WAMC: What Are My Chances

[AcronymAllergy]

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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 took the GRE around the time the writing section first came out, so my take could be very biased, but I honestly don't know if anyone even looked at my writing score. You could certainly target that as an area to address if you have the time, but personally, it'd be near the bottom of my "to do" list if I had other areas/things I wanted to address first. Just be sure that your personal statements are well-written and typo/simple grammatical error-free, and that might end up doing more good than spending the time and money to retake the GRE.

 

[AcronymAllergy]

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.

Your GPA is good, and if you can bring your GREs up to the ~1200-1300 range (old scale, of course), your general "numbers" should be fine. Your coursework and clinical experiences also sound strong, although keep in mind that these are generally weighted less than research. With essentially a year's worth of RA experience, you're going to be on the low end in that area, although you've at least had the opportunity to work in two different labs, and you do seem to have a focused view of what you'd like to do, which definitely helps.

I'd say focus predominantly on mid-tier and below in terms of program competitiveness. One way to find a few "hidden gem"-type programs is to look at programs that are geographically less-desirable. These will often offer solid training, but receive significantly fewer applications than programs located in/near larger cities. Although POI match of course trumps all; if a prof from a high-tier program really likes you and your app, and you pass all minimum barriers to entry set by the school/department, that might be all it takes.

 

[bernie23]

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[ceruleania]

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[snater]

So, what are my chances? I'll likely apply to mostly Canadian schools, unless I can find a professor in the states doing research in the area I'd like to do research in. My interest is in youth sport and mental health, so if anyone knows of any great profs doing research in this area, please let me know.

My stats:

GPA: 3.85 on a 4.0 Scale
GRE Verbal: 163 (650), 91st Percentile
GRE Quant: 159 (750), 77th Percentile
GRE Analytical: 5.0; 92nd Percentile
GRE Psyc: 770; 95th Percentile

Degree: B.A. Honours (first class) in Psyc, graduated in 2009

I did a poster presentation of my honours thesis project at a psyc convention this summer.

For my thesis project, I was trained and administered the SCID.

I've been working in the mental health field for 2 years doing Independent Living Support at a not-for-profit.


Any tips? Is it worth it to re-do my GREs to improve my GRE-Quantitative score?

 

[jmbrown88]

I'm looking to get into get into Bio/Experimental psychology Phd program and am curious if my stats are competitive enough to gain acceptance somewhere.


*My GRE score is 316 (156 quant, 160 verbal, 4.0 writing)

BA psychology (from a small liberal arts school

*GPA=3.48

*last two years GPA=3.61

*3 excellent letters of recommendation

*1 year of experience working as a mental health technician. I work with veterans who've suffered from traumatic brain injuries.

*1 year internship during undergrad working with homeless/displace youth

*I've done undergraduate research on time perception in college students; moreover, I found that anxiety effects the ability to discriminate interval durations between 1 minute and 5 minutes accurately. (I'm currently working on publishing this).

Any constructive criticism or relevant comments are more than welcome.

 

[Student2222]

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,

That is really funny because I just took the GRE and received the exact same scores! My writing mark will for sure be quite low because I got very anxious during the writing section and froze. However, I know that I am a strong writer and have been told that by those writing my letters of recommendation. Are you re-taking the test? Do you think that professors will be wise enough to realize that a test that measures how fast a student can write an essay on a vague topic is not the best measure of that student's writing potential?
I am worried that if I re-take the test my other scores will be lower than they were originally! Are these scores even high enough to be competitive? They should add to be a 1370, I think.

 

[Glees]

That is really funny because I just took the GRE and received the exact same scores! My writing mark will for sure be quite low because I got very anxious during the writing section and froze. However, I know that I am a strong writer and have been told that by those writing my letters of recommendation. Are you re-taking the test? Do you think that professors will be wise enough to realize that a test that measures how fast a student can write an essay on a vague topic is not the best measure of that student's writing potential?
I am worried that if I re-take the test my other scores will be lower than they were originally! Are these scores even high enough to be competitive? They should add to be a 1370, I think.

I received similar scores and I was told by all of my mentors that I did well and not to worry. The writing section does not carry much weight, and I think that once you've gotten into the realm of competitive GRE scores (above 315, or 1300 on the old scale), what really matters is your research experience and fit. Unless of course you beast at the exams and get something like a 1500--in which case, go you!

 

[positive psyc]

Deciding between applying to PsyD programs for next fall or general counseling master's degree and then going for PhD in Counseling Psychology.

Overall Projected GPA: 3.8
Psych GPA: 4.0
Last Two Years GPA: 3.9
I graduated a BS in Health Science and Rehabilitation Studies with a concentration in substance abuse counseling and a minor in Psychology

GRE: Taking it in a few weeks and plan on taking it until I get to that 1200 goal at least. SAT's for M: 640 W: 620, and CR: 680

Clinical Experience: 8 Years working as a counselor in both domestic violence shelter and psychiatric rehabilitation residential and 4 Years as rape crisis counselor
Research Experience: Not a whole lot of research experience form a small liberal arts school
Other Experience: Co-Authoring a textbook with a professor this year, Got accepted into the SAMHSA internships for Spring 2013, and 2 Years of TA for a bio statistics professor, 15 credits of graduate courses including research methods (3.98 for all grad courses)


Looking for mainly if I'm competitive for any GA available for PsyD because of the limited amount. Any help would be greatly appreciated! 🙂

 

[Pav214]

Hi all,

I'm following suit and putting myself out there. I welcome any feedback/advice/critiques!

I am applying to the following 13 PhD programs. All are Clinical Psych, apart from NYU which is Counseling, and I'm considering tacking on a couple of PsyD programs.

Fordham
LIU
Farleigh-Dickinson
Teacher's College
Rutgers
St. John's
Hofstra
NYU Counseling
UC Berkeley
Vanderbilt
UMass Boston
UHawaii
Temple

Undergrad GPA: 3.54 Psych GPA: 3.63
M.A. in Psych GPA: 3.93
GRE: equivalent to a 1350 in the old scoring system, but I am taking them again as I didn't time myself on the practice tests (stupid, I know) and kept running out of time with the math. Verbal was in the 90th percentile. Cumulative score should be in the 1400 range if the second time around, if practice tests are an indicator.
Psych GRE: 740

Research Experience- 1 year (10 hrs/week) as an R.A. during my M.A. program and did a directed study in the lab. Currently working as a full time research coordinator in the Psych dept at Mount Sinai, and will have been here for a year when I apply.

Clinical Experience- Worked as a case manager for 2 summers (equivalent of two months) dealing with clients with a variety of mental illnesses.
Did an internship at a therapeutic community and worked on both a family unit and a unit for personality disorders (my current area of research). My title was 'psychosocial aid'.
Currently volunteering on a suicide hotline- ends up being about 5 hrs/week
Worked in a child psych center early in college but was mostly doing administrative tasks and shadowing

Publications: One paper from my M.A. program (in press) and currently working on another. Could possibly be able to do some editing for a third.

Teaching experience (I don't know if this makes a difference!): I am starting to teach online undergraduate intro to psych courses for a small university in CT- they run in 8-week modules.
I took a year off from psych after my Masters and taught English to cute little French kids in Paris.

Please critique away!

 

[epaul11]

I’ve been looking through these boards to get a sense of where I stand as an applicant for Counseling Psychology Ph.d. programs for the fall of 2013 but I’m still pretty clueless (and starting to get extremely worried). Could someone WAMC me for the following programs? Does anyone think it would be more realistic to go for a master’s first? Thanks in advance!

Stats
Undergrad GPA: 3.4
Psych major GPA: 3.5
GREs: total 1330- 162V (640/89%), 154Q (690/60%), 4.5AW (73%)
Departmental Honors in psychology
Psi Chi member

Research Experience
-Honors senior thesis (original empirical research)
-1.5 years as a Research Assistant for a large private research firm that does research in education (I’ve been involved in writing a literature review, survey design, cognitive interviewing, etc.)

Clinical Experience
-Summer internship at an adolescent day treatment program
-Volunteer at a hospital on the Oncology unit

No publications, but I presented my thesis at my college’s annual research conference. Solid letters of recommendation and SOPs.

Ph.d programs
Fordham University (this would be my first choice)
NYU
Columbia, Teachers College
SUNY Albany
University of Maryland
University of Minnesota
Lehigh University
Clark University (The only clinical program on my list. I wouldn’t bother but I think I have a really good match with a professor there.)
Purdue University
Indiana University
University of Missouri

 

[nessa34]

Hi all,

I'm following suit and putting myself out there. I welcome any feedback/advice/critiques!

I am applying to the following 13 PhD programs. All are Clinical Psych, apart from NYU which is Counseling, and I'm considering tacking on a couple of PsyD programs.

Fordham
LIU
Farleigh-Dickinson
Teacher's College
Rutgers
St. John's
Hofstra
NYU Counseling
UC Berkeley
Vanderbilt
UMass Boston
UHawaii
Temple

Undergrad GPA: 3.54 Psych GPA: 3.63
M.A. in Psych GPA: 3.93
GRE: equivalent to a 1350 in the old scoring system, but I am taking them again as I didn't time myself on the practice tests (stupid, I know) and kept running out of time with the math. Verbal was in the 90th percentile. Cumulative score should be in the 1400 range if the second time around, if practice tests are an indicator.
Psych GRE: 740

Research Experience- 1 year (10 hrs/week) as an R.A. during my M.A. program and did a directed study in the lab. Currently working as a full time research coordinator in the Psych dept at Mount Sinai, and will have been here for a year when I apply.

Clinical Experience- Worked as a case manager for 2 summers (equivalent of two months) dealing with clients with a variety of mental illnesses.
Did an internship at a therapeutic community and worked on both a family unit and a unit for personality disorders (my current area of research). My title was 'psychosocial aid'.
Currently volunteering on a suicide hotline- ends up being about 5 hrs/week
Worked in a child psych center early in college but was mostly doing administrative tasks and shadowing

Publications: One paper from my M.A. program (in press) and currently working on another. Could possibly be able to do some editing for a third.

Teaching experience (I don't know if this makes a difference!): I am starting to teach online undergraduate intro to psych courses for a small university in CT- they run in 8-week modules.
I took a year off from psych after my Masters and taught English to cute little French kids in Paris.

Please critique away!

Your stats look fine but your selection of programs is all over the place. Are you looking for clinical science or balanced programs? Do you have a research interest that people are studying at each of those schools?

 

[Goodluckchuck]

Hey guys!

I am applying to 4 clinical PhD schools that are listed below...I'd like to at least get into 2 or 3...I'm sure I can def get into at least freaking one.

UCLA
TEXAS
OHIO STATE
UNC CHAPEL HILL

My GPA is a 3.04
GRE: 1030
Research experience: None. I think research is boring and tedious.
Clinical Experience: I have been a great person for my friends to talk to when they have problems. I also have no problem talking to younger kids and trying to inspire them.

So any advice on what my changes will be to get into 2-3 programs? I know I'll at least get into one of these but hoping to get into all of them.

Thanks!

 

[mewtoo]

Hey guys!

I am applying to 4 clinical PhD schools that are listed below...I'd like to at least get into 2 or 3...I'm sure I can def get into at least freaking one.

UCLA
TEXAS
OHIO STATE
UNC CHAPEL HILL

My GPA is a 3.04
GRE: 1030
Research experience: None. I think research is boring and tedious.
Clinical Experience: I have been a great person for my friends to talk to when they have problems. I also have no problem talking to younger kids and trying to inspire them.

So any advice on what my changes will be to get into 2-3 programs? I know I'll at least get into one of these but hoping to get into all of them.

Thanks!

 

[Psych2011]

👍

 

[Psychadelic2012]

Hey guys!

I am applying to 4 clinical PhD schools that are listed below...I'd like to at least get into 2 or 3...I'm sure I can def get into at least freaking one.

UCLA
TEXAS
OHIO STATE
UNC CHAPEL HILL

My GPA is a 3.04
GRE: 1030
Research experience: None. I think research is boring and tedious.
Clinical Experience: I have been a great person for my friends to talk to when they have problems. I also have no problem talking to younger kids and trying to inspire them.

So any advice on what my changes will be to get into 2-3 programs? I know I'll at least get into one of these but hoping to get into all of them.

Thanks!

Goodluckchuck is quite the jokester. Good one!

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Hey guys!

*awesomeness*

Thanks!

 

[PsychPhDone]

😍

Hey guys!

I am applying to 4 clinical PhD schools that are listed below...I'd like to at least get into 2 or 3...I'm sure I can def get into at least freaking one.

UCLA
TEXAS
OHIO STATE
UNC CHAPEL HILL

My GPA is a 3.04
GRE: 1030
Research experience: None. I think research is boring and tedious.
Clinical Experience: I have been a great person for my friends to talk to when they have problems. I also have no problem talking to younger kids and trying to inspire them.

So any advice on what my changes will be to get into 2-3 programs? I know I'll at least get into one of these but hoping to get into all of them.

Thanks!

 

[Member123412423]

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
1 poster as fourth author

It's not much, but do I have any chance at all?

 

[RossEmilyK]

Here are my stats:
GRE old score conversion: 1250 - 690 math, 560 verbal
GRE new score: 157 math 154 verbal
GPA: 3.89, 3.9 Psych GPA

Undergraduate career: Worked in a research lab (couple different ones) all semesters besides my first semester freshman year. Contributed to a workbook accompanying a TF-CBT manual (name is listed as a contributor).

Post-undergrad: Took a year off to teach English in Argentina (became fluent in Spanish) and for the past year I have worked as a Research Specialist with a research lab. I conduct research visits and also am a parent trainer for an intervention. I will be authored on a paper that will be under review soon and am hoping to attend SRCD in April.

Recommendations: I think I will have three solid recommendations.

I have not finalized a list yet but these are the schools I am considering. You will see that some schools are listed twice for both Developmental and Clinical because I have not decides which program to apply to.

Clinical -
-Rochester
-UCLA
-Denver
-University of Washington
-University of Oregon
-Arizona State
-Catholic
-Fordham
-GWU
-JMU
-VCU

Developmental -
-UC Davis
-Denver
-Fordham University
-George Mason
-Georgetown Human Development
-Lehigh Human Development
-UMD Human Development
-UMBC
-NYU
-Penn State Human Development
-Pittsburgh (top choice)
-Rochester
-Temple
-UVA
-VCU
-Virginia Tech

Any advice or help would be great!

Thanks!
Emily

 

[AcronymAllergy]

As you're considering both developmental and clinical programs, this begs the question--what are your career goals? Are you planning on looking for a full research position, or are you wanting to mix in some clinical work at some point?

Your GPA is solid, your research experience seems great, and your GRE doesn't seem like it would hinder you (although the 560 verbal could raise an eyebrow or two, depending on the POI and how nit-picky they are, so just be sure that your essays are very polished). UCLA could be an exception there, as they'll probably look for something more in the 1300-1400+ range. No harm in applying, though.

Here are my stats:
GRE old score conversion: 1250 - 690 math, 560 verbal
GRE new score: 157 math 154 verbal
GPA: 3.89, 3.9 Psych GPA

Undergraduate career: Worked in a research lab (couple different ones) all semesters besides my first semester freshman year. Contributed to a workbook accompanying a TF-CBT manual (name is listed as a contributor).

Post-undergrad: Took a year off to teach English in Argentina (became fluent in Spanish) and for the past year I have worked as a Research Specialist with a research lab. I conduct research visits and also am a parent trainer for an intervention. I will be authored on a paper that will be under review soon and am hoping to attend SRCD in April.

Recommendations: I think I will have three solid recommendations.

I have not finalized a list yet but these are the schools I am considering. You will see that some schools are listed twice for both Developmental and Clinical because I have not decides which program to apply to.

Clinical -
-Rochester
-UCLA
-Denver
-University of Washington
-University of Oregon
-Arizona State
-Catholic
-Fordham
-GWU
-JMU
-VCU

Developmental -
-UC Davis
-Denver
-Fordham University
-George Mason
-Georgetown Human Development
-Lehigh Human Development
-UMD Human Development
-UMBC
-NYU
-Penn State Human Development
-Pittsburgh (top choice)
-Rochester
-Temple
-UVA
-VCU
-Virginia Tech

Any advice or help would be great!

Thanks!
Emily

 

[Psychcs]

Hello Everyone,

I've been following this forum since my junior year and its finally my turn to post some stats for myself!


GPA: 3.46
Psych GPA 3.5

GRE New format - Q -162 V 155 (86th and 69th Percentile)

Old score conversion - Q 780 , V 530. (totally not stellar, i know it)


Research Experience - 1 year Undegrad research in depression lab
Current job as RA in a neurocognitive behavioral disorder Lab


Publication is on the way! (Hopefully)


Any thoughts on what kind of schools I have a shot at?


Btw... How do I differentiate between first and second tier schools?

 

[adhdresearch]

Hi all,

Please help!!

I've really only been highly interested in the Rutgers Psy.D clinical program... would love to know my chances, as I know it's a difficult program to get into.

I enjoy research but want to work in the clinical field, ideally with children with behavior, mood, or anxiety disorders (not sure what setting yet). If you know of any great Ph.D programs that have a more balanced focus rather than mostly a research focus (and with faculty researching the above disorders and their treatments), and that you think I have any shot at, I would appreciate your advice too!!

My "stats":
BA in psychology from one of the better liberal arts universities (2010)
GPA: 3.75; Psych GPA: 3.90
GRE: Verbal: 670 (93%); Quant: 740 (74%); Analytical: 5.0 (92%)
No psych GRE yet (will take in Nov)
Psi Chi

No thesis

Undergrad Research/Experience:
Worked in two labs (one more basic stuff in social psych, another with a focus on cognitive development, more involved); took 2 research methods courses (cognitive affective neuropsych and psychology of ethnic minorities) which were both quite involved; volunteered in a couple of schools working with children with Autism and other disorders; study abroad in Europe in a Psychology of Child Development program which involved 50 hours in a practicum in a center for children with developmental disorders; developmental psych TA

Since graduation:
Volunteered at the NIH (molecular biology lab, researched genes implicated in Autism); worked for a treatment study as an intervention coach (in schools) for children with ADHD; most recently a research coordinator for another study (NIH funded, at a university) related to ADHD in preschoolers. While at this last position, have been trained in various neuropsych tests and am being trained on a semi-structured diagnostic interview.

Posters:
1st author on poster to be presented at AACAP; 1st author on NIH poster (summer research program); did a couple of posters for psychology day in college

No papers

Recommendations:
Boss at my research coordinator position, old professor from college, and not sure about the third: either a post-doc I have worked more closely with (and I know likes me) or a co-investigator in my study who doesn't know me AS well but who has a better "title" and could probably write more eloquently (but might be less glowing since doesn't know me as well: tips??)

Let me know what you think, I really appreciate any help!! Thanks!!

 

[ceruleania]

.

 

[thewesternsky]

Your credentials are great, and you're applying to a good mix of programs. Ask one of your letter of rec people to look over your Statement of Purpose and give you feedback-- You want your research interests description to be specific but not TOO specific, and discussion of fit with the program/advisor is also important.

You'll likely get a number of interviews. 🙂 Good luck!

Please help me out with some honest feedback/advice about my realistic chances! I'm really nervous and would love to hear any candid thoughts.

I'm currently in the last year of my B.S. in Psychology and I'll be graduating this spring with Distinction at a highly ranked university. I'm applying to Clinical Psychology Programs for Fall 2013, specifically I'll be applying to the developmental track of these programs. Any input on my credentials/chances of acceptance/ points of weakness would be greatly appreciated.

Programs I'm applying to:

University of Rochester
University of Vermont
Temple University
Penn State University
Kent State University
Eastern Michigan University
University of Houston
University of Virginia
Fordham University
University of Denver
Suffolk University
University of Tennessee
University of Minnesota (reach)
University of California Berkeley (reach)

Undergraduate GPA: 3.929
Psychology GPA: 4.0

GRE scores:

• Quantitative: 162 (770-780 on old scale), 86th percentile

• Verbal: 160 (600-620 on the old scale), 83rd percentile

• Analytical Writing: 5.0, 92nd percentile

Research experience:

4 years of undergraduate research experience at my University (in three different research labs:

• First 2 years were in a Clinical Psychophysiology lab -> no publications

• 1st half of third year was spent in a Human Emotions Lab focusing on developmental psych

• Junior year to present has been spent in a Developmental psychopathology lab, where I'm currently writing my senior thesis on attachment & Attachment Based Family Therapy (this is the area I will be pursuing in potential grad school programs), I also have a research publication under submission at the SRCD biennial meeting from this lab.

1 research internship on health-behavior/health psychology over the summer at a Graduate School for Biomedical Sciences/Medical School

• Won Dean's Award for being the highest scoring presenter at the Poster Session
• Attended a research conference on health behavior, though didn't present

Publications/Manuscripts in Preparation:

• 1 paper submission under review in attachment-related research (what I'm pursuing in graduate school)

• 1 manuscript in preparation on the health-behavior research I carried out over the summer -> will be submitted for publication in a major journal by October, so I will be able to list it as "under review" on my CV in applications

Clinical experience:

• Shadowed a clinical psychologist in a major burn hospital for children. Actively participated in coping and grief therapy sessions, attended ICU psychologist visits, and helped lead parent/adolescent support groups. Also was trained in PCIT
• Part of a Child Interview Team in the Head Start Programs

Presentations:

• Poster Session at the medical hospital/school I did summer research at
• potentially one at the SRCD biennial meeting

Honor Societies:
Member of Psi Chi International Honor Society for Psychology

 

[spector0]

I might as well take a stab at it:

B.S. in Psychology (2012)
Gpa: 3.64
Psy Gps 3.74
Cum laude
Departmental Honors in Psychology
Undergraduate Research Scholar
GRE: Verbal 158, Quant 150, Analytical 4.0
2 Scholarships
Primary Author on my thesis, which was presented at my schools research day. Currently revising its manuscript for publication.

I worked as an undergraduate teaching fellow in abnormal psychology for a year under my thesis advisor. I worked as a RA in two labs, one experimental and one anxiety. I should have extremely solid letters. I also currently work in a residential treatment center as full time staff.

I'm applying to the following schools:

University of Memphis
University of Utah
University of Central Florida
Uniformed Services University
Idaho State University
University of Nevada, Reno
George Mason
Georgia State University
Palo Alto University

I'm mostly interested in military related PTSD.

 

[futureapppsy2]

I might as well take a stab at it:

B.S. in Psychology (2012)
Gpa: 3.64
Psy Gps 3.74
Cum laude
Departmental Honors in Psychology
Undergraduate Research Scholar
GRE: Verbal 158, Quant 150, Analytical 4.0
2 Scholarships
Primary Author on my thesis, which was presented at my schools research day. Currently revising its manuscript for publication.

I worked as an undergraduate teaching fellow in abnormal psychology for a year under my thesis advisor. I worked as a RA in two labs, one experimental and one anxiety. I should have extremely solid letters. I also currently work in a residential treatment center as full time staff.

I'm applying to the following schools:

University of Memphis
University of Utah
University of Central Florida
Uniformed Services University
Idaho State University
University of Nevada, Reno
George Mason
Georgia State University
Palo Alto University

I'm mostly interested in military related PTSD.

You seem like a very solid candidate, and I think you'll have as good a chance as anyone. I'd strongly reconsider Palo Alto due to the extremely high cost and lack of funding, unless you can get full military funding through HSPS. Good luck

 

[rerope]

okay please be brutal although i'm not too hopeful about my chances because frankly my stats kinda suck

Stats
GPA: 3.48 overall, 3.8 psychology
GRE: 161 V, 155 Q, 4.0 A <- i don't know what happened here i'm still reeling

research experience:
- one year as an RA in a social psychology prejudice and maternal/ clinical complications
- one year as an RA in a social psychology/neurobiology lab
- two years + as an RA in a social psychology lab (that does alot of overlap projects) that looks at intimate partner violence effects on maternal health
- Summer research abroad funded by the NIH to study neurobiology in France

Internship:
CHILL peer intern - students are trained in outreach, depression screenings etc

Funding:
- the summer program mentioned above
- NIH fellowship grant

Will have very solid Recs
in depth course work ranging from biology and organic chemistry to social and clinical psychology with advanced statistics and extensive research methods classes


schools i'm looking at approx 13 but not all are listed (hopefully these aren't too out of my reach)
- UNC chapel hill
- UC berkeley
- UC LA
- UPenn
- U Mich Ann Arbor
- Duke
- U Illionois Champagne
- U Florida
- Boston U
- Northwestern

Thank you!

 

[nessa34]

okay please be brutal although i'm not too hopeful about my chances because frankly my stats kinda suck

Stats
GPA: 3.48 overall, 3.8 psychology
GRE: 161 V, 155 Q, 4.0 A <- i don't know what happened here i'm still reeling

research experience:
- one year as an RA in a social psychology prejudice and maternal/ clinical complications
- one year as an RA in a social psychology/neurobiology lab
- two years + as an RA in a social psychology lab (that does alot of overlap projects) that looks at intimate partner violence effects on maternal health
- Summer research abroad funded by the NIH to study neurobiology in France

Internship:
CHILL peer intern - students are trained in outreach, depression screenings etc

Funding:
- the summer program mentioned above
- NIH fellowship grant

Will have very solid Recs
in depth course work ranging from biology and organic chemistry to social and clinical psychology with advanced statistics and extensive research methods classes


schools i'm looking at approx 13 but not all are listed (hopefully these aren't too out of my reach)
- UNC chapel hill
- UC berkeley
- UC LA
- UPenn
- U Mich Ann Arbor
- Duke
- U Illionois Champagne
- U Florida
- Boston U
- Northwestern

Thank you!

your stats are not awful, don't worry. i don't think people really care about the writing section on the gre. for your research, do you have any posters, presentations, or publications? that will help.

you are also applying to all very competitive schools. although your stats are fine, you need to really stand out- or have connections- to get in to those schools. are there slightly less competitive schools you are interested in, as well?

 

[rerope]

your stats are not awful, don't worry. i don't think people really care about the writing section on the gre. for your research, do you have any posters, presentations, or publications? that will help.

you are also applying to all very competitive schools. although your stats are fine, you need to really stand out- or have connections- to get in to those schools. are there slightly less competitive schools you are interested in, as well?

Thanks, I'm actually a pretty decent/good writer when it comes to most things and excellent when its something i care about (which didn't include the GRE essay😴). And unfortunately no pubs or conferences (was supposed to go to a conference this year but mentor flaked out on me). I've always been too busy with my job (i pay my own tuition) to do much of anything extra.

I was hoping that U florida and Fordham would be safer schools but in all honesty i want to stay in places i'm more familiar with/heard more about such as the coasts or where family is present. However, any recommendations would be really appreciated.

 

[AcronymAllergy]

Thanks, I'm actually a pretty decent/good writer when it comes to most things and excellent when its something i care about (which didn't include the GRE essay😴). And unfortunately no pubs or conferences (was supposed to go to a conference this year but mentor flaked out on me). I've always been too busy with my job (i pay my own tuition) to do much of anything extra.

I was hoping that U florida and Fordham would be safer schools but in all honesty i want to stay in places i'm more familiar with/heard more about such as the coasts or where family is present. However, any recommendations would be really appreciated.

I agree with the suggestion to throw in a few more "mid-tier" (in terms of competitiveness) programs, although I don't have any specific recommendations on that front. In general, these schools tend to be somewhat less-competitive not because of their training or reputation, but because of their location. The coasts are obviously great places to live, but because of that, schools there tend to receive a MUCH greater number of applications. Looking for places in less-populated/rural areas can turn up quite a few gems, if you're able to handle living there for 4-7 years.

As for the writing score, more profs are probably paying attention to it nowadays than when it first came out, but I don't think it's going to keep anyone out of most grad programs. That being said, I certainly wouldn't ever mention the not caring about the GRE essays part. Having sat through it myself, I can of course understand the sentiment, but you'll be required to write quite a few things that you might not necessarily be terribly interested in throughout grad school, and one of the most important skills you'll develop is learning how to slog through those projects (and juggling them with a dozen other things) while still producing a respectable product.

 

[rerope]

ahh maybe i should rephrase that. even if i know the task is a mundane one (sludging through piles of articles to do a lit search) i know it has a purpose. eh but whats done is done.

would mid-tier be like Temple, Fordham, Hofstra, and Drexel? as you can see i'm terrible at looking for schools (its like high school all over again)

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

would mid-tier be like Temple, Fordham, Hofstra, and Drexel? as you can see i'm terrible at looking for schools (its like high school all over again)

You should consider the application process a vital part of your career path because finding the best fit of programs will impact not only your chances to be accepted, but it also impacts the focus of training you will receive (if accepted).

A place like UF is a top tier choice for many (at least in certain areas like neuropsych). Looking at your list you are looking at mostly top tier places, so getting a few interviews would be impressive. I know a couple of those programs pretty well, and you definitely need to have solid research experience to even make the second cut (after GPA & GRE). For instance, i believe BU's acceptance rate hovers around <3%, makng it one of the most selective programs in the country. Duke and UM are in that same ballpark. It may depend on the area, as some labs will only accept 1-2 ppl over a few years, while others may offer more spots.

 

[rosethud]

.

 

[TiptoeConqueror]

Hi,

I'm looking for very honest feedback about my likelihood of getting accepted to any of the schools below:

BU
Marquette
San Diego State/UCSD
U of Alabama - Birmingham
U of AZ
UCB
U of Houston-TX
U of KS
U of Louisville
UMass-Amherst
USC
U of TX-Austin
U of UT
U of Wisconsin-Madison
Washington Univ in St. Louis

Interests: Aging, Alzheimer's Disease, Neuropsychology

B.S. Psych from state school + three minors (Criminal Justice, English, AA studies)
Undergrad TGPA: 3.55 (was a chem major before 🙁)
Psychology GPA: 3.9
Cum laude
Honors student all 4 years

GRE V: 162 (89%)
GRE Q: 153 (56%) --> Spent all my studying time on math and less than a week on verbal and I still did better in that domain. Math has never been my thing on standardized tests. Not sure I could improve that score if I took it again.
GRE AW: 4 (49%) --> I've actually been told I'm an excellent writer and felt very confident about my essays so I don't know where I went wrong.

Became a psych major halfway through second semester sophomore year. Spent a semester of junior year abroad. Completed independent senior thesis with cognitive psych prof and that is currently being included in other projects he has worked on since then to be published.

Presentations: Poster session at undergrad university.

Research: 1 - senior thesis, 2 - 2+ years at Ivy League univ as RA for AD studies. Have worked on numerous trials and been trained on several neurocognitive batteries/tests.

Recommendations: 1 - Prof I did my senior thesis with, 2 - PI I work with now, 3 - my other PI. Pretty confident that I will have solid recs.

Please be honest. What are my chances? I'm extremely motivated to go to grad school.

Also, should I apply to Master's Programs instead and then a PhD? What is the weakest part of my profile?

Thanks!

 

[tanxa]

Hi guys!
I'm a student from Singapore and I can't seem to find anyone who knows much about PsyD programs in the States, but this forum seems really cool! I would really sincerely appreciate the help! 🙂
I'm hoping to enter one of the following psyD programs (in order of preference):

PGSP-Stanford Consortium
Widener University
University of Denver
Rosemead School of Psych
Fuller
Cal Sch of Professional Psych

These are my stats:

GRE
Verbal 163
Quant 162
Analytical 5.0

Psych 790

GPA
Converted my local Uni's CAP to USA's equivalent GPA of 3.92

Research experience:
1 year RA in my university's Brain & Behaviour Lab
2 independent research papers (empirical papers completed for course credit, but no publication)
Internship with my country's Ministry of Education working on large scale research proj
Currently working on my Honours Thesis

Clinically relevant exp:
Volunteer at University of Oregon's EC CARES, Autism Classroom
Internship with psych services in a prison
Volunteer with a play therapy program in a local children's hospital

What are my chances? 🙂

 

[Psychcs]

I'm from SG too! But I did my studies in the states...

Anyway, your GRE scores are decent and your GPA should put you safely in 1st class honors (US equivalent - Summa cum laude)

My suggestion is for you to try top PsyD schools such as rutgers. It is wise not to apply to professional schools that are ... in my view ... diploma mills.
http://gsappweb.rutgers.edu/programs/clinical/


Why PsyD anyway?

 

[tanxa]

I'm from SG too! But I did my studies in the states...

Anyway, your GRE scores are decent and your GPA should put you safely in 1st class honors (US equivalent - Summa cum laude)

My suggestion is for you to try top PsyD schools such as rutgers. It is wise not to apply to professional schools that are ... in my view ... diploma mills.
http://gsappweb.rutgers.edu/programs/clinical/


Why PsyD anyway?

Oh cool! Thanks for getting back to me! Are you currently working in the states?

Hmm yes I did look at Rutgers. I guess I'll reconsider it again! The professional schools are my safety schools and I would really like to be in california. I'm also applying to UC Santa Barbara's Masters in School Psych.
Do you know of any other decent PsyD schools in Cali?

Anyways I decided on PsyD as I would really like to focus on clinical training. After my stints of involvement in research, I'm not sure I'm cut out for a 3-4 yr long research project in PhD. And I'm not intending to go into teaching/research at all. So a psyD seems sufficient? May I ask about your own experience? 🙂

 

[Psychcs]

I'm back in Singapore working in a medical school doing research... Well.. If funding is not an issue for you and you prefer more on clinical training, PsyD will be a good choice. (Note: PsyD doesnt mean that there is no research component in your program.

Personally, I will totally exclude professional schools as my safety schools... just personal preference.

Clinical Psych PhD has the clinical training component too! I will think that PhD is the best of both world, both clinical and academia.

 

[tanxa]

Yes, I do know that PsyD still has 1-2 years of research. But I very much like that many of those programmes start off with clinical training immediately. Also I think my chances for a phD prog in California esp are pretty slim as I havent had professional experience, which most of the progs I looked at seem to favour.
Do you know what my chances for Widener and the Consortium might be though?

 

[TiptoeConqueror]

Sorry to post my stats again, just wondering if anyone can provide any feedback. Thanks!

Hi,

I'm looking for very honest feedback about my likelihood of getting accepted to any of the schools below:

BU
Marquette
San Diego State/UCSD
U of Alabama - Birmingham
U of AZ
UCB
U of Houston-TX
U of KS
U of Louisville
UMass-Amherst
USC
U of TX-Austin
U of UT
U of Wisconsin-Madison
Washington Univ in St. Louis

Interests: Aging/Alzheimer's Disease/Neuropsychology

B.S. Psych from state school + three minors (Criminal Justice, English, AA studies)
Undergrad TGPA: 3.55 (was a chem major before 🙁)
Psychology GPA: 3.9
Cum laude
Honors student all 4 years

GRE V: 162 (89%)
GRE Q: 153 (56%) --> Spent all my studying time on math and less than a week on verbal and I still did better in that domain. Math has never been my thing on standardized tests. Not sure I could improve that score if I took it again.
GRE AW: 4 (49%) --> I've actually been told I'm an excellent writer and felt very confident about my essays so I don't know where I went wrong.

Will be taking the Psych GRE soon...

Became a psych major halfway through second semester sophomore year. Spent a semester of junior year abroad. Completed independent senior thesis with cognitive psych prof and that is currently being included in other projects he has worked on since then to be published.

Presentations: Poster session at undergrad university.

Research: 1 - senior thesis, 2 - 2+ years at Ivy League univ as RA for AD studies. Have worked on numerous trials and been trained on several neurocognitive batteries/tests.

Recommendations: 1 - Prof I did my senior thesis with, 2 - PI I work with now, 3 - my other PI. Pretty confident that I will have solid recs.

Please be honest. What are my chances? I'm extremely motivated to go to grad school.

Also, should I apply to Master's Programs instead and then a PhD? What is the weakest part of my profile?

Thanks!

 

[AcronymAllergy]

You've chosen a good number of competitive programs, but you also have at least a handful of solid but likely less-competitive (usually owing to location) places as well. I'd be surprised if you didn't land at least a couple interviews.

I personally don't see any particularly weak areas of your application. Based on %'s, I'm guessing your GRE falls somewhere in the 1300-ish range on the old scale? If so, you should be fine there. GPA may be on the average side compared to other applicants, but that's not necessarily going to be a significant "ding." 2+ years of research experience along with some presentations and a senior thesis should keep you in the running in that area.

Others can of course feel free to chime in and disagree with me, but again, I don't see anything here that would lead me to believe there's a gaping flaw in your app anywhere.

Sorry to post my stats again, just wondering if anyone can provide any feedback. Thanks!

Hi,

I'm looking for very honest feedback about my likelihood of getting accepted to any of the schools below:

BU
Marquette
San Diego State/UCSD
U of Alabama - Birmingham
U of AZ
UCB
U of Houston-TX
U of KS
U of Louisville
UMass-Amherst
USC
U of TX-Austin
U of UT
U of Wisconsin-Madison
Washington Univ in St. Louis

Interests: Aging/Alzheimer's Disease/Neuropsychology

B.S. Psych from state school + three minors (Criminal Justice, English, AA studies)
Undergrad TGPA: 3.55 (was a chem major before 🙁)
Psychology GPA: 3.9
Cum laude
Honors student all 4 years

GRE V: 162 (89%)
GRE Q: 153 (56%) --> Spent all my studying time on math and less than a week on verbal and I still did better in that domain. Math has never been my thing on standardized tests. Not sure I could improve that score if I took it again.
GRE AW: 4 (49%) --> I've actually been told I'm an excellent writer and felt very confident about my essays so I don't know where I went wrong.

Will be taking the Psych GRE soon...

Became a psych major halfway through second semester sophomore year. Spent a semester of junior year abroad. Completed independent senior thesis with cognitive psych prof and that is currently being included in other projects he has worked on since then to be published.

Presentations: Poster session at undergrad university.

Research: 1 - senior thesis, 2 - 2+ years at Ivy League univ as RA for AD studies. Have worked on numerous trials and been trained on several neurocognitive batteries/tests.

Recommendations: 1 - Prof I did my senior thesis with, 2 - PI I work with now, 3 - my other PI. Pretty confident that I will have solid recs.

Please be honest. What are my chances? I'm extremely motivated to go to grad school.

Also, should I apply to Master's Programs instead and then a PhD? What is the weakest part of my profile?

Thanks!

 

[thatfancy]

Hey everyone! I'd like to see what my chances are of getting into a PhD program for clinical psychology.

My Stats:

BA (2012) in Psychology (Honors in Major), German
Magna Cum Laude
GPA: 3.741
Psych GPA: 3.82

GREs:
Quantitative: 157 (730 old score)
Verbal: 164 (670 old score)
Analytical Writing: 4.5
Psychology GRE: 720

Research Experience:
I worked in a personality lab for three years and a social psychology lab for one year. I wrote an honors thesis and presented the information via a poster presentation twice within my college. I also did a poster presentation within the college on my research during my sophomore year.

Clinical Experience:
I've worked as a part-time Mental Health Specialist in a therapeutic milieu since my second to last semester of college. I work with children who not only suffer from severe psychiatric impairments, but also come from abusive backgrounds. It's these types of children I'm looking to do research on while getting my PhD.

Honor Societies:
Phi Beta Kappa
Psi Chi

Letters of Recommendation:
The two professors I've done research with and one who ran the honors seminar I was in will make up my three recs.

Programs I'm applying to:
University of Rochester
Duke University
University of Delaware
University of Connecticut
SUNY Albany
University of Vermont
University of Kansas, Clinical Child Psychology Program
University of Southern California
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Penn State University

So, do I have a shot?

 

[PsychPhDone]

Sorry to post my stats again, just wondering if anyone can provide any feedback. Thanks!

Hi,

I'm looking for very honest feedback about my likelihood of getting accepted to any of the schools below:

BU
Marquette
San Diego State/UCSD
U of Alabama - Birmingham
U of AZ
UCB
U of Houston-TX
U of KS
U of Louisville
UMass-Amherst
USC
U of TX-Austin
U of UT
U of Wisconsin-Madison
Washington Univ in St. Louis

Interests: Aging/Alzheimer's Disease/Neuropsychology

B.S. Psych from state school + three minors (Criminal Justice, English, AA studies)
Undergrad TGPA: 3.55 (was a chem major before 🙁)
Psychology GPA: 3.9
Cum laude
Honors student all 4 years

GRE V: 162 (89%)
GRE Q: 153 (56%) --> Spent all my studying time on math and less than a week on verbal and I still did better in that domain. Math has never been my thing on standardized tests. Not sure I could improve that score if I took it again.
GRE AW: 4 (49%) --> I've actually been told I'm an excellent writer and felt very confident about my essays so I don't know where I went wrong.

Will be taking the Psych GRE soon...

Became a psych major halfway through second semester sophomore year. Spent a semester of junior year abroad. Completed independent senior thesis with cognitive psych prof and that is currently being included in other projects he has worked on since then to be published.

Presentations: Poster session at undergrad university.

Research: 1 - senior thesis, 2 - 2+ years at Ivy League univ as RA for AD studies. Have worked on numerous trials and been trained on several neurocognitive batteries/tests.

Recommendations: 1 - Prof I did my senior thesis with, 2 - PI I work with now, 3 - my other PI. Pretty confident that I will have solid recs.

Please be honest. What are my chances? I'm extremely motivated to go to grad school.

Also, should I apply to Master's Programs instead and then a PhD? What is the weakest part of my profile?

Thanks!

I, too, think you'll probably land a few interviews. Your quant is a bit low but overall you look like a solid applicant with experience in your desired research topic. Good luck!

 

[PsychPhDone]

Hey everyone! I'd like to see what my chances are of getting into a PhD program for clinical psychology.

My Stats:

BA (2012) in Psychology (Honors in Major), German
Magna Cum Laude
GPA: 3.741
Psych GPA: 3.82

GREs:
Quantitative: 157 (730 old score)
Verbal: 164 (670 old score)
Analytical Writing: 4.5
Psychology GRE: 720

Research Experience:
I worked in a personality lab for three years and a social psychology lab for one year. I wrote an honors thesis and presented the information via a poster presentation twice within my college. I also did a poster presentation within the college on my research during my sophomore year.

Clinical Experience:
I've worked as a part-time Mental Health Specialist in a therapeutic milieu since my second to last semester of college. I work with children who not only suffer from severe psychiatric impairments, but also come from abusive backgrounds. It's these types of children I'm looking to do research on while getting my PhD.

Honor Societies:
Phi Beta Kappa
Psi Chi

Letters of Recommendation:
The two professors I've done research with and one who ran the honors seminar I was in will make up my three recs.

Programs I'm applying to:
University of Rochester
Duke University
University of Delaware
University of Connecticut
SUNY Albany
University of Vermont
University of Kansas, Clinical Child Psychology Program
University of Southern California
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Penn State University

So, do I have a shot?

Was any of your research full-time? Depending on the POI and the competition, you might get a few interviews. I got some interviews at places on that list when I applied straight out of undergrad. I got many, many more after working in research full-time. But I still think you have a decent shot, especially if you are applying to who I think you are at a couple of these places.

I'd add a few more programs to your list if you could. Many of these are severely competitive (and awesome) in the child track. Good luck!

 

[fallen625]

My Stats:

BA (2011) in Psychology (Honors in Major), Business
Phi Beta Kappa
GPA: 3.85

GREs:
Quantitative: 161 (770 old score)
Verbal: 161 (620 old score)
1st Tier Public School University

Research Experience:
Worked in an eating disorders lab for 2.5 years, under a very well known investigator
1 2nd author publication
Honors Thesis

Clinical Experience:
None except for a semester big brother / big sisters mentoring

Work Experience:
Making a career switch from Wall Street with 1.5 years of experience

Letters of Recommendation:
The two professors I've done research with and one from the faculty adviser of a club I was president of on campus relating to eating disorder awareness

Note:
I would be visibly pregnant when interviewing... expecting this will hurt my chances but not sure by how much

Programs I'm applying to:
Interested in eating disorder research. Preferrably if it is in in NYC/NJ/CT or Boston or anywhere where husband could find a job at a hedge fund. Recommendations welcome!

So far I am thinking of

Duke
Rutgers (PsyD)
Drexel U
Farleigh Dickinson University
Boston University
Florida State
Virginia Consortium

 

[phillips101]

My Stats:

BA (2011) in Psychology (Honors in Major), Business
Phi Beta Kappa
GPA: 3.85

GREs:
Quantitative: 161 (770 old score)
Verbal: 161 (620 old score)
1st Tier Public School University

Research Experience:
Worked in an eating disorders lab for 2.5 years, under a very well known investigator
1 2nd author publication
Honors Thesis

Clinical Experience:
None except for a semester big brother / big sisters mentoring

Work Experience:
Making a career switch from Wall Street with 1.5 years of experience

Letters of Recommendation:
The two professors I've done research with and one from the faculty adviser of a club I was president of on campus relating to eating disorder awareness

Note:
I would be visibly pregnant when interviewing... expecting this will hurt my chances but not sure by how much

Programs I'm applying to:
Interested in eating disorder research. Preferrably if it is in in NYC/NJ/CT or Boston or anywhere where husband could find a job at a hedge fund. Recommendations welcome!

So far I am thinking of

Duke
Rutgers (PsyD)
Drexel U
Farleigh Dickinson University
Boston University
Florida State
Virginia Consortium

Just wondering, is there a reason why you're applying to Rutger's PsyD instead of PhD even though most of your experience is in research, not clinical? Also, I'm not familiar with Farleigh Dickinson and Virginia, but the others are one of the most competitive programs on the east coast.

 

[fallen625]

Just wondering, is there a reason why you're applying to Rutger's PsyD instead of PhD even though most of your experience is in research, not clinical? Also, I'm not familiar with Farleigh Dickinson and Virginia, but the others are one of the most competitive programs on the east coast.

Because from my understanding (haven't confirmed this through email to POI though) the person who does research on ED at Rutgers (PhD) is not taking any students this, but the person who does research on ED at the PsyD program is. Rutgers PsyD is a good fit in every other way.

 

[epaul11]

Hi friends, my post from a while ago seemed to get lost in this thread so I'm reposting it. I'm applying to Counseling Psychology Ph.D. programs except for one Clinical program. Does anyone think I should focus on Master's instead of PhD programs? I'm very concerned that I won't get in anywhere and will have to stay at my job for another year (I'm a research assistant, but it's not the kind of research I'm interested in).

Stats
Undergrad GPA: 3.4
Psych major GPA: 3.5
Jr./Sr. year GPA: 3.7
GREs: total 1330- 162V (640/89%), 154Q (690/60%), 4.5AW (73%)
Departmental Honors in psychology
Psi Chi member

Research Experience
-Honors senior thesis
-1.5 years as a Research Assistant for a large private research firm that does research in education (I’ve been involved in writing a literature review, survey design, cognitive interviewing, etc.)

Clinical Experience
-Summer internship at an adolescent day treatment program
-Volunteer at a hospital on the Oncology unit

I will be listed as a co-author on a government-contracted study at some point in the next few years but not in time to put on my resume now and make it sound legit. I presented my thesis at my college’s annual research conference. Very strong letters of recommendation and SOPs.

So here's my list:
Fordham University (this would be my first choice)
NYU
Columbia, Teachers College
SUNY Albany
University of Maryland
Lehigh University
Clark University (The one clinical program)
Purdue University
Indiana University
University of Missouri

Thank you very much in advance for any insight!

 

[PsySeeker]

Alright guys I've been watching this board for a long time and now it's my turn to go.😀

IUP's Psy.D Program is my number one choice for a variety of reasons. I really have my heart set on it, and I will be applying there and elsewhere for the 2013 cohort.

I am a non-traditional student, and I had nearly ten years of professional experience in business before going for my B.S. in Psychology from a good state school branch campus (I did take less than 40 credits at a local CC at the same time, hopefully this isn't a negative). I believe that this will allow me to provide some unique insight and diversity to the program.

Stats:
Undergrad GPA to date, 3.95
Psych Major GPA to date 4.0

I will have completed the entirety of my degree (and most of what I list below) in little more than 24 consecutive months. Should I leverage this as a testament to my ability and drive, or ignore it knowing they will see it on the transcripts?

I have this semester to complete and one class to take in the Spring (Research Methodology, there was a scheduling conflict last Spring, and it was not available Fall semester). I do not expect my GPA to change materially upon completion of this semester.

GRE: Total combined 1320 to 1340 old scale. V 165 95% Q 151 48% AW 3.5 30%

I am above IUP's median in both V and Q (wish Q was higher but it was a struggle to get what I did) I am concerned about the AW.... IUP does not provide median scores for AW. I can write well but the lack of a spell checker and butterflies hurt me... I'm not sure I could improve on everything as a whole, and I am afraid to retest unless I really need to... Your thoughts on this are really appreciated, I will have to redo it soon if I decide to.

Not sure if I have to do the subject test. I thought I did and registered, brochure says yes, today I discovered the webpage says no. Planning to call tomorrow.

Psy Chi Chapter President

Psyc Club Treasurer

Campus scholarship 2012/2013

Research Experience:
1 semester of independent research on cognition. I will continue this research next Spring. When/ if it is published they will list me as an author, but not in time for the application.I will be attending but may or may not be presenting what we've done so far at the NYC EPA convention this Spring, it depends on our upcoming results.. I will also have my methodology course research, and while not complete at the time of application I've worked with the professor who teaches it in the past, and he will write me a LOR attesting to my ability to do well in it (at least since it will be my only class I can really go wild in it lol)

Does anyone know how important a research match is at IUP? Should I be trying to match up with a POI, or the program overall? This seems to be less emphasized there than a Ph.D program but if anyone actually knows how it is viewed there that would be a great help. I've PMed a number of people on here that say they go there, but no luck yet... I would love to contact a student.

Clinical Experience:
Full semester of interning as a behavioral health case manager and intake specialist. I dealt directly with clients on a daily basis.
Big Brother for Big Brother Big Sister.
Volunteered for a few hospitals, around 50 hours.

LOR- Will be outstanding. One from my clinical supervisor at my case management firm, and two from psychology professors I've had in class and worked with.

As a non-traditional student I am able to address any application weaknesses with extra letters or materials. I am able to get two additional LOR's that will also be excellent and can attest to my interpersonal, academic, and professional skills. I may also include a good writing sample to mitigate the GRE AW score....