some cases.

GREs help determine whether someone will be successful at graduate level study. Unfortunately, when a programs receives hundreds of applications with high GREs, it is hard to justify selecting someone with low GREs. This year, my program received hundreds of applications - the average GRE score of all of these was in the mid-1200s.
 
Thanks so much for all the helpful answers!
My new question after reading this is, does a large discrepancy between the two types of GRE questions (V and Q vs. Analytical writing) make any difference? I got an 1160 total score but then a 5.5 (90th percentile) on the writing portion. I have documented difficulties stemming back from elementary school with standardized tests multiple choice questions (which I have heard many other people say they do as well). What do schools do when they see that people have such markedly different scores on the two different types of questions? I know that AW is very new so not many people look at that as much as the other, but I can't help but think that something like that has to at least catch their attention. I have gotten a couple interviews, so I would assume that some schools looked past the GRE and at the whole package, but I wonder if it will be brought up in my interviews...

DrClinPsyAdvice said:
Publications rarely play a very big role in themselves, because they often reflect the contributions of faculty and graduate students more than the applicant. Authorship may have more to do with a generous faculty member who gives out authorship freely than the student's own contributions, in some cases.

GREs help determine whether someone will be successful at graduate level study. Unfortunately, when a programs receives hundreds of applications with high GREs, it is hard to justify selecting someone with low GREs. This year, my program received hundreds of applications - the average GRE score of all of these was in the mid-1200s.
Click to expand...
 
🙁Hi Doctor Clinical Advice,

So I had an interview and I walked away feeling great. I really thought I nailed it. Over the last couple days though I have been going over my answers to some of the questions and I think I made a big mistake. So on a research orientation scale of 1-7 (7 being total research) the school is approximately a 5. I may have mentioned offhandedly that a professor had once told me that I would have to choose between having a private practice and being a researcher becuase I would simply not have time to do both. I said that "My first reaction was, Man! I guess I'll have to go to a PsyD, but after working in psychotherapy research for such an extended period of time and seeing professors do both, I found that I am simply not willing to accept that option and I am determined to do both." (Aaargh! I can't believe I said that I considered a PsyD). The professor then asked me, if I had to choose between being a clinician and a researcher which I would choose. Mind you, this professor is someone who studies research methodology. I explained that I simply could not choose because I want my research to inform my clinical practice and visa versa. But he asked me twice more (emphatically!) if I had no choice and I had to pick, which would I choose. After a couple responses of "I couldn't choose" I finally gave in and said plainly... "Clinician....because what would I have to research if I couldn't practice." His immediate reaction was to smile and at first I thought he was impressed by the notion because he currently sees patients. But now I think he was pleased that he had pegged me. I was now someone who was ultimatley interested in being a clinician and was not a serious scientist. I think my ship is sunk. This professor was only one of the professors I am interested in working with and the other interviews went amazing, particularly the one with my number one POI. But this particular professor is in a high position. What do you think? Is my goose cooked? I am genuinely committed to research and I must have said 5 times that I would not want to do clinical work without research and I would not want to do research without clinical work, that I am determined to do both. I haven't follow up emailed him since the interview yet. Should I mention something in the e-mail emphasizing my commitment to research? Please help. I think I misrepresented my position and I don't want him to think he would be doing me a favor by sparing me 5 years of research. 🙁
 
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MorganLilith said:
Thanks so much for all the helpful answers!
My new question after reading this is, does a large discrepancy between the two types of GRE questions (V and Q vs. Analytical writing) make any difference? I got an 1160 total score but then a 5.5 (90th percentile) on the writing portion. I have documented difficulties stemming back from elementary school with standardized tests multiple choice questions (which I have heard many other people say they do as well). What do schools do when they see that people have such markedly different scores on the two different types of questions? I know that AW is very new so not many people look at that as much as the other, but I can't help but think that something like that has to at least catch their attention. I have gotten a couple interviews, so I would assume that some schools looked past the GRE and at the whole package, but I wonder if it will be brought up in my interviews...
Click to expand...

If you got an interview then you made it through the GRE step. I doubt anyone will ask you about it.
 
Curious Kat said:
🙁Hi Doctor Clinical Advice,

So I had an interview and I walked away feeling great. I really thought I nailed it. Over the last couple days though I have been going over my answers to some of the questions and I think I made a big mistake. So on a research orientation scale of 1-7 (7 being total research) the school is approximately a 5. I may have mentioned offhandedly that a professor had once told me that I would have to choose between having a private practice and being a researcher becuase I would simply not have time to do both. I said that "My first reaction was, Man! I guess I'll have to go to a PsyD, but after working in psychotherapy research for such an extended period of time and seeing professors do both, I found that I am simply not willing to accept that option and I am determined to do both." (Aaargh! I can't believe I said that I considered a PsyD). The professor then asked me, if I had to choose between being a clinician and a researcher which I would choose. Mind you, this professor is someone who studies research methodology. I explained that I simply could not choose because I want my research to inform my clinical practice and visa versa. But he asked me twice more (emphatically!) if I had no choice and I had to pick, which would I choose. After a couple responses of "I couldn't choose" I finally gave in and said plainly... "Clinician....because what would I have to research if I couldn't practice." His immediate reaction was to smile and at first I thought he was impressed by the notion because he currently sees patients. But now I think he was pleased that he had pegged me. I was now someone who was ultimatley interested in being a clinician and was not a serious scientist. I think my ship is sunk. This professor was only one of the professors I am interested in working with and the other interviews went amazing, particularly the one with my number one POI. But this particular professor is in a high position. What do you think? Is my goose cooked? I am genuinely committed to research and I must have said 5 times that I would not want to do clinical work without research and I would not want to do research without clinical work, that I am determined to do both. I haven't follow up emailed him since the interview yet. Should I mention something in the e-mail emphasizing my commitment to research? Please help. I think I misrepresented my position and I don't want him to think he would be doing me a favor by sparing me 5 years of research. 🙁
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Sorry, it is really hard to say. Some professors understand that most students pursue clinical work and they are OK with it. Others want only future academicians in their lab.

I know you are concentrating on getting in right now, but remember, if your honest answer keeps you out of that school - maybe that is a good thing. If you went somewhere that didn't hold the same values as you, you would be uncomfortable and feeling pressured for 5 years. Many find this a worse fate.
 
Hi Doc, along the same vein as the above, what is a great answer for 'why do you want pursue a career in research?' While practicing I find myself repeating that I'm passionate about it and that it is very fulfilling in a way no other profession is but this seems too vague...any suggestions for a top notch answer?
 
Dr.ClinPsyAdvice,

Do you have any suggestion as to what to do when one has appiled to study with one or two professors who are positive about one's chances and then another professor from the same schools expresses interest in one's application? Another professor contacted me asking if I would be interested in working with him but did say that this would not interfere with the other professors, with whom I have been in contact, whom he said would be talking to me. Wouldn't this type of situation create animosity or tension between the professors if they are each trying to recruit the same student?
 
jennigold said:
Hi Doc, along the same vein as the above, what is a great answer for 'why do you want pursue a career in research?' While practicing I find myself repeating that I'm passionate about it and that it is very fulfilling in a way no other profession is but this seems too vague...any suggestions for a top notch answer?
Click to expand...

Hard to say, because this is really up to individual and personal reasons. Some want to help the field, help society, inform prevention/intervention research. Some just find it fascinating, interesting, exciting.
 
GiantSteps said:
Dr.ClinPsyAdvice,

Do you have any suggestion as to what to do when one has appiled to study with one or two professors who are positive about one's chances and then another professor from the same schools expresses interest in one's application? Another professor contacted me asking if I would be interested in working with him but did say that this would not interfere with the other professors, with whom I have been in contact, whom he said would be talking to me. Wouldn't this type of situation create animosity or tension between the professors if they are each trying to recruit the same student?
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Some schools don't accept students to work with only one mentor. They may have students come in who are a match to several people and then let things take their course from there.

As long as you are honest in this process - expressing interest where you really have it, then you should be fine. If 1 person clearly is the best match for you, then you should make your primary interest in that person known. You don't want to make it seem as if you are saying whatever you think they want to hear, and you also don't want to get stuck in a lab with someone who's research is not truly of interest. Hope this is helpful,
 
Hi Dr.

Thank you again for all of your help!

For programs that do not follow a typical mentorship model, I am wondering how they admit students. Let's say a program has 12 spots: do they admit about 15-18, and then hope that about 12 will matriculate? Or do you think they are more likely to accept the top 12 picks, then wait until someone says no, and accept one more in their place, and so on, keeping it at 12 the whole time? If it varies, do you have any sense of which practice might be more common?
 
greenmac said:
Hi Dr.

Thank you again for all of your help!

For programs that do not follow a typical mentorship model, I am wondering how they admit students. Let's say a program has 12 spots: do they admit about 15-18, and then hope that about 12 will matriculate? Or do you think they are more likely to accept the top 12 picks, then wait until someone says no, and accept one more in their place, and so on, keeping it at 12 the whole time? If it varies, do you have any sense of which practice might be more common?
Click to expand...

I believe the latter process is more common, although some less competitive programs may use the former.
 
1. I have an interview for a clinical program and I was advised by my undergraduate thesis advisor not appear to be "too eager". What do you think about that? I'm definitely excited because this is my first choice school.

2. How would the program committee view a mature applicant (mid 30's) with a spouse and 2 kids (3 & 6 y/o)?

3. I don't need funding because I have a passive income stream from my business. Is that a point I should mention or is that something I should say only when they ask how I am going to support myself? What is the best way to convey that information?

4. Is it proper etiquette to ask your POI how many other students they are interviewing? What about asking how you did during the interview or what their impressions of you are?

Thank you.
 
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Hi! Thank you so much for volunteering to answer so many questions!

I had my first clinical phd interview this past weekend and was wondering what the normal procedure is for sending thank you notes. Is it important to send handwritten notes or will email work just as well? I interviewed with two profs and two students---should I send a thank you to all four of them or just the professor I applied to work with?

Thank you!!!
 
psychgrad said:
1. I have an interview for a clinical program and I was advised by my undergraduate thesis advisor not appear to be "too eager". What do you think about that? I'm definitely excited because this is my first choice school.

Enthusiasm never hurts, but I suppose being pushy about it could come off poorly.

2. How would the program committee view a mature applicant (mid 30's) with a spouse and 2 kids (3 & 6 y/o)?

Fine. Not sure this would be considered relevant at all.

3. I don't need funding because I have a passive income stream from my business. Is that a point I should mention or is that something I should say only when they ask how I am going to support myself? What is the best way to convey that information?

The program needs to fund everyone - it is a dangerous precedent if they start admitting folks based on their own means to fund themselves.

4. Is it proper etiquette to ask your POI how many other students they are interviewing? What about asking how you did during the interview or what their impressions of you are?

These may seem too pushy.

Thank you.
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....
 
suerte said:
Hi! Thank you so much for volunteering to answer so many questions!

I had my first clinical phd interview this past weekend and was wondering what the normal procedure is for sending thank you notes. Is it important to send handwritten notes or will email work just as well? I interviewed with two profs and two students---should I send a thank you to all four of them or just the professor I applied to work with?

Thank you!!!
Click to expand...

Email is fine. 1 note to your main person is fine, especially if you include a shout out of gratitude to the others within that 1 note.
 
DrClinPsyAdvice, this thread has been an invaluable resource and thank you for all your help! Earlier in the thread, someone asked about having two research interests. You responded by stating that the applicant should focus on the interest that most closely matches the POI. I have a similar question but with a little twist. I applied to a school and in my SOP I indicated interest in topic A. None of the professors in that area were accepting students. However, my background is topic B. A professor I did not mention emailed me asking if I would be a fit for their lab. After reviewing a few research articles and the lab, I realized the topic was secondary interest, topic C. I emailed her some research proposals on topic C and I was ultimately offered an interview. My questions are:
1.. .Should I still prepare for why I am interested in topic A?
2.. .My background is in topic B and I always imagined I would continue with this research subject throughout my career (substance abuse). Luckily, my new POI has a strong background in this area as well. Should I prepare for the interview solely on the research proposals I sent her or, should I also express my interest in topic B?
I hope this made sense and any help would be greatly appreciated!
 
ClinicalPsych09 said:
DrClinPsyAdvice, this thread has been an invaluable resource and thank you for all your help! Earlier in the thread, someone asked about having two research interests. You responded by stating that the applicant should focus on the interest that most closely matches the POI. I have a similar question but with a little twist. I applied to a school and in my SOP I indicated interest in topic A. None of the professors in that area were accepting students. However, my background is topic B. A professor I did not mention emailed me asking if I would be a fit for their lab. After reviewing a few research articles and the lab, I realized the topic was secondary interest, topic C. I emailed her some research proposals on topic C and I was ultimately offered an interview. My questions are:
1.Should I still prepare for why I am interested in topic A?
2.My background is in topic B and I always imagined I would continue with this research subject throughout my career (substance abuse). Luckily, my new POI has a strong background in this area as well. Should I prepare for the interview solely on the research proposals I sent her or, should I also express my interest in topic B?
I hope this made sense and any help would be greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...

Sorry, this is a bit confusing. The bottom line is that you should be as honest about your research interests as possible. If there is some true overlap with the person you are interviewing with, you most certainly should discuss this. But if you heart is set on area A, then you may be disappointed if you do not get a chance to study this in graduate school.

Some students are very set on an area, and others are somewhat flexible. It sounds like you will need to make some tough decisions about just how flexible you will be willing to be.
 
Hello,

I have been invited to an interview, which is in 1 week, and when I looked at my essay I named five or six areas which I am interested in. I am genuinely interested in the topics but do not have much specific knowledge about them, or about the research which the professors are currently conducting. I am searching Psych lit for recent articles but it is proving an impossible task. I simply can't find recent or relevant articles for most of them.

Is it appropriate to e-mail the professors at the schools which I am interested in and request some literature which is indicative of the direction of their current research, or will that immediately convey a lack of knowledge of their research?

Also, I haven't accepted the interview yet. If I am not notified about the specific person I am interviewing with than how should I prepare? Is that even possible, or do all schools tell you who atleast 1 or 2 of your inteviewers are?

Thanks
 
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I have a question about contacting POIs after you find out you were rejected (for example, if you really want to work with them, and want to re-apply next year). I contacted my first choice POI via email, because I had heard a lot of conflicting information about getting a master's degree vs more research experience, etc. He said the best thing to do is get experience in "basic psychological research." This is what I do now. Can you shed any light on etiquette for these sorts of inquiries, and/or what you believe is the best kind of basic psychological research to be involved in?
Thank you
 
First of all I just want to say thank you for being so helpful in this process! I have a couple of questions about interviewing and the acceptance process. I interviewed over the weekend at a program that had two separate interview dates and I attended the first. The faculty were interviewing three times the number of applicants that they were accepting and made it clear that they would not be giving out any offers until after the second interview date. However, only an hour after the interview they accepted one of the interviewees for the program. Is this a common occurrence and should I be worried about my own position? Also, I felt like my interview went well and during it one of the faculty members that I was interviewing with mentioned that I had been nominated for a fellowship. Would this normally help my chances of getting in? Thanks again for all of your help!!!!
 
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