GPA's, GRE's, XTRA's, ACCEPTANCES

[heretoenhancelives]

How are you guys dealing with multiple acceptances that aren't your first choice but your first choice hasn't gotten back to you yet? I am still waiting on Arizona but I want to go out of state and got accepted to USciences. Do you guys just accept every slot until you get the results back from your first choice?

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[rcjhgirl]

University: University of Kansas
Major: Applied Behavioral Science
Overall GPA: 3.86
Pre-Req GPA: varies but around 3.9
GRE: verb: 151 qual: 152 writing: 4.0

Extra-Curric: President, treasurer, membership coordinator of various clubs, Alpha Chi Omega, Phi Kappa Phi, Order of Omega, Mortar Board, ABA therapy with children with autism

Volunteer: hospice, ER at a hospital, Best Buddies (organization for special needs adults), 200 hours of observation (2 peds, 1 early intervention, 1 geriatric)

Applied: Midwestern-Glendale, Creighton, Ohio State, University of Toledo, University of Kansas Medical Center

Acceptances: Midwestern U-Glendale, University of Kansas Medical Center, Creighton Campus Pathway, Ohio State

Waitlist: University of Toledo

Interviews: Midwestern U-Glendale (9/28), Creighton campus pathway (11/4), Ohio State (12/10)

Rejections: None

Attending: Creighton University

Update: After hearing back from all the schools I applied to I'm going to Creighton!!!!! Anyone else attending?

 

[nOTeworthy]

University: Sam Houston State U
Majors: Psychology & Criminal Justice
Overall GPA: 3.4-3.5
Pre-Req GPA: 3.4-3.7
GRE: 145Q 152V 5.0W

Extra-Curric: none

Observation Hours: 20 hrs pediatrics/20 hrs geriatrics

Applied: Texas Woman's U & Texas Tech

Interviews: Texas Tech (11/11)

Acceptances: Texas Tech (11/23)

Waitlist:

Rejections:

I was accepted to TWU Houston!

 

[OThopeful97]

Update: After hearing back from all the schools I applied to I'm going to Creighton!!!!! Anyone else attending?

Congrats! If you don't mind me asking, how did you decide on a school? Did it come down to location, cost, ranking, overall program, or something else?

 

[nOTeworthy]

How are you guys dealing with multiple acceptances that aren't your first choice but your first choice hasn't gotten back to you yet? I am still waiting on Arizona but I don't want to go out of state and got accepted to USciences. Do you guys just accept every slot until you get the results back from your first choice?

I accepted them until my first choice came through. You can always contact the other schools and decline your offer after the fact. You have deadlines and can't give up your seat waiting for another school.

 

[so.scarlet]

Just got waitlisted for TWU Houston this afternoon. I am hopeful

 

[heretoenhancelives]

I accepted them until my first choice came through. You can always contact the other schools and decline your offer after the fact. You have deadlines and can't give up your seat waiting for another school.

okay great. thats so expensive but worth it! thank you!

 

[harmcharm]

University: The University of Texas at Austin
Major: Human Development and Family Sciences
Overall GPA: 3.6
Last 60 Hours GPA: 3.9
Pre-req GPA: 3.9
GRE: 157V 154Q 4.0W


Extracurriculars: Undergraduate Research Assistant, School of Human Ecology Ambassador, College Mentor, OT Society Social Chair at UT, Kumon Reading Instructor

OT hours: 80 pediatric, 35 hippotherapy, 20 hand, 15 inpatient rehab

Applied: TWU Houston, UTEP

Acceptances: TWU Houston and UTEP

 

[rcjhgirl]

Congrats! If you don't mind me asking, how did you decide on a school? Did it come down to location, cost, ranking, overall program, or something else?

It was really difficult but I think it was more the overall program. I go to KU so KUmed was always on my radar but their curriculum is so different from other schools I didn't want to be left behind. I also decided I really needed the doctorate over a masters. Creighton has prestigious faculty and a lot of fieldwork time which is good for networking. The cost is really expensive but if it gives me a quality education then I am okay with it. And ohio state was not really on my radar since Ohio is too cold and snowy for me.

 

[othopeful93]

UPDATE:
University: Stony Brook University
Major: Health Science and Sociology
Overall GPA: 3.4 OTCAS
Pre-Req GPA: 3.2-3.7 depending on school
GRE:
158 Verbal
153 Quantitative (previously 148)
5.0 Writing (previously 3.5)

Extra-Curric: Internship early intervention preschool, various positions in a national sorority including Executive board, Out of State student mentor, English Pals, Emerging Leaders, Various academic awards and a Merit scholarship

Volunteer: 20 Hospital NICU/PICU, 90 Early intervention preschool

Applying: Stony Brook, Sacred Heart, NYU, LIU Brooklyn, Touro Bay Shore, Rush

Added: SUNY Downstate (reach), York (safety)

Acceptances:
Rejections: Stony Brook 12/15
Interviews: Stony Brook 11/19

Getting anxious as a second time applicant. This isn't fun. I put in my application for MS.ED at Brooklyn College and will be doing so for Hunter as well.

I don't think I have enough hours and my GPA may not be strong enough. My personal statement is awesome, so that's getting my foot in the door. I just really am unsure about this cycle. I don't want to give up, but I'll have to move on.

 

[heretoenhancelives]

UPDATE:
University: Stony Brook University
Major: Health Science and Sociology
Overall GPA: 3.4 OTCAS
Pre-Req GPA: 3.2-3.7 depending on school
GRE:
158 Verbal
153 Quantitative (previously 148)
5.0 Writing (previously 3.5)

Extra-Curric: Internship early intervention preschool, various positions in a national sorority including Executive board, Out of State student mentor, English Pals, Emerging Leaders, Various academic awards and a Merit scholarship

Volunteer: 20 Hospital NICU/PICU, 90 Early intervention preschool

Applying: Stony Brook, Sacred Heart, NYU, LIU Brooklyn, Touro Bay Shore, Rush

Added: SUNY Downstate (reach), York (safety)

Acceptances:
Rejections: Stony Brook 12/15
Interviews: Stony Brook 11/19

Getting anxious as a second time applicant. This isn't fun. I put in my application for MS.ED at Brooklyn College and will be doing so for Hunter as well.

I don't think I have enough hours and my GPA may not be strong enough. My personal statement is awesome, so that's getting my foot in the door. I just really am unsure about this cycle. I don't want to give up, but I'll have to move on.

Your stats are great! Have a little faith. Its not so much you as it may be the programs you're applying to. You have a much higher GRE and pre req GPA than I do and we have the same overall GPA. AND you have more hours than me and so far I have two acceptances and one waitlist. One thing you have ahead of most applicants is the experience of a first round so I would definitely use that experience and maybe even look into other pathways to OT. There are so many ways to get there and improve your chances! Don't give up!

 

[PNW_OT]

I've been stalking these boards for ever. Finally posting my stats!

University: University of Washington - Seattle
Major: Speech and Hearing Sciences
Overall GPA: 3.55
Pre-Req GPA: 3.9
GRE: 152 V, 144 Q (sigh), 4.0 AW

Volunteer: 2 service trips to rural Philippines, service trip to Mexico with migrant worker families, various tutoring, Adult day health activities assistant, arts and crafts leader for campers with physical disabilities (5 years), hospice patient care volunteer

Observations: 20 pediatrics, 30 hand therapy, 33 outpatient, 40 acute inpatient, 30 geriatrics, 200+ work and industry

Applied: A.T. Still, Midwestern AZ, University of Washington, St. Catherine

Acceptances: A.T. Still (12/14)

Rejections:

Interviews: A.T. Still (12/9), Midwestern AZ (declined)

 

[RastaOT]

Posting my stats for future OT hopefuls since this forum helped me a lot along the way!!!!

University: Texas Woman's University
Major: Health Studies
OTCAS Overall GPA: 3.83
Pre-Req GPA: 3.9
Last 60 GPA: 3.9
GRE: 146V, 146 Q, 2.5 AW ( PRETTTTTTTTY LOW....this worried me the most)
(First time applicant btw)

Volunteer: 360 hr non profit internship, other hours here and there in the community.

Observations: 45hrs outpatient Pediatric , 70hrs inpatient urgent care/hand therapy, 20 hrs OT experience from highschool.

Applied: TWU- Houston , UTMB- Galveston ( I was going to apply to the St. Augustine- Austin campus but tuition there was wayyy too much)

Acceptances: TWU- Houston (perhaps due to my alumni advantage?) (found out around dec 16)

Rejections: UTMB - Galveston (notified the second week of dec, my gre scores were too low) This was also my first choice but hey I am just excited I get to start OT school instead of waiting for another year and going through this process again. Props to second/third time applicants.. the OT field needs all the determined people it can get!

Interviews: None
(TWU does not have an interview, therefore I highly recommend writing a good personal statement / essay)

I have also been reading recent threads where others were denied to TWU but got interviews at UTMB.
Keep your hopes up... I was pretty bummed when UTMB told me I was rejected/no interview).

 

[RastaOT]

I have an overall GPA of 3.6 but a weak GRE score of 286. Do you think this will balance out to get me an interview? Did you have strong GRE scores?

My GRE scores were really low. 146V, 146Q, and 2.5 AW
I got accepted into TWU, so remain hopeful.....GRE scores arent everything!

 

[OT2Be17]

University: Ohio State University
Major: Human Development and Family Sciences
Overall GPA: 3.78
Pre-Req GPA: ~3.9 depending on the school
GRE: Q: 152 V:154

Extra-Curric: Research assistant, TOPs intern (for college individuals w/ intellectual/developmental disabilities), Vice President of Pre-Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Club, Recording Secretary (+ previously new member educator) of sorority, Special Olympics volunteer, Inclusion Specialist at a camp

Applied: Ohio State, Rush, Toledo, Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Acceptances: Ohio State (!!!!)

Rejections: N/A

Interviews: Rush (12/16)

Waitlist: Toledo (was #4 on list)

 

[heretoenhancelives]

I've been stalking these boards for ever. Finally posting my stats!

University: University of Washington - Seattle
Major: Speech and Hearing Sciences
Overall GPA: 3.55
Pre-Req GPA: 3.9
GRE: 152 V, 144 Q (sigh), 4.0 AW

Volunteer: 2 service trips to rural Philippines, service trip to Mexico with migrant worker families, various tutoring, Adult day health activities assistant, arts and crafts leader for campers with physical disabilities (5 years), hospice patient care volunteer

Observations: 20 pediatrics, 30 hand therapy, 33 outpatient, 40 acute inpatient, 30 geriatrics, 200+ work and industry

Applied: A.T. Still, Midwestern AZ, University of Washington, St. Catherine

Acceptances: A.T. Still (12/14)

Rejections:

Interviews: A.T. Still (12/9), Midwestern AZ (declined)

Congrats!! I applied to AT Still as well back in early October. How did you find out you got an interview (call/email)?

 

[PNW_OT]

Congrats!! I applied to AT Still as well back in early October. How did you find out you got an interview (call/email)?

Thanks! They emailed me about a month later and I logged in to my student portal and selected the next available interview date. I was notified by email as well for my acceptance

 

[mdOT17]

I will be interviewing at E&H the same day as you! Have you toured their school yet? I was just trying to get a little incite about their program before going to the interview! Definitely very exciting!!!

That's so exciting! I actually went to visit it in the beginning of October. I am from Virginia and go to school about an hour and a half from there, and also my dad is from the area where the school is located, so I have a little bit of prior knowledge before going to visit. The school is in a very quaint little town in rural southwest Virginia, but the area is really pretty! The building where the school is is awesome! Very state of the art equipment for being a school in a small town, they even had more things than other bigger schools that I have been to have! Their fieldwork coordinator knows her stuff and is always working on getting more placements. All in all, a great school that is just getting started! I really like the school (if I can get over that it is in a very small town ). Let me know if you want to know more info! I am so excited for our interviews!


Sent from my iPad using SDN mobile

 

[90sOT]

University: University of Southern California
Major: Social Sciences and Psychology; Minor: Occupational Science
Overall GPA: 3.3
Pre-Req GPA: 3.0-3.2 (did not do well in Anatomy course but sent supplemental doc to most schools explaining circumstances)
GRE: Q: 155 V:154 AW: 4.5

300+ hours in Pediatric OT observation, 200+ hours in ABA & other health-related volunteer work, completed graduate level research, lectured at OTAC symposium

Applied: Rush, Creighton, USC, UIC, TJU, Utah, Pacific, NYU, Columbia, CSU, Midwestern, Puget Sound

Acceptances:

Rejections: UIC

Interviews: Rush (1/16), Creighton (1/13)

 

[ebjr95]

University: University of Southern California
Major: Social Sciences and Psychology; Minor: Occupational Science
Overall GPA: 3.3
Pre-Req GPA: 3.0-3.2 (did not do well in Anatomy course but sent supplemental doc to most schools explaining circumstances)
GRE: Q: 155 V:154 AW: 4.5

300+ hours in Pediatric OT observation, 200+ hours in ABA & other health-related volunteer work, completed graduate level research, lectured at OTAC symposium

Applied: Rush, Creighton, USC, UIC, TJU, Utah, Pacific, NYU, Columbia, CSU, Midwestern, Puget Sound

Acceptances:

Rejections: UIC

Interviews: Rush (1/16), Creighton (1/13)

You already heard back from UIC??

 

[lao27746]

Cum gpa: 3.6
Prereq: 4.0
GRE: 156 V, 150 Q, 3.5 AW
Hours: 300 across 2 settings

I've taken the GRE three times now, and I can't improve my writing score. The only school I'm applying to is USC. While looking through forums, I only found one person who was accepted to USC with a 3.5 in writing. Everyone else had at least a 4.
Do I have a chance of getting into USC with my writing score?

 

[preOT123]

UPDATE:

University: University of Virginia
Major: Cognitive Science
Overall GPA: 3.53 according to OTCAS (3.3 from 2 years at UVA, transferred from George Mason Univ. with a 3.9, and took a couple courses at community college with a 4.0)
Pre-Req GPA: 3.4-3.7 (depending on school)
GRE: 148 v, 152 Q, 4.0 AW

Applied to: MGH Institute, Sacred Heart University, Springfield College, Thomas Jefferson University, University of New England, Boston University, Tufts University, Columbia University, Worcester State University

Acceptances: University of New England (12/16)

Rejections:

Interviews: University of New England (11/11), MGH Institute (2/3)

Still waiting to hear back from everything else. I hope they take into account the academic rigor of UVA because by my numbers, I feel like I'm an incredibly average applicant :/

 

[nOTeworthy]

UPDATE:

University: University of Virginia
Major: Cognitive Science
Overall GPA: 3.53 according to OTCAS (3.3 from 2 years at UVA, transferred from George Mason Univ. with a 3.9, and took a couple courses at community college with a 4.0)
Pre-Req GPA: 3.4-3.7 (depending on school)
GRE: 148 v, 152 Q, 4.0 AW

Applied to: MGH Institute, Sacred Heart University, Springfield College, Thomas Jefferson University, University of New England, Boston University, Tufts University, Columbia University, Worcester State University

Acceptances: University of New England (12/16)

Rejections:

Interviews: University of New England (11/11)

Still waiting to hear back from everything else. I hope they take into account the academic rigor of UVA because by my numbers, I feel like I'm an incredibly average applicant :/

Our stats are almost identical. My GRE was 145Q 152V 5.0AW. My overall was about a 3.4-3.5, but a 3.3 according to OTCAS because I had a pending course. My pre-req was 3.4-3.7 too. I didn't have any extra-curricular activities, and only had 40 observation hours. I got into the two programs I applied to. So there's hope! I don't think all programs put as much weight on scores as people think. Many judge holistically, so your LORs and Statement have a major impact as well.

 

[OT-2017]

University: University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg
Major: Psychology
Overall GPA: 3.99
Pre-Req GPA: 4.00
GRE: 149 Q, 151 V, 4.5 AW

Extra-Curric: President of Health and Rehabilitation Science Club, VP of Resident Student Council, Presidential Ambassador, Peer Leader, Resident Assistant, Member of 3 honor societies, Research Assistant, 50 hours with the Red Cross, JDRF Walk Volunteer and more

110 hours total, 86 with Outpatient hand therapy, 16 in pediatrics outpatient, 8 in pediatrics inpatient

Applied: Thomas Jefferson, Chatham, University of Pittsburgh

Acceptances: University of Pittsburgh

Wait listed: Chatham

Rejections:

Interviews: Chatham

 

[othopeful93]

Our stats are almost identical. My GRE was 145Q 152V 5.0AW. My overall was about a 3.4-3.5, but a 3.3 according to OTCAS because I had a pending course. My pre-req was 3.4-3.7 too. I didn't have any extra-curricular activities, and only had 40 observation hours. I got into the two programs I applied to. So there's hope! I don't think all programs put as much weight on scores as people think. Many judge holistically, so your LORs and Statement have a major impact as well.

My Stats are very similar to yours, would you mind saying where you got in?

 

[gosot]

*update
University: University of Delaware
Major: Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science
Minor: Psychology & Disability Studies
Overall GPA: 3.026
Last 60 credits GPA 3.2
Pre-Req GPA: 3.1-3.3 depending on the school
GRE: Q:150 V: 152 W: 4.5

*second yr applying

Observation: 10 hours homecare, 15 hours hand therapy, 35 hours subacute, 40 hour school settings, 4 hr hospital
Extracurric: founding sister, sign language club, girl scouts, step up program
Work Experience: ABA Therapist, Subsitite Aid at a Private School for children with developmental delays (implements OT sensory diets), Camp Counselor at Camp Star for the ARC of Union County (camp for children with disabilities), Camp Counselor, Cashier at Stop and Shop Instructor at Mad Science
Certifications: American Red Cross Pediatric CPR and Adult First Aid/CPR, CPI, RBT

Applied: Thomas Jefferson, Chatham, University of Pittsburgh, Temple, MGH, Salus, Uscience

Acceptances: Thomas Jefferson

Wait listed: Chatham, University of Pittsburgh

Rejections: Temple, University of the Sciences

Interviews: Chatham, Thomas Jefferson, MGH

**some hope to the people with lower gpas!!!

 

[epsoftball9]

UPDATE:

University: University of Illinois-Chicago
Major: Kinesiology
Overall GPA: 3.3 OTCAS
Pre-Req GPA: 3.2-3.4 depending on school
GRE:
143 Verbal
143 Quantitative
3.5 Writing

Extra-Curric: Division 1 softball, Greek National Softball Team, Works as a personal trainer specializing in corrective exercises in clients over 60, works as an ABA therapist with children with autism, volunteers weekly at the animal shelter cleaning cages, feeds homeless monthly in Chicago

Volunteer: 100 Outpatient, 20 inpatient, 10 pedatric

Applying: West Coast University, Touro College, Carroll University, Springfield College, University of the Sciences, Midwestern (AZ and IL), Allen College-Unitypoint Health, and Cox College

Acceptances: Allen College !

Rejections: West Coast University, Touro College ):

Interviews: West Coast University, Allen College

Waitlist: Midwestern (AZ), UScience (accepted once I take physics)

 

[RD0601]

UPDATE:

University: University of Virginia
Major: Cognitive Science
Overall GPA: 3.53 according to OTCAS (3.3 from 2 years at UVA, transferred from George Mason Univ. with a 3.9, and took a couple courses at community college with a 4.0)
Pre-Req GPA: 3.4-3.7 (depending on school)
GRE: 148 v, 152 Q, 4.0 AW

Applied to: MGH Institute, Sacred Heart University, Springfield College, Thomas Jefferson University, University of New England, Boston University, Tufts University, Columbia University, Worcester State University

Acceptances: University of New England (12/16)

Rejections:

Interviews: University of New England (11/11), MGH Institute (2/3)

Still waiting to hear back from everything else. I hope they take into account the academic rigor of UVA because by my numbers, I feel like I'm an incredibly average applicant :/

That's so exciting about UNE! They told me first week in January when I interviewed. How were you notified?

 

[OThopeful97]

UPDATE:

University: University of Illinois-Chicago
Major: Kinesiology
Overall GPA: 3.3 OTCAS
Pre-Req GPA: 3.2-3.4 depending on school
GRE:
143 Verbal
143 Quantitative
3.5 Writing

Extra-Curric: Division 1 softball, Greek National Softball Team, Works as a personal trainer specializing in corrective exercises in clients over 60, works as an ABA therapist with children with autism, volunteers weekly at the animal shelter cleaning cages, feeds homeless monthly in Chicago

Volunteer: 100 Outpatient, 20 inpatient, 10 pedatric

Applying: West Coast University, Touro College, Carroll University, Springfield College, University of the Sciences, Midwestern (AZ and IL), Allen College-Unitypoint Health, and Cox College

Acceptances: Allen College !

Rejections: West Coast University, Touro College ):

Interviews: West Coast University, Allen College

Waitlist: Midwestern (AZ), UScience (accepted once I take physics)

Did you ever get to interview at Midwestern AZ?

 

[epsoftball9]

Did you ever get to interview at Midwestern AZ?

No

 

[OThopeful97]

No

Well I decided to decline my interview so hopefully that will open up a spot if you're still interested. It was the most expensive of all my schools so I don't think I would end up there anyways :/

 

[naturalistaOT]

Merry Christmas Eve everyone!

 

[OThopefully2]

University: Pacific Lutheran University
Major: English Literature and Women's and Gender Studies
Overall GPA: 3.8-3.9
Pre-req GPA: 3.55-3.7
GRE: V: 162 Q:146 W: 5.0

Observation: 60+ hours of observation at in and out patient pediatrics, NICU, school setting and at a geriatric rehabilitation clinic

Work experience: Worked for 3.5 years in Foster Care, Low income housing, and working with students with special needs in an elementary school

Xtras: Interned and Volunteered at a domestic violence resource center, Volunteered at a sexual assault resource center, Americorps Summer program working with low income students, 2 years of being an RA in college.

Applied: Boston University, Tufts, Thomas Jefferson, University of Pittsburgh, Rush University, U of Wisconsin- Madison
Accepted: University of Pittsburgh, Rush University
Rejections:
Interviews: Rush 12/16

Hoping to hear from some of my other schools after the holiday break! The waiting is so stressful!

 

[kms433]

University: Rutgers- New Brunswick
Major: Exercise Science Minor: Psychology
Overall GPA:3.0
Pre-Req GPA: not really sure what the number is for this because each school has different pre-reqs. I would say about 3.5 and above. Mostly had A's and B's
OTCAS Overall GPA: 2.9
GRE: 294

Extra-Curric: Was on a dance company all throughout college. Part of university cultural organization(Held executive board position and was coordinator of its dance team)

Volunteer/Internships: volunteered in therapy department and oncology department
internship at a center for independence ( created adaptive zumba and tai chi classes for community members)

Observation hours: disability school, adult outpatient, subacute care, pediatric in/outpatient, hand therapy (400 hours)

Work: after graduating uni, I worked for one year as a therapy aide, respite care provider, and in health info management


This will be a mixture of my first and second round schools
Acceptances: 1st round of apps--- NONE
2nd round of apps--- Uni of St. Augustine (FL), American International College, Gannon University ....... still waiting for more of the second round decisions

Rejections: 1st round of Apps ----Misericordia, University of the Sciences, midwestern, cox, caroll, nova southeastern, AT Still, UND
2nd round ---- none so far lol but that'll probably change

Interviews:West Coast, UND, Uni of St. Augustine

Where I applied 2nd round: Shenandoah, Uni of St. Aug, WCU, AIC, USci, PhilaU, D'Youville, Caroll, MGH, Howard, Trinity DC, Mary Baldwin, MCPHS, Wesley

This is for those who have lower GPAs. I've been a long time lurker on SDN OT forum and this forum has an enormous amount of information that can really help you during the application process. I applied twice. For me the first round I had no idea what I was doing so I used that as preparation for my second round of applications. I know it is hard to cope with the feelings of the waiting game, but do not lose hope. If OT is what you want, keep improving your application and yourself for your future goals! I had a very rough beginning undergraduate career so my transcript is very rocky. I failed calculus my freshman year on purpose, but came out with a B+ the semester after. Got 2 D's in chem 1 and chem 2, but retook both in the summer and got both A's. Also, not proud of this, but got a D in systems physiology, retook and got a C, however, that dropped my GPA a few decimals ( I didn't realize it would do that. so it was a huge stressor for me ). Retook physiology in community college and got an A.
Very rocky, but just giving a story to help people relate to the grad application process. GPA is not everything. Be well rounded and do well in your pre requisites! Learn from my mistakes.

Hope this helps alot of you! my biggest pieces of advice is to get everything in early, give yourself plenty of time to revise revise revise your personal statement, stay ORGANIZED, and really find something to keep your mind off of the waiting game (easier said than done, but you know what I mean )

Message me if you have any questions! I'm happy to help

 

[OT/2016]

University: Rutgers- New Brunswick
Major: Exercise Science Minor: Psychology
Overall GPA:3.0
Pre-Req GPA: not really sure what the number is for this because each school has different pre-reqs. I would say about 3.5 and above. Mostly had A's and B's
OTCAS Overall GPA: 2.9
GRE: 294

Extra-Curric: Was on a dance company all throughout college. Part of university cultural organization(Held executive board position and was coordinator of its dance team)

Volunteer/Internships: volunteered in therapy department and oncology department
internship at a center for independence ( created adaptive zumba and tai chi classes for community members)

Observation hours: disability school, adult outpatient, subacute care, pediatric in/outpatient, hand therapy (400 hours)

Work: after graduating uni, I worked for one year as a therapy aide, respite care provider, and in health info management


This will be a mixture of my first and second round schools
Acceptances: 1st round of apps--- NONE
2nd round of apps--- Uni of St. Augustine (FL), American International College, Gannon University ....... still waiting for more of the second round decisions

Rejections: 1st round of Apps ----Misericordia, University of the Sciences, midwestern, cox, caroll, nova southeastern, AT Still, UND
2nd round ---- none so far lol but that'll probably change

Interviews:West Coast, UND, Uni of St. Augustine

Where I applied 2nd round: Shenandoah, Uni of St. Aug, WCU, AIC, USci, PhilaU, D'Youville, Caroll, MGH, Howard, Trinity DC, Mary Baldwin, MCPHS, Wesley

This is for those who have lower GPAs. I've been a long time lurker on SDN OT forum and this forum has an enormous amount of information that can really help you during the application process. I applied twice. For me the first round I had no idea what I was doing so I used that as preparation for my second round of applications. I know it is hard to cope with the feelings of the waiting game, but do not lose hope. If OT is what you want, keep improving your application and yourself for your future goals! I had a very rough beginning undergraduate career so my transcript is very rocky. I failed calculus my freshman year on purpose, but came out with a B+ the semester after. Got 2 D's in chem 1 and chem 2, but retook both in the summer and got both A's. Also, not proud of this, but got a D in systems physiology, retook and got a C, however, that dropped my GPA a few decimals ( I didn't realize it would do that. so it was a huge stressor for me ). Retook physiology in community college and got an A.
Very rocky, but just giving a story to help people relate to the grad application process. GPA is not everything. Be well rounded and do well in your pre requisites! Learn from my mistakes.

Hope this helps alot of you! my biggest pieces of advice is to get everything in early, give yourself plenty of time to revise revise revise your personal statement, stay ORGANIZED, and really find something to keep your mind off of the waiting game (easier said than done, but you know what I mean )

Message me if you have any questions! I'm happy to help

did you apply to university of north dakota last cycle? I am applying there and have similar stats as you with a 3.1 otcas and 3.4 from my college as overall gpas. I applied to st.augustine but to the austin campus.

 

[OT2Be17]

Hi! Just curious, you said you interviewed with Rush on 12/16 and were accepted - just wondering when they let you know if you don't mind? Thanks!

University: Pacific Lutheran University
Major: English Literature and Women's and Gender Studies
Overall GPA: 3.8-3.9
Pre-req GPA: 3.55-3.7
GRE: V: 162 Q:146 W: 5.0

Observation: 60+ hours of observation at in and out patient pediatrics, NICU, school setting and at a geriatric rehabilitation clinic

Work experience: Worked for 3.5 years in Foster Care, Low income housing, and working with students with special needs in an elementary school

Xtras: Interned and Volunteered at a domestic violence resource center, Volunteered at a sexual assault resource center, Americorps Summer program working with low income students, 2 years of being an RA in college.

Applied: Boston University, Tufts, Thomas Jefferson, University of Pittsburgh, Rush University, U of Wisconsin- Madison
Accepted: University of Pittsburgh, Rush University
Rejections:
Interviews: Rush 12/16

Hoping to hear from some of my other schools after the holiday break! The waiting is so stressful!

 

[occupational therapy]

Hi! Just curious, you said you interviewed with Rush on 12/16 and were accepted - just wondering when they let you know if you don't mind? Thanks!

hey, i know you werent asking me but i also interviewed at rush on 12/16 and i heard back on 12/23. they said that people can find out at any point over the course of these next few months, though

 

[OldHopeful]

What are your stats if you don't mind me asking?

My cum GPA is about 3.12, my pre-req GPA ranges from 3.5-3.9, my GRE scores total to about 303, 4 on writing. I had a really bad start to college but fortunately, I pretty much aced all my pre-req classes so that helps.

 

[Beachbum92]

University: Rutgers- New Brunswick
Major: Exercise Science Minor: Psychology
Overall GPA:3.0
Pre-Req GPA: not really sure what the number is for this because each school has different pre-reqs. I would say about 3.5 and above. Mostly had A's and B's
OTCAS Overall GPA: 2.9
GRE: 294

Extra-Curric: Was on a dance company all throughout college. Part of university cultural organization(Held executive board position and was coordinator of its dance team)

Volunteer/Internships: volunteered in therapy department and oncology department
internship at a center for independence ( created adaptive zumba and tai chi classes for community members)

Observation hours: disability school, adult outpatient, subacute care, pediatric in/outpatient, hand therapy (400 hours)

Work: after graduating uni, I worked for one year as a therapy aide, respite care provider, and in health info management


This will be a mixture of my first and second round schools
Acceptances: 1st round of apps--- NONE
2nd round of apps--- Uni of St. Augustine (FL), American International College, Gannon University ....... still waiting for more of the second round decisions

Rejections: 1st round of Apps ----Misericordia, University of the Sciences, midwestern, cox, caroll, nova southeastern, AT Still, UND
2nd round ---- none so far lol but that'll probably change

Interviews:West Coast, UND, Uni of St. Augustine

Where I applied 2nd round: Shenandoah, Uni of St. Aug, WCU, AIC, USci, PhilaU, D'Youville, Caroll, MGH, Howard, Trinity DC, Mary Baldwin, MCPHS, Wesley

This is for those who have lower GPAs. I've been a long time lurker on SDN OT forum and this forum has an enormous amount of information that can really help you during the application process. I applied twice. For me the first round I had no idea what I was doing so I used that as preparation for my second round of applications. I know it is hard to cope with the feelings of the waiting game, but do not lose hope. If OT is what you want, keep improving your application and yourself for your future goals! I had a very rough beginning undergraduate career so my transcript is very rocky. I failed calculus my freshman year on purpose, but came out with a B+ the semester after. Got 2 D's in chem 1 and chem 2, but retook both in the summer and got both A's. Also, not proud of this, but got a D in systems physiology, retook and got a C, however, that dropped my GPA a few decimals ( I didn't realize it would do that. so it was a huge stressor for me ). Retook physiology in community college and got an A.
Very rocky, but just giving a story to help people relate to the grad application process. GPA is not everything. Be well rounded and do well in your pre requisites! Learn from my mistakes.

Hope this helps alot of you! my biggest pieces of advice is to get everything in early, give yourself plenty of time to revise revise revise your personal statement, stay ORGANIZED, and really find something to keep your mind off of the waiting game (easier said than done, but you know what I mean )

Message me if you have any questions! I'm happy to help

Did you apply to West Coast University for the Fall (2017) or Spring (2017)? And when did you apply/ when is your interview? Thanks!!

 

[kms433]

Did you apply to West Coast University for the Fall (2017) or Spring (2017)? And when did you apply/ when is your interview? Thanks!!

i applied for fall 2017. but i took my application out recently bc I got other acceptances.

 

[yikesjess]

My turn to post! I have been lurking for so long! lol

University: Cal State Long Beach
Major: Human Development
GPA: 3.6
Pre-req: 3.8-4.0
GRE: 149 V/ 144 Q/ 4.5 W
Volunteer: 150 hours in outpatient peds clinic
Work experience related to field: none
LOR: 1 OT, 1 Professor, 1 Professional

Applied: Cal State Dominguez Hills, TWU Houston, D'YouVille (was going to apply to 12 more, but these had early deadlines and got back to people quicker and wanted to see if I'd get in. Didn't want to spend too much money on apps either lol)
Accepted: CSUDH (ATTENDING) , TWU H, waiting on D'Youville

I was extremely hesitant to apply this cycle after comparing my stats to people with higher GRE scores than me, more volunteer hours in a variety of settings, and actual work experience. I was so sure I wouldn't get in, especially to my number one choice school, CSUDH. Nonetheless, I applied and got in!!! I truly believe LOR's and your personal statement are far more important that numeric stats. If you truly want it, others will be able to see it and write you great LOR's, and it'll also show in your PS.
Those with low stats: please don't feel discouraged! Don't give up! You'll get in!!

 

[PNW_OT]

My turn to post! I have been lurking for so long! lol

University: Cal State Long Beach
Major: Human Development
GPA: 3.6
Pre-req: 3.8-4.0
GRE: 149 V/ 144 Q/ 4.5 W
Volunteer: 150 hours in outpatient peds clinic
Work experience related to field: none
LOR: 1 OT, 1 Professor, 1 Professional

Applied: Cal State Dominguez Hills, TWU Houston, D'YouVille (was going to apply to 12 more, but these had early deadlines and got back to people quicker and wanted to see if I'd get in. Didn't want to spend too much money on apps either lol)
Accepted: CSUDH (ATTENDING) , TWU H, waiting on D'Youville

I was extremely hesitant to apply this cycle after comparing my stats to people with higher GRE scores than me, more volunteer hours in a variety of settings, and actual work experience. I was so sure I wouldn't get in, especially to my number one choice school, CSUDH. Nonetheless, I applied and got in!!! I truly believe LOR's and your personal statement are far more important that numeric stats. If you truly want it, others will be able to see it and write you great LOR's, and it'll also show in your PS.
Those with low stats: please don't feel discouraged! Don't give up! You'll get in!!

So glad you didn't need to apply to 12 more schools! Congrats! We have the same quantitative GRE score and I'm nervous about getting into my top choice. I like success stories

 

[futureoccupationaltx]

University: Rutgers- New Brunswick
Major: Exercise Science Minor: Psychology
Overall GPA:3.0
Pre-Req GPA: not really sure what the number is for this because each school has different pre-reqs. I would say about 3.5 and above. Mostly had A's and B's
OTCAS Overall GPA: 2.9
GRE: 294

Extra-Curric: Was on a dance company all throughout college. Part of university cultural organization(Held executive board position and was coordinator of its dance team)

Volunteer/Internships: volunteered in therapy department and oncology department
internship at a center for independence ( created adaptive zumba and tai chi classes for community members)

Observation hours: disability school, adult outpatient, subacute care, pediatric in/outpatient, hand therapy (400 hours)

Work: after graduating uni, I worked for one year as a therapy aide, respite care provider, and in health info management


This will be a mixture of my first and second round schools
Acceptances: 1st round of apps--- NONE
2nd round of apps--- Uni of St. Augustine (FL), American International College, Gannon University ....... still waiting for more of the second round decisions

Rejections: 1st round of Apps ----Misericordia, University of the Sciences, midwestern, cox, caroll, nova southeastern, AT Still, UND
2nd round ---- none so far lol but that'll probably change

Interviews:West Coast, UND, Uni of St. Augustine

Where I applied 2nd round: Shenandoah, Uni of St. Aug, WCU, AIC, USci, PhilaU, D'Youville, Caroll, MGH, Howard, Trinity DC, Mary Baldwin, MCPHS, Wesley

This is for those who have lower GPAs. I've been a long time lurker on SDN OT forum and this forum has an enormous amount of information that can really help you during the application process. I applied twice. For me the first round I had no idea what I was doing so I used that as preparation for my second round of applications. I know it is hard to cope with the feelings of the waiting game, but do not lose hope. If OT is what you want, keep improving your application and yourself for your future goals! I had a very rough beginning undergraduate career so my transcript is very rocky. I failed calculus my freshman year on purpose, but came out with a B+ the semester after. Got 2 D's in chem 1 and chem 2, but retook both in the summer and got both A's. Also, not proud of this, but got a D in systems physiology, retook and got a C, however, that dropped my GPA a few decimals ( I didn't realize it would do that. so it was a huge stressor for me ). Retook physiology in community college and got an A.
Very rocky, but just giving a story to help people relate to the grad application process. GPA is not everything. Be well rounded and do well in your pre requisites! Learn from my mistakes.

Hope this helps alot of you! my biggest pieces of advice is to get everything in early, give yourself plenty of time to revise revise revise your personal statement, stay ORGANIZED, and really find something to keep your mind off of the waiting game (easier said than done, but you know what I mean )

Message me if you have any questions! I'm happy to help

Most schools that go through OTCAS don't really accept GPAs lower than a 3.0 Have you come across any exceptions? Like you, I've retaken multiple classes which are weighing down my OTCAS GPA when in reality my GPA is a 3.4

 

[kms433]

Most schools that go through OTCAS don't really accept GPAs lower than a 3.0 Have you come across any exceptions? Like you, I've retaken multiple classes which are weighing down my OTCAS GPA when in reality my GPA is a 3.4

Ask the schools whether they make decisions based on OTCAS gpa or your Cumulative University GPA. I know for West Coast they notified me after I interviewed with them that I wasn't allowed to apply again; however, I had to really clarify that my cumulative was at their cut off and they were looking at my OTCAS gpa.

Also, ask the schools whether they take the higher grade in the calculations or they calculate all classes+retakes into the final gpa.

 

[OTledo]

Just updating..

University: University of Toledo
Major: B.S. Interdisciplinary Studies - Health Issues/Pre-OT
Overall GPA: 3.92
Pre-Req GPA: 3.89
GRE: 156 V, 154 Q, 4.0 AW
LORs: 1 from neuro OT, 1 from peds OTA, 1 from former work supervisor

Extra-Curriculars and Work Experience:
1-on-1 special education aide at a school for kids with autism - onsite OT, PT, and speech (~800 hours)
Direct care aide for adults with disabilities (~360 hours)
Supervisor/server/bartender in fine dining (+6,000 hours... practically lived there for 3 years)
Clinician at a Perceptual-Motor Development program for kids with special needs (aquatic therapy, fine/gross motor activities)
Team captain of a co-ed volleyball team
Recruitment intern/campus blood drive coordinator for the American Red Cross
Team leader for American Heart Association's Heart Walk/5k
Volunteer for a breast cancer awareness & outreach group


Shadowing/Volunteer Hours:
75 hours outpatient adult neuro rehab
50 hours pediatric mental health (school based)
10 hours pediatric outpatient rehab
4 hours SNF


Certifications/Awards: CPR/First Aid, Med Administration Level 1 from Department of Development Disabilities, Graduated summa cum laude

Applied to: University of Toledo, Ohio State University

Interview: Ohio State

Acceptances: University of Toledo, Ohio State University

 

[otschool]

University: Chapman University
Major: Psychology
Minors: Fine Art, Integrated Educational Studies
GPA: 3.8
Pre-req: depends on school
GRE: 152 V/ 149 Q/ 4.0 W
Volunteer: 104 hours in school shadowing OT's
8 hours in hospital inpatient/outpatient settings
Work experience related to field: non
LOR: 2 OT, 1 Professor

Applied: Boston University, MGH, Tufts, Springfield College, Washington University in st. Louis, Columbia University, NYU and Thomas Jefferson
Accepted: Washington University in st. Louis
Rejected: None so far

So happy I got in somewhere! I was unsure how many schools to apply to because of how competitive it has become.

 

[OThopefully2]

Hi! Just curious, you said you interviewed with Rush on 12/16 and were accepted - just wondering when they let you know if you don't mind? Thanks!

I found out on the 20th!

 

[MOTmking]

I just got asked for an interview at Emory and Henry College! I know it hasn't been talked about too much on this thread. My GPA was on the lower side so hopefully this gives a little hope to some people who applied there!

 

[OT/2016]

I just got asked for an interview at Emory and Henry College! I know it hasn't been talked about too much on this thread. My GPA was on the lower side so hopefully this gives a little hope to some people who applied there!

when did you apply to emory and henry im still waiting to hear back from them?

 

[MOTmking]

when did you apply to emory and henry im still waiting to hear back from them?

Honestly pretty late, like December 15 or sometime around then. But it said they are conducting interviews until March so there's still a lot of time!