Hello, I want to start by saying thank you for your brutal honesty in these forums. It is certainly welcome on this post. I am wondering whether it would benefit me to earn a Masters degree in research psychology (or clinical psychology with thesis) in preparation for a doctorate degree in psychology (either Counseling or Clinical). Here are my stats:
GPA: 3.2 (low due to pre-med start and personal trauma during school)
GRE: Have not taken yet...honestly cannot afford adequate prep
Undergraduate Research Fellow, Psychology Research Opportunities fellow. 3 poster presentations on original research idea. Accepted and presented at 3 conferences. Worked in a lab for a year focused on Minority Mental Health (My research focus and focus of research project)
Post grad: Two years as a full time research assistant overseeing the development of psychological assessments- extensive experience in data management and analysis
Certified Crisis Counselor with a national crisis line
Certified Mental Health Advocate with California Black Women's Health Project (Conducted community mental health Events)
I feel that my GPA is simply not a reflection of my academic ability. Without the GRE this year I fear it will disqualify me from doctorate programs if I apply this year. It is for this reason that I am heavily considering a masters program. As a woman of color who has never had a GPA this low in life, I feel the need to prove myself further. (Could be a little imposter syndrome here as well) However, I don't have money or time to waste in pursuit of a degree I might not need. I would love feedback on this, and thank you again! Thanks to this forum I will be avoiding predatory PsyD programs!
GPA: 3.2 (low due to pre-med start and personal trauma during school)
GRE: Have not taken yet...honestly cannot afford adequate prep
Undergraduate Research Fellow, Psychology Research Opportunities fellow. 3 poster presentations on original research idea. Accepted and presented at 3 conferences. Worked in a lab for a year focused on Minority Mental Health (My research focus and focus of research project)
Post grad: Two years as a full time research assistant overseeing the development of psychological assessments- extensive experience in data management and analysis
Certified Crisis Counselor with a national crisis line
Certified Mental Health Advocate with California Black Women's Health Project (Conducted community mental health Events)
I feel that my GPA is simply not a reflection of my academic ability. Without the GRE this year I fear it will disqualify me from doctorate programs if I apply this year. It is for this reason that I am heavily considering a masters program. As a woman of color who has never had a GPA this low in life, I feel the need to prove myself further. (Could be a little imposter syndrome here as well) However, I don't have money or time to waste in pursuit of a degree I might not need. I would love feedback on this, and thank you again! Thanks to this forum I will be avoiding predatory PsyD programs!