WAMC: What Are My Chances

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.
xMJ said:
I would like to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience from a UC (CA). I would love to teach, like to practice, and perhaps do research. My BA was in Psychology. Thank you.
Click to expand...

If you want to go to a UC for anything, you'll need to reorder those priorities in your personal statement: research first and foremost.
 
I see. I have done extensive research, which I began in 1999 (2 internships as well). Research is, I considered, a given, right? I'm more concerned about my GRE, preq/math/sci/UG GPA and whether dropping out of my MS program is advisable if it's not working for me... thank you.
 
Sorry, was kidding. Neurology is the MD route, try posting in some of the forums there. You can't practice with a PhD in neuroscience.
 
I stand corrected; I was vague. If I decide to practice in the future, I would be applying for medical school. My focus presently is simply applying for the PhD. How do I stack up and what do I need to do/improve?
 
So you're going to complete a PhD and then go back to medical school?
 
1. finish the masters. your grad GPA is good and you'll need that to make up for the low UG GPA (i.e. show that you can handle grad level coursework). finish your thesis.

2. bring up the GRE
 
paramour said:
So you're going to complete a PhD and then go back to medical school?
Click to expand...
I wish to complete the PhD and do research and teach, simultaneously. Medical school is something I will consider in the future, but not prepared to apply for at this time.
 
paramour said:
And in what field is your master's degree?
Click to expand...
My Master's Degree is in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program is now flailing with budget cuts doubling my graduation prospect -I have completed my first year and now it will take 2, not 1 more to complete. Classes are cancelled, not offered, overlapping, and there is a 9 unit maximum imposed.
 
wigflip said:
1. finish the masters. your grad GPA is good and you'll need that to make up for the low UG GPA (i.e. show that you can handle grad level coursework). finish your thesis.

2. bring up the GRE
Click to expand...
Do I need to graduate for my Master's GPA to count?
 
xMJ said:
Do I need to graduate for my Master's GPA to count?
Click to expand...

Given your other stats, I think finishing would be prudent if it's possible. You can always send out a few doctoral apps this year as a "test run" while continuing in your program if and until you get a doctoral acceptance.
 
wigflip said:
Given your other stats, I think finishing would be prudent if it's possible. You can always send out a few doctoral apps this year as a "test run" while continuing in your program if and until you get a doctoral acceptance.
Click to expand...
Noted, thank you.
 
My GRE Scores: Verbal 430, Quant 510, Analy 4.5
UG GPA = 3.2
Current GPA (started MS, Psy but would like to pull out) = 3.93
Gen BIO: B+
Gen CHEM: C,B
CALC I: C
Gen PHYS I: C
English: C,C,B
Res Meth: B
Adv Res Meth: B+,A-
STATs: A
STATs Res Design: B
Psychopathology: A
Psy GPA: A
Extensive research (ran projects, presentations, labs, unpublished)
Scheduled another GRE and PSY subject.

Now what?
 
xMJ said:
My GRE Scores: Verbal 430, Quant 510, Analy 4.5
UG GPA = 3.2
Current GPA (started MS, Psy but would like to pull out) = 3.93
Gen BIO: B+
Gen CHEM: C,B
CALC I: C
Gen PHYS I: C
English: C,C,B
Res Meth: B
Adv Res Meth: B+,A-
STATs: A
STATs Res Design: B
Psychopathology: A
Psy GPA: A
Extensive research (ran projects, presentations, labs, unpublished)
Scheduled another GRE and PSY subject.

Now what?
Click to expand...

Study your butt off for the GRE. What sort of programs are you planning on applying to?
 
Major & minor: Psych and biology.
CGPA: 3.4
PsychGPA: 3.99
GRE: 1040 I'm taking it again soon and got a 300 on the new mock. Might as well use my old score in your thought, though.
Research experience:
-I conducted an independent study (designed, wrote, ran the analyses, etc.) and am weighing on whether to send to Psi Chi journal or just do a regional poster.
-Will have completed a manuscript with my mentor that we are sending to Journal of Clinical and Social Psychology.
-1 regional poster, 3rd author. 1 national poster, 3rd author.
-Will have worked roughly 2 years in one lab and more than a semester in another lab by application.
LOR: 3 strong ones, all from professors I've taken classes from and done research with.
Other: Psi Chi historian this year. I may be tutoring APA/scientific writing this fall and will most likely do a few more regional posters with fellow Psi Chi members and my lab.

Schools I plan to apply to:
Miami University (OH)
Auburn University
Kent State
Oklahoma State University
Ohio State University
Rutgers PhD
University of Alabama- Birmingham
University of Arkansas
University of Missouri
University of North Texas
University of Utah
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Georgia (maybe)
University of Tulsa (maybe)
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (maybe)

All of these schools (except ones labeled maybe) I have strong research matches with a professor. If anyone knows of POIs that study BPD/ emotional dysregulation and eating disorders/behaviors that I do not have their uni listed, please mention them.

Experimental Masters back-up programs:
Southeastern Louisiana University (They have a good tuition remission/stipend and I have a research match!)
Georgia Southern University (same as Southeastern La uni w/ $ and POI)
University of Louisiana- Monroe
University of Alabama- Huntsville
Augusta State University
Missouri State University

Anything you've heard about these programs would be appreciated. I'm pretty sure I can get into any of them.
 
mewtoo said:
Major & minor: Psych and biology.
CGPA: 3.4
PsychGPA: 3.99
GRE: 1040 I'm taking it again soon and got a 300 on the new mock. Might as well use my old score in your thought, though.
Research experience:
-I conducted an independent study (designed, wrote, ran the analyses, etc.) and am weighing on whether to send to Psi Chi journal or just do a regional poster.
-Will have completed a manuscript with my mentor that we are sending to Journal of Clinical and Social Psychology.
-1 regional poster, 3rd author. 1 national poster, 3rd author.
-Will have worked roughly 2 years in one lab and more than a semester in another lab by application.
LOR: 3 strong ones, all from professors I've taken classes from and done research with.
Other: Psi Chi historian this year. I may be tutoring APA/scientific writing this fall and will most likely do a few more regional posters with fellow Psi Chi members and my lab.

Schools I plan to apply to:
Miami University (OH)
Auburn University
Kent State
Oklahoma State University
Ohio State University
Rutgers PhD
University of Alabama- Birmingham
University of Arkansas
University of Missouri
University of North Texas
University of Utah
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Georgia (maybe)
University of Tulsa (maybe)
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (maybe)

All of these schools (except ones labeled maybe) I have strong research matches with a professor. If anyone knows of POIs that study BPD/ emotional dysregulation and eating disorders/behaviors that I do not have their uni listed, please mention them.

Experimental Masters back-up programs:
Southeastern Louisiana University (They have a good tuition remission/stipend and I have a research match!)
Georgia Southern University (same as Southeastern La uni w/ $ and POI)
University of Louisiana- Monroe
University of Alabama- Huntsville
Augusta State University
Missouri State University

Anything you've heard about these programs would be appreciated. I'm pretty sure I can get into any of them.
Click to expand...

Your GRE will likely prevent you from getting looked at for most of the PhD programs. Also, you will not have enough research experience to be competitive for many of them, depending on the POI. I would strongly consider getting more research experience and buying more time to study for the GRE, whether it's a solid masters program or a full-time RA gig. Good luck! :luck:
 
mewtoo said:
Major & minor: Psych and biology.
CGPA: 3.4
PsychGPA: 3.99
GRE: 1040 I'm taking it again soon and got a 300 on the new mock. Might as well use my old score in your thought, though.
Research experience:
-I conducted an independent study (designed, wrote, ran the analyses, etc.) and am weighing on whether to send to Psi Chi journal or just do a regional poster.
-Will have completed a manuscript with my mentor that we are sending to Journal of Clinical and Social Psychology.
-1 regional poster, 3rd author. 1 national poster, 3rd author.
-Will have worked roughly 2 years in one lab and more than a semester in another lab by application.
LOR: 3 strong ones, all from professors I've taken classes from and done research with.
Other: Psi Chi historian this year. I may be tutoring APA/scientific writing this fall and will most likely do a few more regional posters with fellow Psi Chi members and my lab.

Schools I plan to apply to:
Miami University (OH)
Auburn University
Kent State
Oklahoma State University
Ohio State University
Rutgers PhD
University of Alabama- Birmingham
University of Arkansas
University of Missouri
University of North Texas
University of Utah
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Georgia (maybe)
University of Tulsa (maybe)
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (maybe)

All of these schools (except ones labeled maybe) I have strong research matches with a professor. If anyone knows of POIs that study BPD/ emotional dysregulation and eating disorders/behaviors that I do not have their uni listed, please mention them.

Experimental Masters back-up programs:
Southeastern Louisiana University (They have a good tuition remission/stipend and I have a research match!)
Georgia Southern University (same as Southeastern La uni w/ $ and POI)
University of Louisiana- Monroe
University of Alabama- Huntsville
Augusta State University
Missouri State University

Anything you've heard about these programs would be appreciated. I'm pretty sure I can get into any of them.
Click to expand...

For eating disorders: Jillon Vander Wal at Saint Louis University studies night eating syndrome (and maybe also bulimia? can't remember). Also Linda Craighead at Emory studies obesity (developed the appetite awareness program), Tracy Tylka (not sure where she is now) studies body image / eating behaviors, and Anna Bardone-Cone studies bulimia and perfectionism at UNC-Chapel Hill. Kelly Klump also does eating disorder research, although I think her recent stuff is more obesity-focused. The last few people are at pretty competitive schools (again, not sure about Tracy Tylka) but if you raise your GRE score you might have a decent chance at them. Hope this helps! 🙂
 
PsychPhDStudent said:
Your GRE will likely prevent you from getting looked at for most of the PhD programs. Also, you will not have enough research experience to be competitive for many of them, depending on the POI. I would strongly consider getting more research experience and buying more time to study for the GRE, whether it's a solid masters program or a full-time RA gig. Good luck! :luck:
Click to expand...

I actually think his/her research experience should stack up decently compared with the average serious applicant: a little over 2 years' worth of lab experience, 1 independent study project, 2 posters, 1 manuscript in prep. That's just my opinion, though, and doesn't hold if applying to clinical science programs.

Agree that the GRE is going to be a sticking point for many sites, though. If you could raise it above 1100, that would help a bit; above 1200 would make a significant difference.
 
AcronymAllergy said:
I actually think his/her research experience should stack up decently compared with the average serious applicant: a little over 2 years' worth of lab experience, 1 independent study project, 2 posters, 1 manuscript in prep. That's just my opinion, though, and doesn't hold if applying to clinical science programs.

Agree that the GRE is going to be a sticking point for many sites, though. If you could raise it above 1100, that would help a bit; above 1200 would make a significant difference.
Click to expand...

Yes, I agree -- I was so focused on the Clinical Science programs on the list (I am at one of them) that I completely overlooked the majority that weren't. 👍 Thanks for the followup, AA. So...mewtoo, just make sure you play up that research experience and the skills you have if you do choose to proceed with the Clinical Science programs.
 
PsychPhDStudent said:
Yes, I agree -- I was so focused on the Clinical Science programs on the list (I am at one of them) that I completely overlooked the majority that weren't. 👍 Thanks for the followup, AA. So...mewtoo, just make sure you play up that research experience and the skills you have if you do choose to proceed with the Clinical Science programs.
Click to expand...

No problem, and definitely agreed re: your later point. Having attended a relatively balanced (albeit skewed ever so slightly toward research) program myself, it's my only basis of direct comparison, and so you certainly have better information regarding the types of applicants who would be competitive at a site such as yours.

But yes, really play up the research experience, interests, and goals for the clinical science programs, mewtoo. And realize that because your CV might be on the lower side of the spectrum compared to some of the applications they receive, try not to become discouraged if those particular programs don't end up working out this cycle.
 
mewtoo said:
Major & minor: Psych and biology.
CGPA: 3.4
PsychGPA: 3.99
GRE: 1040 I'm taking it again soon and got a 300 on the new mock. Might as well use my old score in your thought, though.
Research experience:
-I conducted an independent study (designed, wrote, ran the analyses, etc.) and am weighing on whether to send to Psi Chi journal or just do a regional poster.
-Will have completed a manuscript with my mentor that we are sending to Journal of Clinical and Social Psychology.
-1 regional poster, 3rd author. 1 national poster, 3rd author.
-Will have worked roughly 2 years in one lab and more than a semester in another lab by application.
LOR: 3 strong ones, all from professors I've taken classes from and done research with.
Other: Psi Chi historian this year. I may be tutoring APA/scientific writing this fall and will most likely do a few more regional posters with fellow Psi Chi members and my lab.

Schools I plan to apply to:
Miami University (OH)
Auburn University
Kent State
Oklahoma State University
Ohio State University
Rutgers PhD
University of Alabama- Birmingham
University of Arkansas
University of Missouri
University of North Texas
University of Utah
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Georgia (maybe)
University of Tulsa (maybe)
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (maybe)

All of these schools (except ones labeled maybe) I have strong research matches with a professor. If anyone knows of POIs that study BPD/ emotional dysregulation and eating disorders/behaviors that I do not have their uni listed, please mention them.

Experimental Masters back-up programs:
Southeastern Louisiana University (They have a good tuition remission/stipend and I have a research match!)
Georgia Southern University (same as Southeastern La uni w/ $ and POI)
University of Louisiana- Monroe
University of Alabama- Huntsville
Augusta State University
Missouri State University

Anything you've heard about these programs would be appreciated. I'm pretty sure I can get into any of them.
Click to expand...

Are you currently an undergrad (i.e., will you be applying during your senior year?).

I agree with others that your GRE will be hurdle, and tbh, I don't think your relatively low cGPA will help much. A 3.4 in and of its probably wouldn't be a problem with high average or above GRE scores, but coupled with a low GRE, you may get screened out a lot or have some questions raised about your academic ability (justified or not). Do you have a strong upward trend and/or an odd semester/year that brought down your GPA and could be explained by extenuating circumstances? Those could help ameliorate the issue some.

If you're going for more balanced programs, I might be wary about an experimental masters, if just because I ancedotally had a friend who applied to balanced PhD programs out of an experimental masters programs and had issues getting interviews, possibly because she seemed *too* research focused. Of course, that's just speculation and n=1, so don't put too much stock in it.
 
xMJ said:
I stand corrected; I was vague. If I decide to practice in the future, I would be applying for medical school. My focus presently is simply applying for the PhD. How do I stack up and what do I need to do/improve?
Click to expand...

If you really want to practice neurology AND get a PhD, look into MSTP MD/PhD programs, as they combine (and fund) both degrees and possibly cut off a year or two from the PhD time. It's a still a long route, though--I *think* the minimal time is 7 years (4 for MD, 3 for PhD), but don't quote me on that.
 
What are my chances: 161 Verbal, 154 Quantitative, 4.0 GPA Masters, 3.9 GPA Undergrad. I want to go to a Counseling Psychology Ph.D. program at a school like Columbia or NYU?
 
futureapppsy2 said:
Are you currently an undergrad (i.e., will you be applying during your senior year?).

I agree with others that your GRE will be hurdle, and tbh, I don't think your relatively low cGPA will help much. A 3.4 in and of its probably wouldn't be a problem with high average or above GRE scores, but coupled with a low GRE, you may get screened out a lot or have some questions raised about your academic ability (justified or not). Do you have a strong upward trend and/or an odd semester/year that brought down your GPA and could be explained by extenuating circumstances? Those could help ameliorate the issue some.

If you're going for more balanced programs, I might be wary about an experimental masters, if just because I ancedotally had a friend who applied to balanced PhD programs out of an experimental masters programs and had issues getting interviews, possibly because she seemed *too* research focused. Of course, that's just speculation and n=1, so don't put too much stock in it.
Click to expand...

Yes, I am an undergrad applying my senior year. I've had an upward trend (been on the deans list and president list the last 3 semesters). My first year and half of my second year grades were lower due to me having severe (as in about to die/need organ transplant) and undiagnosed autoimmune disorders. I raised my CGPA from a 2.9-ish to a 3.4 since then.

I didn't even realize it was possible to be too research focused for clinical psych (except for PsyDs of course). I thought a masters may be better than just RA experience due to my GPA.
 
Thanks for the advice AA and PsychPhDStudent. My goal is to try to raise my GRE score to at least 1100 so I'll have a better shot (though a 1200 would be nice 😀). I'm fully aware that I'm basically bottom of the barrel GPA and GRE wise so I'm hoping the strong research match, good LOR, and a good personal essay (just started reading that "write your way into the grad school of your choice" book) will at least get my foot in the door. So do you guys think I have at least part of a chance at getting into any of those programs?

Thanks for the suggestions dumbledoresgirl. I'll definitely look into them.
 
mewtoo said:
Yes, I am an undergrad applying my senior year. I've had an upward trend (been on the deans list and president list the last 3 semesters). My first year and half of my second year grades were lower due to me having severe (as in about to die/need organ transplant) and undiagnosed autoimmune disorders. I raised my CGPA from a 2.9-ish to a 3.4 since then.

I didn't even realize it was possible to be too research focused for clinical psych (except for PsyDs of course). I thought a masters may be better than just RA experience due to my GPA.
Click to expand...

I don't think it would be an issue for a vast majority of applicants--my friend was just very, very research focused (i.e., 7 publications), and again, that's just speculation--could have very well been some other factor(s). i agree that getting a good grad GPA could help your case. It might be the best option for you on that basis. 👍

Sorry to hear about your health problems. 🙁 Both the upward trend and the fact that you have *very* valid context for your GPA drop should hopefully grant you some understanding in the GPA department.

I definitely agree that raising the GRE is a must. Even an 1100 may get you looked over at a lot of places. Have you considered the University of North Dakota, by any chance? They have a faculty member doing ED research, and AFAIK they tend to be more lenient on the GRE than some other funded PhD programs. Balanced program from what I know, but I think their ED research is pretty active.

Good luck! :luck:
 
Last edited:
futureapppsy2 said:
I don't think it would be an issue for a vast majority of applicants--my friend was just very, very research focused (i.e., 7 publications), and again, that's just speculation--could have very well been some other factor(s). i agree that getting a good grad GPA could help your case. It might be the best option for you on that basis. 👍

Sorry to hear about your health problems. 🙁 Both the upward trend and the fact that you have *very* valid context for your GPA drop should hopefully grant you some understanding in the GPA department.

I definitely agree that raising the GPA is a must. Even an 1100 may get you looked over at a lot of places. Have you considered the University of North Dakota, by any chance/ They have a faculty member doing ED research, and AFAIK they tend to be more lenient on the GRE than some other funded PhD programs. Balanced program from what I know, but I think their ED research is pretty active.

Good luck! :luck:
Click to expand...

Thanks. 😳

Their website looks familiar... Looking at the POI I think you are talking about I don't know why I didn't do a program worksheet (I've been doing the ones like suggested by the APA "getting into grad school" book) for them... Thanks for the tip about the GRE with them. I think I'll add them to my list, so definitely thanks for the suggestion! 🙂 Just when I thought I was finally done looking at schools a whole new list pops up, haha.

Edit: Boo, they want the psych GRE. 🙁
 
Last edited:
BoxingGuy said:
Worked for 4 years at a Counseling firm and in a supervisor position.
Click to expand...

I don't know a whole lot about the two programs you've mentioned specifically in terms of their typical incoming student, but without substantive research experience, getting into a doctoral program can be very difficult. Did you complete an experimental thesis or conduct any research for your masters? If nothing else, that could certainly be listed.

Your other stats are solid, but with PhD programs, the research "fit" is a huge part of determining your chances at a site. Having worked in the field also generally helps, but in general, research trumps all.
 
Getting ready to apply to (hopefully) begin a PhD program in Fall 2013. Here is what I have (be prepared, it's a bit long):

PhD career goal and focus-I am interested in translational research in anxiety within the adolescent population with a focus on prevention and intervention programs.

GRE scores-Taking it in a few weeks, practice scores are currently at 157-quant and 163 verbal (1350 on old scale)

These are some of the schools I am looking to apply to (each are based of faculty research interests coinciding with my own):
Penn State
Arizona State University
U of Washington
U of Denver-
Temple University
Boston University
Rutgers
U of Central Florida
VA Tech
CASE Western
Texas A&M
UCLA
SDSU

All of my credentials-

Academics-
Double major
BS Psychology
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 3.5

BS Family and Human Development
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 4.0

Awards and honors-
Summa cum laude
Deans list every semester
Recipient of Psychology Undergraduate Scholar award (research based scholarship)

Research Experience-
-1.5 years as undergraduate research assistant in youth-based anxiety intervention research lab
Duties: Normal UGRA duties, data entry, basic data analysis, assisting grad students with intervention clients

-1 year as paid Lab Tech IV and Senior RA in same research lab (currently still doing this)
Duties:
Program materials design/development for school-based anxiety prevention program
Program co-trainer at school district level
Lead co-implementer of prevention program in 2 different schools (worked directly with school interventionists and students in program)
Social network data collection and analysis for use in prevention program
Approved supervised clinical hours for working with clients

Publications-
1 poster as 5th-author at Society for Behavioral Medicine (SBM)
1 symposia as 4th-author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
1 poster as 2nd author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
2 posters as first author at Western Psychological Association and Society for Research in Child Development (WPA and SRCD)

Other experience-
President for 2 years of my university chapter of a national non-profit dedicated to presenting hope and help for people struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and self-injury

I'm feeling pretty good about it but wanted some feedback from others about my potential schools list and my chances.

Thanks!
 
Last edited:
thelifeandtimes said:
Getting ready to apply to (hopefully) begin a PhD program in Fall 2013. Here is what I have (be prepared, it's a bit long):

PhD career goal and focus-I am interested in translational research in anxiety within the adolescent population with a focus on prevention and intervention programs.

GRE scores-Taking it in a few weeks, practice scores are currently at 157-quant and 163 verbal (1350 on old scale)

These are some of the schools I am looking to apply to (each are based of faculty research interests coinciding with my own):
Penn State
Arizona State University
U of Washington
U of Denver-
Temple University
Boston University
Rutgers
U of Central Florida
VA Tech
CASE Western
Texas A&M
UCLA
SDSU

All of my credentials-

Academics-
Double major
BS Psychology
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 3.5

BS Family and Human Development
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 4.0

Awards and honors-
Summa cum laude
Deans list every semester
Recipient of Psychology Undergraduate Scholar award (research based scholarship)

Research Experience-
-1.5 years as undergraduate research assistant in youth-based anxiety intervention research lab
Duties: Normal UGRA duties, data entry, basic data analysis, assisting grad students with intervention clients

-1 year as paid Lab Tech IV and Senior RA in same research lab (currently still doing this)
Duties:
Program materials design/development for school-based anxiety prevention program
Program co-trainer at school district level
Lead co-implementer of prevention program in 2 different schools (worked directly with school interventionists and students in program)
Social network data collection and analysis for use in prevention program
Approved supervised clinical hours for working with clients

Publications-
1 poster as 5th-author at Society for Behavioral Medicine (SBM)
1 symposia as 4th-author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
1 poster as 2nd author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
2 posters as first author at Western Psychological Association and Society for Research in Child Development (WPA and SRCD)

Other experience-
President for 2 years of my university chapter of a national non-profit dedicated to presenting hope and help for people struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and self-injury

I'm feeling pretty good about it but wanted some feedback from others about my potential schools list and my chances.

Thanks!
Click to expand...

Your stats (GPA/practice GRE) look good. While you have solid research experience, I'd definitely advise adding some lower tier schools to your list as it's made up primarily of extremely competitive schools. The posters help, but in my experience aren't given nearly as much weight as journal publications or even 1st authored symposia at national/international conferences. If you can work to get a peer-reviewed publication (or even something in submission), it would strengthen your application.
 
beaconshome said:
Hi everyone! I'm new to this forum and would like some feedback or guidance on clinical or counseling psych programs. I'm currently in my 4th/5th year of undergrad and have had many troubles along my journey. I began as a chemistry major up until the beginning of this past fall semester (2009). I decided to make the switch to psychology, because my upper level chemistry classes weren't working out too well for me. Unfortunately, I failed 3 chemistry classes and thought I was destined for failure. In addition, I had to take a medical withdrawl for a whole semester because of a brain tumor.
However, I have now completed 4 classes in psychology (general, statistics, research methods, and theories of personality) and absolutely love it! I have a vast improvement in my grades averaging a 3.25 for psychology classes, but my overall GPA is at a 2.73 from my previous shortcomings.
The questions I have are what is the likelihood of a clinical or counseling psych program of even looking at my application? Should I consider applying to M.A. programs and prove my capabilities and then apply to PhD. or PsyD. programs?
Thank you in advance for your time, consideration, and comments.
Click to expand...
I was in a similar boat. Get close with your psychology professors. Sometimes a few great letters can help you overcome a few shortcomings. Going for your MA/MS is always an option. Just make sure some or most of the credits will transfer over to the doctorate program you have your eye on. This way you can enter as an Advanced Standing student, saving yourself some time.
 
I think you look fairly competitive. Adolescent/child anxiety is a super competitive field; I suggest you expand your list. Also, depending on the pool of applicants, having a publication or a couple more first-author posters might help. I think it's worth a shot, especially if you can add a few more less competitive programs to the mix.

Good luck! :luck:


thelifeandtimes said:
Getting ready to apply to (hopefully) begin a PhD program in Fall 2013. Here is what I have (be prepared, it’s a bit long):

PhD career goal and focus-I am interested in translational research in anxiety within the adolescent population with a focus on prevention and intervention programs.

GRE scores-Taking it in a few weeks, practice scores are currently at 157-quant and 163 verbal (1350 on old scale)

These are some of the schools I am looking to apply to (each are based of faculty research interests coinciding with my own):
Penn State
Arizona State University
U of Washington
U of Denver-
Temple University
Boston University
Rutgers
U of Central Florida
VA Tech
CASE Western
Texas A&M
UCLA
SDSU

All of my credentials-

Academics-
Double major
BS Psychology
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 3.5

BS Family and Human Development
GPA-3.71/Major GPA 4.0

Awards and honors-
Summa cum laude
Deans list every semester
Recipient of Psychology Undergraduate Scholar award (research based scholarship)

Research Experience-
-1.5 years as undergraduate research assistant in youth-based anxiety intervention research lab
Duties: Normal UGRA duties, data entry, basic data analysis, assisting grad students with intervention clients

-1 year as paid Lab Tech IV and Senior RA in same research lab (currently still doing this)
Duties:
Program materials design/development for school-based anxiety prevention program
Program co-trainer at school district level
Lead co-implementer of prevention program in 2 different schools (worked directly with school interventionists and students in program)
Social network data collection and analysis for use in prevention program
Approved supervised clinical hours for working with clients

Publications-
1 poster as 5th-author at Society for Behavioral Medicine (SBM)
1 symposia as 4th-author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
1 poster as 2nd author at Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
2 posters as first author at Western Psychological Association and Society for Research in Child Development (WPA and SRCD)

Other experience-
President for 2 years of my university chapter of a national non-profit dedicated to presenting hope and help for people struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and self-injury

I’m feeling pretty good about it but wanted some feedback from others about my potential schools list and my chances.

Thanks!
Click to expand...
 
I'm starting to look into psyd programs for Fall 2013. And while I know I will need to find some middle-of-the-road schools, and many of them, I was wondering if you could give your opinion on my chances of getting into top psyd programs like Baylor or Rutgers.

My info:

B.A. Psychology at a top college
GPA: 3.4 Psych GPA: 3.48
GREs: 1400

LORs: All three should be excellent.

Spent a summer working in a social psychology lab at an ivy league university.
Spent about a year interning at a mental health clinic working with patients in group therapy
By the time I apply, I will have worked about a year and a half as a health education counselor at a local college.

1 poster as third author

It's not much, but do I have any chance at all?
 
Apologize for the long message in advance- I am applying for the Fall of 2013 to PhD Clinical programs and counselling programs. Applying to at least 15 schools in both Canada and the USA (mostly fully funded in the USA). I have no idea where I stand or if I should wait another year to apply and raise GRE marks/get more clinical experience.

GREs- Taking them in 10 days. My scores on practice tests are low..156 Q and 157 V...- hoping to raise them to 160 by test day and score at least a 5.0 on the writing.

Credentials:

BA Psychology
GPA- 3.7 Psychology overall, 3.5 overall
Deans list

Research experience:
-The past 1.5 years and currently: paid research assistant in a major hospital. Duties: leading a research study on health related outcomes among homeless people.
-2 years undergrad in a lab on personality research- did my thesis there
-1 year UG experience in a health psychology lab
-1 year UG social psychology research lab
-semester in cross-cultural psychology lab
-a semester in a child development lab as a research intern
-1 year as project coordinator on a study to evaluate guidelines for physicians

Publications:
-1 literature review (first author) published
-another literature review I am second author has just been submitted for publication
-four manuscripts from the study I am working on will be submitted my name should be on each
-three published abstracts (Second author on all three)

Presentations
-2 professional conference presentations
-2 poster presentations (UG research competitions)
-My name was on 3 presentations..not sure how to indicate this on my cv but it was presentation on research I am conducting just was not physically presenting...

Volunteer
-two mental health hospitals assisting in programming (e.g. patients library, art program)
-camp counsellor for immigrant children from low income neighborhood
-Child and Family services volunteer tutor to children who needed extra help with reading
- Monthly volunteer at a group for children with FAS, helping with the group and programming activities


I apologize for the long message...I just want to know what type of schools/programs I have a shot at and what else I could do to improve. Will my research experience make up for the poor GRE scores I will probably get? Does it matter if I was not a full time student in undergrad? This site has been so helpful through the process so far. Thanks in advance!
 
Member123412423 said:
I'm starting to look into psyd programs for Fall 2013. And while I know I will need to find some middle-of-the-road schools, and many of them, I was wondering if you could give your opinion on my chances of getting into top psyd programs like Baylor or Rutgers.

My info:

B.A. Psychology at a top college
GPA: 3.4 Psych GPA: 3.48
GREs: 1400

LORs: All three should be excellent.

Spent a summer working in a social psychology lab at an ivy league university.
Spent about a year interning at a mental health clinic working with patients in group therapy
By the time I apply, I will have worked about a year and a half as a health education counselor at a local college.

1 poster as third author

It's not much, but do I have any chance at all?
Click to expand...

I didn't apply to any PsyD programs myself, so my knowledge of the typically-admitted applicant is quite skimpy; however, for top programs such as Baylor and Rutgers, I'd imagine that the biggest sticking point would be your limited research experience. It of course doesn't hurt to apply, but if things don't go as hoped this application cycle, that'd definitely be the area I'd work on shoring up a bit before anything else. Your UGPA, while on the lower end of the admitted applicants spectrum, likely isn't something that'll automatically kick you out of contention at most mid-tier programs. Your GRE score is strong, as is your clinical experience (although the importance of this really does pale in comparison to research experience).
 
Hi, I am a 2009 graduate from a top 25 university with a 3.5 and major in Psychology and Spanish (3.7 GPA Psychology). I got a 167 Verbal, 159 Quant (Equivalent of 710 Verbal, 750 Quant), a 5 for writing and a 740 on the Psychology GRE.

That is all good and great, but I have only worked at a lab during college for credit for one year, and took an active, but I'm worried unmemorable part in the experiments. The grad student I worked for has agreed to do my recommendation. I didn't do a distinguished major, and have never done any independent research study. I might suggest that I "burned out" a bit my last year of college, and my GPA went down. I also don't have any work experience in counseling or psych- I have been an English teacher in a foreign country for the past 4 years since graduation, and I have had a lot of intercultural experience, and I am now 100% fluent in Spanish. I'm hoping to get another rec from a former supervisor of mine at a Spanish school and from a former boss of mine at a completely unrelated (business) internship. Do you think the lack of relevant experience will keep me completely out of consideration of PhD programs in Counseling or Clinical psych, or that perhaps my scores combined with a unique experience might get me some consideration?
 
guirizana said:
Hi, I am a 2009 graduate from a top 25 university with a 3.5 and major in Psychology and Spanish (3.7 GPA Psychology). I got a 167 Verbal, 159 Quant (Equivalent of 710 Verbal, 750 Quant), a 5 for writing and a 740 on the Psychology GRE.

That is all good and great, but I have only worked at a lab during college for credit for one year, and took an active, but I'm worried unmemorable part in the experiments. The grad student I worked for has agreed to do my recommendation. I didn't do a distinguished major, and have never done any independent research study. I might suggest that I "burned out" a bit my last year of college, and my GPA went down. I also don't have any work experience in counseling or psych- I have been an English teacher in a foreign country for the past 4 years since graduation, and I have had a lot of intercultural experience, and I am now 100% fluent in Spanish. I'm hoping to get another rec from a former supervisor of mine at a Spanish school and from a former boss of mine at a completely unrelated (business) internship. Do you think the lack of relevant experience will keep me completely out of consideration of PhD programs in Counseling or Clinical psych, or that perhaps my scores combined with a unique experience might get me some consideration?
Click to expand...

sorry, you are going to need more research experience. Your teaching experience may be a good bonus, but will not replace it. Also, a recommendation from a grad student will not carry much weight (can their PI co-sign?) and the other two letters even more so. But, if you can get some (1-2 years) experience either working as an RA or in a research-heavy master's, you should be well placed for grad school.
 
I am debating whether or not to retake the GREs before applying to schools this year. What do you guys think? I got 162 V (89th) and 157 Q (71th) and 4.0 W (49th). That's a 1370 converted score, which is better than I expected, but for some strange reason I got a really low writing score. I'm not a bad writer at all, and I know I'll do better the second time around. It's just the idea of taking the whole damn test over again, ugh. It was quite stressful. Do you guys recommend a retake?

I'm not applying to any ivy league programs, but for example: Kentucky, American, Boulder, Utah, Southern Mississippi, Wyoming, Albany, UMass Boston,
 
I'm in the same boat as you are. I am planning on retaking it because of the new select score system. You can now chose what scores to send to schools so I feel like the stress involved in taking it has really really decreased. The only drawback now is the money 🙁
 
Getting very paranoid about my chances of being admitted to a PhD program for Fall 2013, so..

Academics:
- Will be getting a B.S. in psychology, graduating from my college's honors program which offered specialized seminars in positive psychology and psychodynamic theory.
- 3.73 cumulative GPA, 3.86 psyc GPA
- In a specialized clinical program that consists of masters-level work, such as a practicum in which we extensively read the DSM and were evaluated on our interviewing skills with a mock patient. Received a 98% on my eval by the program's director, so will be requesting a LOR from her in support of my clinical competence.

GRE:
- Last August: Q: 155, V: 152 W: 5.5. Did not prep much, but did extensive prep this summer and will be retaking it next month.

Clinical Experience:
- Summer of interning at a mental health unit. Daily interaction with patients, observations of emergency room, psychosocial, and psychiatric evaluations. Participated in weekly group therapy sessions.
- Interned at an elementary school and co-led weekly group talk sessions. This was a supervised internship focused in analyzing group dynamics.
- Currently interning at a crisis response system for my county, which has a population of 800,000+

Research Experience:
- Currently in my 2nd semester of being a RA for a lab that focuses on OCD symptomology. Data entry, data collection.
- In my first full semester of assisting in a developmental lab, but I was accepted into and acclimated to the lab before last semester ended.
- Currently working on an independent project that is going very well; will be submitting this to SRCD this month.

Career goal - Examining developmental influences contributing to substance abuse and possible interventions.

I am a strong writer and am confident in my personal statement.

I have not yet formulated a list of schools to apply to because I have no idea what caliber of schools I would have a chance at. The list I have now would be useless to post.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top