Back Up Plans

[TheOverachiever]

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Doesn't hurt to think about ans set up back up plans

I would apply for an RA job and volunteer at a rape crisis hotline or other similar organization. And of course I would apply again.

 

[starsinnight]

I have my back up plans all set up! After being an RA for 4 years and getting my masters - I'm ready for some new opportunities. And with my GREs so low, I need to get ready, just in case. The job market is BLEAK (for those of you who were recently students) so I have many, many interesting options I will pursue:

#1: move to NY and go to cooking school, my other passion besides psychology
#2: complete training to be a 911 Operator
#3: complete Domestic Violence certification to continue working as a counselor (I am a Mental Health Counselor/Therapist)
#4: Gain licensure
#5: Complete requirements and tests to be a school counselor and a ESE teacher
#6: Research opening a restaurant
#7: Work part-time at Starbucks LOL always wanted to.
#8: Apply for jobs, see which happens first.
#9: Apply to a few more programs next year, just a select few. Like 2. Or 3.
#10: Move on.

 

[TheOverachiever]

I have my back up plans all set up! After being an RA for 4 years and getting my masters - I'm ready for some new opportunities. And with my GREs so low, I need to get ready, just in case. The job market is BLEAK (for those of you who were recently students) so I have many, many interesting options I will pursue:

#1: move to NY and go to cooking school, my other passion besides psychology
#2: complete training to be a 911 Operator
#3: complete Domestic Violence certification to continue working as a counselor (I am a Mental Health Counselor/Therapist)
#4: Gain licensure
#5: Complete requirements and tests to be a school counselor and a ESE teacher
#6: Research opening a restaurant
#7: Work part-time at Starbucks LOL always wanted to.
#8: Apply for jobs, see which happens first.
#9: Apply to a few more programs next year, just a select few. Like 2. Or 3.
#10: Move on.

I love how well prepared you are with different options

 

[phdhopeful2011]

Maybe become a child life specialist and then reapply. I need the money if I don't get in this year and it would give me exposure to working in hospitals with chronically ill children (my passion).

 

[starsinnight]

I love how well prepared you are with different options

Thanks - its very good to remember that life goes on and there ARE other exciting jobs out there.... but I do have to say, just got my first interview! And while I'd love a career at starbucks or any of the others, I can't deny my excitement. 🙂

 

[PsychUndergrad]

Can any current doctoral students suggest a back up plan based on their own experience or expertise in the field? I am wondering if it would be a better idea to work in a research and/or a clinical setting OR work on a Masters program in General Psych until the next doctoral application period.

 

[arsesta]

Can any current doctoral students suggest a back up plan based on their own experience or expertise in the field? I am wondering if it would be a better idea to work in a research and/or a clinical setting OR work on a Masters program in General Psych until the next doctoral application period.

If you majored in psych in ugrad, I wouldn't recommend getting a Masters... just add on more debt than you can handle! Between ugrad and Clinical Psych PhD program, I worked for 1 1/2 yr as a domestic violence counselor and then I switched and did 1 1/2 yr in research at a prestigious, research heavy institution. My backup plan was to intern in an architecture firm and pursue my first love (I ended up getting in and am pretty happy with the psych route). I know how you guys must be feeling right now, so hang in there!!!!

If you're already working in a research lab and you don't get into a Phd program this round, I would highly recommend being more productive (e.g., getting posters/presentations/manuscripts accepted), attending more conferences (=networking), and getting more solid letters of rec from psychologists and/or professors. I don't think getting more clinical experiences would help you that much in terms of getting into a PhD program, but for a psyd, it might be valued.

 

[aagman01]

Yeah - think about becoming a PA or NP, or perhaps a psychiatric nurse. All involve less schooling and salaries approximating double what you would get with your phd in psych.

Can any current doctoral students suggest a back up plan based on their own experience or expertise in the field? I am wondering if it would be a better idea to work in a research and/or a clinical setting OR work on a Masters program in General Psych until the next doctoral application period.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

If you're already working in a research lab and you don't get into a Phd program this round, I would highly recommend being more productive (e.g., getting posters/presentations/manuscripts accepted), attending more conferences (=networking), and getting more solid letters of rec from psychologists and/or professors. I don't think getting more clinical experiences would help you that much in terms of getting into a PhD program, but for a psyd, it might be valued.

Research experience would be valued more in both settings. The kind of clinical experiences you can get with a BA/MS are limited, so go for the better option.

 

[Hopefulhokie]

I'm kind of bummed because I thought I had a pretty good chance at getting in straight out of undergrad (3.89 GPA, 1300 GRE, research experience in 3 labs including a few presentations, clinical experience, etc.), but I haven't received any interview invites thus far. Eight of my schools still haven't sent anything out yet though, so I'm still holding out hope.
However, I realize it's wise to have a backup plan so now I'm deciding between applying to 2 experimental/general psych. Master's programs whose deadlines are in Feb. or finding an RA position. I think I'd rather work as an RA than attend a Master's program, but I know RA jobs are super hard to find, and I like the security of knowing what I'll be doing for the next 2 years. I'm specifically looking at Wake Forest and William & Mary because of the high acceptance rates of their graduates into PhD programs. Does anyone have any experience with either of these programs?

 

[123FakeStreet]

Does anyone know any info. (or have a website suggestion) about obtaining research grants?

This is my second year applying, I've raised my GRE scores, have 2 pubs. (+2 under review), and an MA. I want to continue doing research after my degree if I don't get into a PhD program and thought if I can obtain a grant (small or large) this might make me more competitive when I apply next year. Problem is I have NO idea about this process. Can anyone offer insight?

 

[starsinnight]

I'd second getting the research experience over the clinical experience. Having both - I wish I had more valid research experience (like what was suggested, posters/journals, etc) but after 4 years as an RA that opportunity has never been available.

Anyways, I think the best back-up plan (which was what I did after undergrad) was become a paid full-time RA for a university and get free tuition to complete a masters program. No debt! 😉 (Hint: look directly on the university's job page usually on the human resources website)

 

[PsychUndergrad]

I'd second getting the research experience over the clinical experience. Having both - I wish I had more valid research experience (like what was suggested, posters/journals, etc) but after 4 years as an RA that opportunity has never been available.

Anyways, I think the best back-up plan (which was what I did after undergrad) was become a paid full-time RA for a university and get free tuition to complete a masters program. No debt! 😉 (Hint: look directly on the university's job page usually on the human resources website)

How did you negotiate the free tuition for a masters or did they offer the option to you?

 

[starsinnight]

How did you negotiate the free tuition for a masters or did they offer the option to you?

If you are a full-time employee of most universities, they offer free tuition. Nothing negotiated, part of the benefits that most people aren't aware of. And being a research employee, usually also means you aren't taxed on top of it. It's a good perk.

But with the job market being so rough nowadays, you really have to search EVERYDAY on the career website for the university and apply to every job you see.

 

[cheeze]

yes... finding a job is really impossible right now.... im kind of depressed by the job search. I've been applying to grad school + job hunting at the same time to see what I can get. Been to around 11 job interviews out of 30+ jobs i've applied to and still unemployed. Keep making it to their top 3-5 candidates but not actually getting the job.

Its ridiculous, one interviewer told me he got nearly 100 applications and the gross thing is when your finding a job as a new grad with a BA/BS, you're competing with people of all levels of experience for the same position, even people with 5-10 years of experience - how depressing.

And yes, my credentials are decent with an honors thesis, been in 4 labs, good GPA, upper80/lower90 percentile GRE, and a couple manuscripts - some submitted

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

And yes, my credentials are decent with an honors thesis, been in 4 labs, good GPA, upper80/lower90 percentile GRE, and a couple manuscripts - some submitted

Unforunately, I think people are feeling the pinch everywhere.

 

[BiopsychStudent]

yes... finding a job is really impossible right now.... im kind of depressed by the job search. I've been applying to grad school + job hunting at the same time to see what I can get. Been to around 11 job interviews out of 30+ jobs i've applied to and still unemployed. Keep making it to their top 3-5 candidates but not actually getting the job.

Its ridiculous, one interviewer told me he got nearly 100 applications and the gross thing is when your finding a job as a new grad with a BA/BS, you're competing with people of all levels of experience for the same position, even people with 5-10 years of experience - how depressing.

And yes, my credentials are decent with an honors thesis, been in 4 labs, good GPA, upper80/lower90 percentile GRE, and a couple manuscripts - some submitted

I've gotten the impression a lot of RA jobs on HR sites are "fake" postings and they have a candidate picked ahead of time: Usually someone who contacted the PI and lab through other means, and the posting just being a formality.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

I've gotten the impression a lot of RA jobs on HR sites are "fake" postings and they have a candidate picked ahead of time: Usually someone who contacted the PI and lab through other means, and the posting just being a formality.

Some places have to follow procedure (VA hospitals, public universities, etc) to ensure that an effort is made to recruit a diverse group of possible candidates, akin to The Rooney Rule in the NFL, though it can often be treated as a formality. Networking and informal arrangements are quite common in academia, so it won't be the last time you see this.

 

[JuniperTree]

Since I'm purely research oriented, my back up plan would be to do research in another field, such as endocrinology. The only problem is my lack of chemistry background necessary for a biology field. Being a therapist isn't for me - friends often come to me for social and emotional problems and while it's nice to help, I'd never have the patience to do that as a career.
Teaching on a college level would be great, but it's hard to get such a position without a PhD, so what backup plan would I have if I wouldn't get into grad school?

 

[psydtobe]

if i don't get the funding i am looking for from my program (IF i get accepted ). i already have my masters, which i paid for out of pocket, so i am only repaying my undergrad debt. i feel content with continuing on as a clinician, getting licensed, and see where i go. i have felt slightly discouraged looking at amount of time and money i have to invest for my psyd at times 🙁. i definitely love clinical work and am satisfied with my job. my fear is that if i dont get accepted, in 3 years i will wish i reapplied to programs

 

[BiopsychStudent]

I've received one invite so far and I'm not sure if the program's even funded, so I'm not holding my breath...

For my own backup plan first and foremost I want to be more aggressive about landing an RA job in psychology or molecular biology: I've heard emailing PI's at labs directly can give you a better shot, although I'm not sure if that's true or if it will just be an annoyance.

After that, well... I've been looking into medicine.

 

[GingerTex]

Teaching on a college level would be great, but it's hard to get such a position without a PhD, so what backup plan would I have if I wouldn't get into grad school?

If you could get a project manager type lab position in a university lab, you'd be able to work undergrad, post-bac and grad students, so you'd primarily be managing research activities and contributing ideas but also mentoring students in an unofficial way. I've worked under a few who have made an Enormous difference in my life and taught me So much.

 

[JuniperTree]

If you could get a project manager type lab position in a university lab, you'd be able to work undergrad, post-bac and grad students, so you'd primarily be managing research activities and contributing ideas but also mentoring students in an unofficial way. I've worked under a few who have made an Enormous difference in my life and taught me So much.

That sounds interesting! off i go to do some googling...

 

[Lisa44201]

I'll have a 3.52-ish GPA when I get my BA in Psych in May. Doing research through the Psych Honors program. 1310 GRE (660 Math, 650 Verbal, 4.5 Analytical), 710 Psych GRE. 2 flat-out rejections so far (Nebraska-Lincoln and OSU). Heard nothing from NT, TAMU, TTU (Counseling), USD, UND, Wyoming, and ISU (PsyD). Beginning to panic. I'm in the middle of nowhere (there are more cows than people in this town), so it's not like I have a large University in my back yard that needs an RA. Plan B.1 is to get either an MS or MA in Experimental Psych- per my advisor, it'll give me extra research on my transcript, plus dispel any possible misconception that I am one of those warm fuzzy people who "just wants to help people" (no offense to any warm fuzzy people who might be reading this). Plan B.2 is to get either an MS or MA in Criminology/Criminal Justice (my end-goal is to work in a prison). Plan C is to get a BA in Criminal Justice; that'll keep me busy for a year.

 

[starsinnight]

I've gotten the impression a lot of RA jobs on HR sites are "fake" postings and they have a candidate picked ahead of time: Usually someone who contacted the PI and lab through other means, and the posting just being a formality.

Not fake - but that is how the work world is really. NETWORKING is crucial. For instance, my job used to have 7 RAs and now we are down to 2 (based on budgets) and our 2 jobs may open up soon depending on if we leave to school, etc. So what will we do to fill our very sought after positions? Offer it to the best of the 10 psych volunteer students first. It will still be posted, but jobs typically ask around for a referred employee first, someone you know.

So... that means you need to volunteer at labs you are interested in (you said you have at 4 - keep doing it, open up those doors again and maybe now the timing will be right) or new places of interest. It's not a guarantee but better than applying to places where they just see a paper resume.

I've applied to hundreds, to give you perspective, and only been on 3 interviews. And everyday I get emails saying 'this position has been cancelled/filled.' It's part of the game, but don't give up!

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Plan B.1 is to get either an MS or MA in Experimental Psych- per my advisor, it'll give me extra research on my transcript, plus dispel any possible misconception that I am one of those warm fuzzy people who "just wants to help people" (no offense to any warm fuzzy people who might be reading this). Plan B.2 is to get either an MS or MA in Criminology/Criminal Justice (my end-goal is to work in a prison). Plan C is to get a BA in Criminal Justice; that'll keep me busy for a year.

...I'm with you on the "warm fuzzy people". As for Plan B.1....that is your best option, as getting an MA/MS in Criminology/Criminal Justice will be of minimal use to you. I don't mean to slam criminology programs, but I haven't been impressed by the curriculums I've seen or the people I've met who have completed the degree.

Not fake - but that is how the work world is really. NETWORKING is crucial.

I've applied to hundreds, to give you perspective, and only been on 3 interviews. And everyday I get emails saying 'this position has been cancelled/filled.' It's part of the game, but don't give up!

I am a big believer in networking and professional to professional referrals. The majority of jobs out there will give preference to a referred person than to someone off of the street, mostly because most people look the same on paper. I was a benefactor of networking for my fellowship, and I am sure I wouldn't have landed the caliber of interviews I did if it wasn't for mentors calling TDs/PDs on my behalf. When you have 100+ applicants who all look great on paper, the selection committee is looking for any way they can differentiate one applicant from another.

The good news in all of this....the cream tends to rise to the top, with or without the help, though it can take some time to build up your CV to stand on your own. I was just lamenting to one of the medical residents today about having to "constantly justify my existance" at each job/fellowship/grant interview, but that is just part of the deal. One of these years I'll be on the other side, I just know it!

 

[cheeze]

Hmmm I haven't quite had the same problem, so far I get interviews for every 1/3 jobs I apply to except I usually make it to the top 3 but am not the fortunate one to get the offer.

Not fake - but that is how the work world is really. NETWORKING is crucial. For instance, my job used to have 7 RAs and now we are down to 2 (based on budgets) and our 2 jobs may open up soon depending on if we leave to school, etc. So what will we do to fill our very sought after positions? Offer it to the best of the 10 psych volunteer students first. It will still be posted, but jobs typically ask around for a referred employee first, someone you know.

So... that means you need to volunteer at labs you are interested in (you said you have at 4 - keep doing it, open up those doors again and maybe now the timing will be right) or new places of interest. It's not a guarantee but better than applying to places where they just see a paper resume.

I've applied to hundreds, to give you perspective, and only been on 3 interviews. And everyday I get emails saying 'this position has been cancelled/filled.' It's part of the game, but don't give up!

 

[paramour]

...I'm with you on the "warm fuzzy people". As for Plan B.1....that is your best option, as getting an MA/MS in Criminology/Criminal Justice will be of minimal use to you. I don't mean to slam criminology programs, but I haven't been impressed by the curriculums I've seen or the people I've met who have completed the degree.

RE: the experimental degree - Be forewarned, it MAY limit (or may not) limit your future application opportunities (IT DEPENDS upon the program and the professors who are vetting the applications and their preferences). I ran into this when I was applying, and I'm fairly certain that this has been discussed (& discussed again and then some) around here somewhere. So be prepared for it, and to discuss it when the time comes...

RE: the criminology/criminal justice degree - Completely agree w/ T4C here! Some of the curriculum for a master's would have been less challenging than my undergrad BA, but hey, I could have earned another master's in no time at all while putzing around at other things.

There's still time yet, as it remains early in the application process! G'luck with whatever you end up doing for the next year (or decade)!

 

[ClinicalPHD5]

Keep in mind that getting an internship/post-doc/job in clinical psychology once you get your PhD, is also extremely tough and competitive (hundreds of applicants for 2-3 positions is not uncommon). Basically, one has to fight these days to become and stay afloat as a psychologist. Psychologists are not very well respected and we are lumped together with MSW/MA's for many clinical jobs. I know several people with PhD and PsyD's from good school who are unemployed 6 months after graduating.

Good options that I wished I had known about years ago include becoming a Nurse Practitioner (psychiatry emphasis) or even going into psychiatry. The hoops you will face as a clinical psycholgist are even more than medical school. The demand and salary for these professions are much higher. My friends who just finished residency are making $300,000 at age 30 (NYC and LA) as psychiatrists because there is currently a huge shortage of psychiatrists.