OFFICIAL 2009 Interview Invite Thread

[psychanxiety]

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when were the deadlines for the schools that have extended interviews??

Anywhere from Dec. 1 - Jan. 1 (I know MU Ohio and Kentucky had late deadlines) Doesn't seem to make any difference whatsoever!

 

[saribou13]

Anywhere from Dec. 1 - Jan. 1 (I know MU Ohio and Kentucky had late deadlines) Doesn't seem to make any difference whatsoever!

All of my schools' deadlines were 12/1, 12/12, and 12/15, yet they've barely extended anything yet. Most of them haven't even started!

 

[FreshAirTO]

Hey! Has anyone heard from the University of Florida (Gainsville) or the University of Texas (Austin)?

 

[GherkyLyn]

Yes, Chapel Hill. I don't SEE that on their site, but let me know if yo find that. All I see is that their interview date is Feb. 20th.

Here is the link to the page http://www.unc.edu/depts/clinpsy/program/applying.html

It says it on the top in red. So no worries yet. 🙂

 

[psychick]

Hey! Has anyone heard from the University of Florida (Gainsville) or the University of Texas (Austin)?

I'm waiting for UF, too. I didn't get the Clinical and Health Psych Dept mass email that someone mentioned awhile back about the school sending invites starting from Jan 28 to Feb 2 🙁

 

[cara susanna]

It makes me want to curl up into a ball and cry, personally.

Though I think some of my schools are sending out invites even later than that.

 

[bbonniee]

Even though most of my schools haven’t even extended invites yet I feel super negative.. SO many people have heard!

When do I start panicking?

 

[edpsych]

I agree! I'm sooo negative. How common is it for people to apply two years in a row?

 

[mplsgirl]

Even though most of my schools haven’t even extended invites yet I feel super negative.. SO many people have heard!

When do I start panicking?

I've taken to a new attitude in regards to all of this....

I haven't heard from any schools either, only applied to 5, and figure: well, if not this year, I'll just have to work harder, do better on my GRE's (by far the weak link to my application), and try again next year.

I will start panicking when I am 80, at the bar, and still haven't gained admission to a Clinical Psych program. Until then, I have time 😀

 

[bbonniee]

I've taken to a new attitude in regards to all of this....

I haven't heard from any schools either, only applied to 5, and figure: well, if not this year, I'll just have to work harder, do better on my GRE's (by far the weak link to my application), and try again next year.

I will start panicking when I am 80, at the bar, and still haven't gained admission to a Clinical Psych program. Until then, I have time 😀

hehe well said!

 

[cara susanna]

I wouldn't apply two years in a row unless you are positive that you have enough research experience etc. Otherwise, take a year off and improve your app.

I've already started thinking about my backup plan, but was yelled at because apparently it's still far too early to accept defeat. 😉

 

[anxiousleigh]

I agree! I'm sooo negative. How common is it for people to apply two years in a row?

Do not get discouraged! It is VERY VERY common to apply twice. It does not say anything about your merit or determination.

 

[mplsgirl]

I wouldn't apply two years in a row unless you are positive that you have enough research experience etc. Otherwise, take a year off and improve your app.

I've already started thinking about my backup plan, but was yelled at because apparently it's still far too early to accept defeat. 😉

FOR sure, I definitely agree.

I have 2 years of solid RA experience at a well-respected university, doing research in a Psychiatry lab, similar to my interests. I only applied to programs where I had a great research match with a prof that assured me they were taking a student.....I have a solid undergrad GPA, but my test scores....argh. Not the best...1190 combined. So, if I don't get in this year, I will retake that stupid GRE and shoot for a 1300+, and then see where I am!

 

[jennigold]

I wouldn't apply two years in a row unless you are positive that you have enough research experience etc. Otherwise, take a year off and improve your app.

I've already started thinking about my backup plan, but was yelled at because apparently it's still far too early to accept defeat. 😉

I ABSOLUTELY disagree! It is EXTREMELY common to apply two years in a row. The most common mistake is not applying to programs that fit your research background/interests well enough. Last year I applied to 7 schools and only got one interview although it was my first choice school (probably because it was the only school that exactly matched my research background). This year I applied to 9 schools- I didn't retake the GREs or change my app dramatically- but I did find schools that matched my background MUCH better and so far have 3 interviews.

If you don't get in this year - even though I wouldn't worry yet, it is still relatively early - I would just seriously reconsider if your background and interests matched the professors and schools to which you applied.
Good luck - Don't lose hope yet!

 

[Tania]

Not sure if anybody else responded about Yale... They only have phone interviews, no on-site interviews (I already had mine with my prof. of interest) which should have happened by the end of this week. They told me they would decide by the end of the week whom to extend acceptance offers to, this list then goes to graduate school for approval and the candidates should learn their decisions within two weeks.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!

 

[WantCalm]

I have/did all those same things except I have a 1380 on the GRE (780 math) and I haven't gotten a single interview as of now this year. I think it's dumb freaking luck. Also, I have been told my GRE score is not good enough.

FOR sure, I definitely agree.

I have 2 years of solid RA experience at a well-respected university, doing research in a Psychiatry lab, similar to my interests. I only applied to programs where I had a great research match with a prof that assured me they were taking a student.....I have a solid undergrad GPA, but my test scores....argh. Not the best...1190 combined. So, if I don't get in this year, I will retake that stupid GRE and shoot for a 1300+, and then see where I am!

 

[anxiousleigh]

I ABSOLUTELY disagree! It is EXTREMELY common to apply two years in a row. The most common mistake is not applying to programs that fit your research background/interests well enough. Last year I applied to 7 schools and only got one interview although it was my first choice school (probably because it was the only school that exactly matched my research background). This year I applied to 9 schools- I didn't retake the GREs or change my app dramatically- but I did find schools that matched my background MUCH better and so far have 3 interviews.

If you don't get in this year - even though I wouldn't worry yet, it is still relatively early - I would just seriously reconsider if your background and interests matched the professors and schools to which you applied.
Good luck - Don't lose hope yet!

You read my mind exactly. It is much more about finding a better match for whatever experience you have. Could not have said it better.

 

[FreshAirTO]

Hey. Just talked with someone at UFL. She said that you should be receiving an e-mail today indicating either that a.) your application is complete and it will be reviewed by someone early next week, or b.) you have something missing that they need big time. GACK!! Crossing my fingers that everything was received as it was supposed to!

 

[kapinkkidowski]

congratulations! is this the clinical program? 🙂

Yes.

 

[psychick]

Hey. Just talked with someone at UFL. She said that you should be receiving an e-mail today indicating either that a.) your application is complete and it will be reviewed by someone early next week, or b.) you have something missing that they need big time. GACK!! Crossing my fingers that everything was received as it was supposed to!

thanks for the update! 🙂 I'm actually looking forward to getting that email... any email from any school would be really grand at this point (how pathetic is that??)

 

[clinpsychgrl]

Hey. Just talked with someone at UFL. She said that you should be receiving an e-mail today indicating either that a.) your application is complete and it will be reviewed by someone early next week, or b.) you have something missing that they need big time. GACK!! Crossing my fingers that everything was received as it was supposed to!

You talked to the program Assistant at the University of Florida? I have been trying to get ahold of her regularly since Dec. 1st. Did she say anything about whether interview invites have been extended?

Has anyone heard from Duke yet?

 

[saribou13]

it's nice to know that everyone else is totally freaking out too. i'm wondering if this board is helping or INCREASING my anxiety though? i check it like every frickin second of the day!!

 

[quentin4]

Hey, is there anyone out there who hasn't contacted the Duke coordinator recently? I got an email from her last night saying that they were trying to finalize the list yesterday (Thursday) and that invites would hopefully be sent today. I don't want to email her again to see if they're actually being sent today, but I'm pretty curious (not to mention staring at my cell phone and willing it to ring). Basically, is anyone out there willing to contact her to get an update? Come on, take one for the team... 🙂

 

[Cigolon]

it's nice to know that everyone else is totally freaking out too. i'm wondering if this board is helping or INCREASING my anxiety though? i check it like every frickin second of the day!!

I'm sure it is. Every time one of my schools gets posted as having extended an invite, BAM- that much more anxiety.

 

[Tania]

Just got an e-mail from Duke. The on-site interview seems set for either 2/6 or 2/9. It is not clear from the e-mail if additional interview invites will be extended.

 

[edpsych]

I ABSOLUTELY disagree! It is EXTREMELY common to apply two years in a row. The most common mistake is not applying to programs that fit your research background/interests well enough. Last year I applied to 7 schools and only got one interview although it was my first choice school (probably because it was the only school that exactly matched my research background). This year I applied to 9 schools- I didn't retake the GREs or change my app dramatically- but I did find schools that matched my background MUCH better and so far have 3 interviews.

If you don't get in this year - even though I wouldn't worry yet, it is still relatively early - I would just seriously reconsider if your background and interests matched the professors and schools to which you applied.
Good luck - Don't lose hope yet!

Thanks for posting this reply! I feel that I did apply to programs that matched my interests, but perhaps I should've spent more time discussing what my interests are in my PS.

In terms of my qualifications, I feel that I'm an applicant that falls in the middle tier. My GRE scores are in the 1300's (I took them twice, and don't think taking them again would be wise), my GPA is 3.5, and I have two years of research experience in the psych department of reputable hospital. I don't know what else I can do to beef up my application.

Sorry for all my whining. Thank goodness for this website! I think my friends are sick of hearing me complain about the application process.

 

[rmenoch]

Yuck! One of my programs just called to say they didn't have my GRE scores...even though they confirmed my file was complete when I called a month ago. Sometimes this process is like going to the DMV.

 

[nycpsychloy]

Does anyone know if schools send out more then one batch of interview invites? I just feel like its so early for all the listed schools to have finished selecting people for interviews!


P.S. - Loyola College in Maryland is a PsyD program, its on the list as a Clinical PhD program

 

[bbonniee]

Yuck! One of my programs just called to say they didn't have my GRE scores...even though they confirmed my file was complete when I called a month ago. Sometimes this process is like going to the DMV.

What are you supposed to do about that? Call again?

"Hi, yeah, I know you SAID my file was complete... but can you check again... thanks."

 

[hermionephd]

I wouldn't apply two years in a row unless you are positive that you have enough research experience etc. Otherwise, take a year off and improve your app.

I've already started thinking about my backup plan, but was yelled at because apparently it's still far too early to accept defeat. 😉

I also disagree with this. Often people aren't getting invitations or acceptances because they're not a great match, NOT because they don't have research experience or because their GREs are "only" 1200ish. The first time I applied I got no interviews. The ONLY real difference on my application this time around is that I am a GREAT match with all of my schools. In fact, lots of places do not want master's level students, so you could even say that I have a relative handicap at 60% of the schools I applied to.

Anyways, if you apply the next year, you've still got months and months to improve your application. You also have months and months to do your research and find a better match.

Finally, I would suggest to you that even though it's early (and it is!) - you should still be thinking VERY seriously about a backup plan. I have interviews and I'm still taking the backup plan seriously. In fact, it's a great way to get your mind off of the "what if I don't get in?!" mindset. It really helped me the first time around in terms of realizing that I'm NOT just looking for a degree, I'm looking for a long term career that involves a whole bunch of great experiences. If you're planning on applying to research jobs - many of them are already posted. If you're planning on attending a master's program - many of the applications are due in March.

Don't give up! If I don't get in this time I'm applying again next year! 😀

 

[DannySplat]

Hi. Could the person who heard from U Hartford PM me please? I was trying to find out how they contacted you but I cannot find the original message.

Thanks!

Peace.😎

 

[thirdeye99]

Duke University Clinical PhD Program
Email from dept. secretary on 1/23/09
Interview on wedneday 2/4/09


nothing like a week and a half's notice!

 

[kate09]

I emailed the department about if invites have been sent out, etc. and this is what I got back:
"A first round of invitations for interviews have gone out. I do not
know whether they will be inviting anyone else."

Grr...

 

[DannySplat]

Duke University Clinical PhD Program
Email from dept. secretary on 1/23/09
Interview on wedneday 2/4/09


nothing like a week and a half's notice!

I didn't apply there but that is AWFUL that they gave you a week and a half.....

 

[Jon4PsyD]

I just received an interview invitation from the dept. at Our Lady of the Lake University of their Counseling Psychology Psy.D. program! Interview is on 2/13.

I'm beyond excited as last time aorund I did not even receive any interviews!!🙂 Hopefully this isn't the only.

Jon

 

[WantCalm]

Just keep reminding yourself that Columbia is in the middle of nowhere. :-\

I emailed the department about if invites have been sent out, etc. and this is what I got back:
"A first round of invitations for interviews have gone out. I do not
know whether they will be inviting anyone else."

Grr...

 

[jennigold]

Thanks for posting this reply! I feel that I did apply to programs that matched my interests, but perhaps I should've spent more time discussing what my interests are in my PS.

In terms of my qualifications, I feel that I'm an applicant that falls in the middle tier. My GRE scores are in the 1300's (I took them twice, and don't think taking them again would be wise), my GPA is 3.5, and I have two years of research experience in the psych department of reputable hospital. I don't know what else I can do to beef up my application.

Sorry for all my whining. Thank goodness for this website! I think my friends are sick of hearing me complain about the application process.

Thanks...I totally understand where you're coming from. Last year, my first time applying, I really thought I understood what the whole match/fit conversation was about. I had an interest and SOME background in depression and imaging work, and had a big interest in personality research without any background in it, but I thought I could make a story for why I was the right candidate for all my POIs. At the time I remember thinking that I wrote a pretty decent 'story' in my SoP tying my interests, background and POI's interest together but now I realize I was being completely naive and my SoP's were vague, and really that the fit wasn't there especially when you consider that there are 10s of others applying to the same professor that may have done a few years in EXACTLY what the POI studies. I guess, for me, the difference this time around is I tried to find POIs who research matches my background almost exactly or a way I could really contribute to their research with my research background. I feel like I'm rambling, so I hope this made sense!

 

[poang]

Just got an email about an interview at Suffolk University Friday, February 20, 2009 and Saturday, February 21, 2009.

 

[197327]

Email from DCT on 1/23/09 - Interview set for 2/13/09

 

[Olivia101884]

Just got an email about an interview at Suffolk University Friday, February 20, 2009 and Saturday, February 21, 2009.

Got that too! 🙂 Congrats!

 

[SourPatchKid]

same suffolk interview invite. see you all there 🙂

 

[197327]

Thanks...I totally understand where you're coming from. Last year, my first time applying, I really thought I understood what the whole match/fit conversation was about. I had an interest and SOME background in depression and imaging work, and had a big interest in personality research without any background in it, but I thought I could make a story for why I was the right candidate for all my POIs. At the time I remember thinking that I wrote a pretty decent 'story' in my SoP tying my interests, background and POI's interest together but now I realize I was being completely naive and my SoP's were vague, and really that the fit wasn't there especially when you consider that there are 10s of others applying to the same professor that may have done a few years in EXACTLY what the POI studies. I guess, for me, the difference this time around is I tried to find POIs who research matches my background almost exactly or a way I could really contribute to their research with my research background. I feel like I'm rambling, so I hope this made sense!

I did the same thing. I was quite vague in my SOP and now I wish I had been more direct about what I wanted to study. I was so afraid of being too specific but I actually didn't provide very detailed information.

 

[alleycatpsych]

RE the U Mass Boston e-mail:

I still have not received the e-mail, but I e-mailed two people in the department and was told basically the same information. they didn't ask if i had received an e-mail, so I don't really know what to make of the fact that I didn't receive it...

 

[saribou13]

I did the same thing. I was quite vague in my SOP and now I wish I had been more direct about what I wanted to study. I was so afraid of being too specific but I actually didn't provide very detailed information.

can you guys give an example of what you mean by "vague" vs. "specific"?

 

[cara susanna]

email from dct on 1/23/09 - interview set for 2/13/09

Me too!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀 😀 😀

Edit: Oh, yeah, it's cool that people disagree with me. I'm certainly no expert. If you want to apply two years in a row, go for it 😀

 

[Srbpsych]

Whoever got the invite from Stony Brook must have had some kind of in...I just called (again, I hope they don't begin to recognize my voice!) and the grad secretary told me they've just begun to review applications, and each prof. handles their own invites, so they would be the ones to get in touch with re: when interviews are going out.

 

[edpsych]

Whoever got the invite from Stony Brook must have had some kind of in...I just called (again, I hope they don't begin to recognize my voice!) and the grad secretary told me they've just begun to review applications, and each prof. handles their own invites, so they would be the ones to get in touch with re: when interviews are going out.

Oh my gosh I'm so glad you called them. I had already ruled Stony Brook out!

 

[WantCalm]

Just FYI, I interviewed with Stony Brook 2 years ago and I got a phone interview invite January 16th 2007, and the application was due January 15th. I'm guessing that year it was just that my POI was way on top of things. You just never know...

Please note, this did NOT OCCUR THIS YEAR! This was 2 years ago. I did not apply to Stony Brook this time.

Whoever got the invite from Stony Brook must have had some kind of in...I just called (again, I hope they don't begin to recognize my voice!) and the grad secretary told me they've just begun to review applications, and each prof. handles their own invites, so they would be the ones to get in touch with re: when interviews are going out.

 

[Tania]

Boston University - Received a phone call from prof. of interest. Interview dates set for 2/13 or 2/23.

 

[jennigold]

can you guys give an example of what you mean by "vague" vs. "specific"?

I'll try - using my actual statements:

Last year: As a result of my previous work, including studying resilience with Dr. X and CBT with Dr. Y, [NOT VERY SPECIFIC DEPRESSION RESEARCH] I am interested in exploring the factors that may lead to an increased vulnerability for depression, and developing improved methods of prevention for those individuals. I would also like to continue my work in neuropsychological research and assessment. To that end, I would like to focus my graduate education on studying the mood disorders, specifically depression, with Dr. Z, with the intention of pursuing a career in clinical research in an academic setting.

This year: From the last six years of my involvement in research, I have been able to pinpoint my specific interests. My work at Place X, in addition to that of my current position at Place Y, has allowed me to examine my interests in sleep, sleep deprivation, and sleep disorders. After a thorough review of the literature, I have found myself most interested in Dr. Z’s work. Dr. Z and his students’ varied interests in behavioral sleep research, including the effects of sleep on decision making, insomnia, and mindfulness are extremely appealing. I would like to join Dr. Z’s research team to continue his lab’s lines of interest, in addition to pursuing my own research questions. One area of particular interest for me is the role of sleep deprivation on the brain regions that control emotion regulation.


Hope this helps