Clinical Program Coordinators

[PhDClinical]

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Hey All,

I'm having some difficulty getting responses (or at least polite responses) from department coordinators at the clinical programs I am applying to. I have asked a few well-researched, SUPER polite questions, and some of the coordinators have either not responded to me at all, or have sent back nasty answers as if I am wasting their time.

I want to reiterate here that I am asking completely legitimate questions (e.g., the form provided online says "2007" -- is there an updated form?) after thoroughly searching websites to make sure the answers aren't posted online. I am also making darn sure to contact the person whom the website indicates as "the person to contact with any further questions." I also make sure that I am being polite and un-entitled. I thank the people for their time and recognize that it is a very busy time of the year.

I'm quite discouraged by one program in particular, where my POI was very responsive and interested in me. Does the department secretary have any sway in the admissions process? Now I'm overthinking things, and wondering if she won't just delete my materials because I had the audacity to ask her a legitimate question.

Oh, and I am also sure to direct questions to the graduate school directly where appropriate, so as not to waste the department's time.

Now I am scared to contact people to make sure my department materials have been received, but if I don't do that then I will probably have an anxiety attack!

Has anyone else had a similar experience? Thoughts?

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

They are often the gatekeepers, and many times they have to deal with very difficult and not-so-polite people, so they may not always be happy and cheery. The fact you have the support of your POI is important. Administrative people in graduate programs can be great resources and great people....but they also can really gum up the process. In most places you just need to find a way to make it work, because they were there before you, and they'll probably be there after you.

 

[kbean]

When I was applying last year and having trouble getting email responses, I just started calling them. I think they get a lot of emails, but if you call you can get them on the phone and they'll answer you right then.