WAMC: What Are My Chances

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therapisttobe said:
Hey there! I'm an undergrad student thinking of going to grad school for school psychology. Looking at Yeshiva/Ferkauf's school-clinical child psychology program and Pace's school-clinical child psychology program in particular, but curious about any NASP-approved Ph.D or Psy.D programs. I know how competitive clinical psych Ph.D programs are, and that most people take a year or two off after undergrad to gain more research experience, but I was wondering if anyone knew if it was common for people to go right into school psych doctorate programs right out of college. I'm double-majoring in psychology and women's, gender, and sexuality studies and I have a 3.96 GPA. When I graduate, I will have 6 years of experience working with kids w/special needs, 3 years of experience teaching my own classroom at a religious school, 3 years volunteering at a crisis hotline, 3 years volunteering at a domestic violence shelter. I'm also a TA for a child development psychology class and am in a few honor societies.

I don't have much research experience yet, but do plan to gain some more, so Ph.D programs might not be as appropriate (but the funding is a big plus). Anyway, do people think applying to a school or school-clinical child psychology doctoral program right after college is feasible? I want to go straight to grad school, if possible.

Thanks!
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psychtrauma said:
Sounds like you're well equipped on the experiential side, well done. The high GPA certainly helps and matching that with a solid GRE score you sound like a great pick for most programs. As someone who went through to a clinical psych grad program right out of undergrad (and have many colleagues who have done the same) I'd say it's actually not the "norm" to take a couple years, but it certainly doesn't hurt. The largest prohibitive factor you might face with a clinical program would be the research experience as you mention. If you can get into a lab now, I'd try that and then shoot for what you want. The other nice thing about taking a couple years is it helps you figure out what you want in your career. If you're open to both school psych and a clinical program, it might make sense to wait until you know for sure. It's a long haul to get to the other side and wish you went another route. Best of luck!
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therapisttobe said:
Thank you!! Do you mind my asking where you went to grad school?

I definitely plan to gain more research experience so hopefully that will help.
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therapisttobe said:
Just to add - while research does interest me, I don’t see myself doing it in the long-term. I see myself either working in a school or doing therapy with children/adolescents, so that’s why the combined school-clinical programs really interest me. And I don’t see myself being happy working full-time in a research lab for a year or two after college either. But then again, who knows!
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Mod Note: Will move this thread to the WAMC sticky.
 
therapisttobe said:
I don't have much research experience yet, but do plan to gain some more, so Ph.D programs might not be as appropriate (but the funding is a big plus). Anyway, do people think applying to a school or school-clinical child psychology doctoral program right after college is feasible? I want to go straight to grad school, if possible.
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I had very little research experience and received interviews and offers from several highly competitive school psych and combined school psych/clinical programs. Research experience certainly won't HURT you, but I found they were far more interested in knowing you had defined research interests and that those interests aligned with those of at least one faculty member. My current program regularly admits students who are straight out of undergrad and/or students with relatively little research experience, but you need to be able to demonstrate competency to meet the expectations and demands of the program in other ways (high GPA, GRE scores, etc.).

therapisttobe said:
I see myself either working in a school or doing therapy with children/adolescents, so that’s why the combined school-clinical programs really interest me
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I'd be curious to what draws you to working in schools and to know more about your clinical interests. If you're primarily interested in therapy, school psychologists actually do little to no therapy in many instances. If you're interested in completing therapy in a school setting something like an MSW program with school social work training may be a better fit (and save you some time).
 
Chalupacabra said:
I had very little research experience and received interviews and offers from several highly competitive school psych and combined school psych/clinical programs. Research experience certainly won't HURT you, but I found they were far more interested in knowing you had defined research interests and that those interests aligned with those of at least one faculty member. My current program regularly admits students who are straight out of undergrad and/or students with relatively little research experience, but you need to be able to demonstrate competency to meet the expectations and demands of the program in other ways (high GPA, GRE scores, etc.).



I'd be curious to what draws you to working in schools and to know more about your clinical interests. If you're primarily interested in therapy, school psychologists actually do little to no therapy in many instances. If you're interested in completing therapy in a school setting something like an MSW program with school social work training may be a better fit (and save you some time).
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I am also considering MSW programs! I am drawn to working in schools because of my interest in special education. I felt that school psychology would be a great way of combining my interest in special ed and mental health. I am possibly completing an internship this summer in the field of educational and psychological testing, which I know is a big part of school psych (so if I hate that, I can take school psych off the table). I'm interested in incorporating mindfulness into schools - both in research and practice. Do you mind my asking what program you're in?
 
Chalupacabra said:
I had very little research experience and received interviews and offers from several highly competitive school psych and combined school psych/clinical programs. Research experience certainly won't HURT you, but I found they were far more interested in knowing you had defined research interests and that those interests aligned with those of at least one faculty member. My current program regularly admits students who are straight out of undergrad and/or students with relatively little research experience, but you need to be able to demonstrate competency to meet the expectations and demands of the program in other ways (high GPA, GRE scores, etc.).



I'd be curious to what draws you to working in schools and to know more about your clinical interests. If you're primarily interested in therapy, school psychologists actually do little to no therapy in many instances. If you're interested in completing therapy in a school setting something like an MSW program with school social work training may be a better fit (and save you some time).
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I would definitely second this. As a school psychology doctoral student now, I found that my program did not have a big enough focus on therapy for me. I've sought out experiences for therapy to strengthen my skills but the base coursework/practicum requirements focus more on the role of a school psychologist as an evaluator/ consultant with teachers and parents. If I were to go back and redo my choice of degree, I would consider a combined program (unfortunately, I did not apply to any). However, if you are interested in things like integrating mindfulness curriculum in schools and the special education system school psych is a great field! Ultimately, I love working in schools and am hoping my doctoral degree will give me flexibility going forward.
 
therapisttobe said:
I am also considering MSW programs! I am drawn to working in schools because of my interest in special education. I felt that school psychology would be a great way of combining my interest in special ed and mental health. I am possibly completing an internship this summer in the field of educational and psychological testing, which I know is a big part of school psych (so if I hate that, I can take school psych off the table). I'm interested in incorporating mindfulness into schools - both in research and practice. Do you mind my asking what program you're in?
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I'd recommend looking into counseling psych programs as well. There are some programs that have faculty working in schools doing research on mental health with school aged children. A counseling psych program would offer you more experience in therapy training. School counselors (Master's in counseling) also conduct therapy with students in schools, particularly therapeutic schools, and have a big role in designing programming for social and emotional learning. It's a tough job though. You're usually the only counselor in an entire school.
 
Hi all! I am planning on applying to clinical psychology graduate programs this upcoming fall. I've been trying to figure out what my chances are and there are a lot of conflicting resources. I'm just trying to see realistically how I might stack up. I have a B.A. in psychology and neuroscience. I am also hoping to apply to programs that have an equal emphasis on practice and research rather than a clinical science program.

  1. GPA - 3.84
  2. GRE - Quant 156, Verbal 163, Analytical 5
  3. Research experience - I worked for one social psych lab for one year while in college kind of just doing grunt work and data entry and getting the hang of research. I know my college research experience was not enough so now I am taking 2 gap years gaining experience. I am now working at a clinical research lab working in addictions. I've gained significant experience conducting neuropsychological testing and clinical interviewing (SCID E, SCID A&B, ASI). I did not complete a thesis in undergrad. And I don't currently have posters or publications but I am hoping to have one in the works by the fall.
  4. Clinical experience - I have some experience interning in a neuropsychology practice and hope that some of my clinical interviewing and current patient-oriented research may be okay as experience.
I am considering applying to the following programs (the list is long right now I'm still working on narrowing down schools)
Baylor (PsyD)
Drexel University
Farleigh Dickinson University
Indiana State University (PsyD)
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Northwestern University, Fienberg School of Medicine
Southern Illinois University
UMASS Boston
Suffolk University
UNC Greensboro
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
University of Toledo
UT Knoxville
Depaul

Any advice would be very helpful, thank you!
 
vanderpump said:
Hi all! I am planning on applying to clinical psychology graduate programs this upcoming fall. I've been trying to figure out what my chances are and there are a lot of conflicting resources. I'm just trying to see realistically how I might stack up. I have a B.A. in psychology and neuroscience. I am also hoping to apply to programs that have an equal emphasis on practice and research rather than a clinical science program.

  1. GPA - 3.84
  2. GRE - Quant 156, Verbal 163, Analytical 5
  3. Research experience - I worked for one social psych lab for one year while in college kind of just doing grunt work and data entry and getting the hang of research. I know my college research experience was not enough so now I am taking 2 gap years gaining experience. I am now working at a clinical research lab working in addictions. I've gained significant experience conducting neuropsychological testing and clinical interviewing (SCID E, SCID A&B, ASI). I did not complete a thesis in undergrad. And I don't currently have posters or publications but I am hoping to have one in the works by the fall.
  4. Clinical experience - I have some experience interning in a neuropsychology practice and hope that some of my clinical interviewing and current patient-oriented research may be okay as experience.
I am considering applying to the following programs (the list is long right now I'm still working on narrowing down schools)
Baylor (PsyD)
Drexel University
Farleigh Dickinson University
Indiana State University (PsyD)
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Northwestern University, Fienberg School of Medicine
Southern Illinois University
UMASS Boston
Suffolk University
UNC Greensboro
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
University of Toledo
UT Knoxville
Depaul

Any advice would be very helpful, thank you!
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Your main stats are good (GRE quant could be a little higher, but I am not sure if its worth the retake honestly... if you could get 6+ more points, then yes). However, you will want at least 1-2 accepted, ideally first-author, poster presentations on the docket by the time you apply. Having no publications or presentations will hinder your chances, even at "balanced" programs. (Notably, many clinical science programs also produce clinicians, too, so I wouldn't toss them out.) Getting a publication would be even better, but I am not sure realistically if you can get a meaningful one accepted in 8 months... it's possible if you talk to your boss about this now.
 
vanderpump said:
Hi all! I am planning on applying to clinical psychology graduate programs this upcoming fall. I've been trying to figure out what my chances are and there are a lot of conflicting resources. I'm just trying to see realistically how I might stack up. I have a B.A. in psychology and neuroscience. I am also hoping to apply to programs that have an equal emphasis on practice and research rather than a clinical science program.

  1. GPA - 3.84
  2. GRE - Quant 156, Verbal 163, Analytical 5
  3. Research experience - I worked for one social psych lab for one year while in college kind of just doing grunt work and data entry and getting the hang of research. I know my college research experience was not enough so now I am taking 2 gap years gaining experience. I am now working at a clinical research lab working in addictions. I've gained significant experience conducting neuropsychological testing and clinical interviewing (SCID E, SCID A&B, ASI). I did not complete a thesis in undergrad. And I don't currently have posters or publications but I am hoping to have one in the works by the fall.
  4. Clinical experience - I have some experience interning in a neuropsychology practice and hope that some of my clinical interviewing and current patient-oriented research may be okay as experience.
I am considering applying to the following programs (the list is long right now I'm still working on narrowing down schools)
Baylor (PsyD)
Drexel University
Farleigh Dickinson University
Indiana State University (PsyD)
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Northwestern University, Fienberg School of Medicine
Southern Illinois University
UMASS Boston
Suffolk University
UNC Greensboro
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
University of Toledo
UT Knoxville
Depaul

Any advice would be very helpful, thank you!
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I would echo what he said above (not worth a retake, focus on products like posters). I would expect those from someone after gap years since the point was to demonstrate a more advanced involvement, skill set, etc. The bar is higher in many cases for those with extra time because the thinking is 'they should show it now with time', in my experience. You may also want to consider some in the midwest, or less competitive areas in general, that may be without those. It's not clear what area you want to focus in so it may be that there are some to consider which would be well suited to your needs while also being slightly less competitive
 
So I currently have a bachelors in biology, graduated in 2017, and have a 3.78 GPA. I know there are a few psychology courses i would have to take at the undergraduate level such as developmental, abnormal, research methods, and stats. But I could do those pretty easily.

Main issue for me is I have 0 research experience, not even in biology, and I feel like that really hurts my application for these programs.

So considering that I have a good GPA, will probably do well on the GRE, will take some more psych courses, what do I need to do or can I do to improve my chances to get into a good PhD/PsyD program?

Is it just research? (IN WHICH CASE HOW DO I POSSIBLY GET PSYCH RELATED RESEARCH NOW THAT I AM DONE WITH SCHOOL AND HAVE 0 PRIOR RESEARCH EXPERIENCE????)
Are there psych related jobs that I could realistically get right now?
Any other out of the box ideas?
 
Research experience is recommended but not necessary for a PsyD program, although I’m not sure how much they value it because I did have three independent studies and an honors thesis when I applied to PsyDs. I would take a year off to join a psych research lab and to get a years worth of clinical experience (volunteer for a crisis line, psych tech at a hospital, etc.) which you could do while you’re taking those psych classes so it’s not truly like taking a whole year off. Also keep in mind that it’s not about the reputation of a program but the internship match rate to APA-accredited sites that is important. Hope that helps!
 
psydstudent2020 said:
Research experience is recommended but not necessary for a PsyD program, although I’m not sure how much they value it because I did have three independent studies and an honors thesis when I applied to PsyDs. I would take a year off to join a psych research lab and to get a years worth of clinical experience (volunteer for a crisis line, psych tech at a hospital, etc.) which you could do while you’re taking those psych classes so it’s not truly like taking a whole year off. Also keep in mind that it’s not about the reputation of a program but the internship match rate to APA-accredited sites that is important. Hope that helps!
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Do you have any recommendations to actually join a psych research lab? Especially considering that I have no research experience, or psych experience.
 
If you want to get into a good (university-based w partial or full funding w stipend) you need research experience, similar to PhD programs.

Reputation is quite important, though “ranking” USNWR or similar doesn’t mean much.

Internship match rate post-internship imbalance should be 85-100% for APA-acred. No other match statistic matters besides APA-acred; don’t be fooled by “APPIC member”, etc.
 
Therapist4Chnge said:
If you want to get into a good (university-based w partial or full funding w stipend) you need research experience, similar to PhD programs.

Reputation is quite important, though “ranking” USNWR or similar doesn’t mean much.

Internship match rate post-internship imbalance should be 85-100% for APA-acred. No other match statistic matters besides APA-acred; don’t be fooled by “APPIC member”, etc.
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Any advice on how I could attain research experience in my current situation having already graduated college and having 0 research experience so far? I would imagine it would be difficult to secure research or lab positions w/o having any experience during undergrad, let alone psych research because I am a bio major.
 
hs2013 said:
Any advice on how I could attain research experience in my current situation having already graduated college and having 0 research experience so far? I would imagine it would be difficult to secure research or lab positions w/o having any experience during undergrad, let alone psych research because I am a bio major.
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Are you looking for paid or unpaid research positions? Plenty of research labs would love free labor. I found this especially true in the summer months.
 
I second the above- if you can swing it, volunteering for even just 3 mos can set you up to get a paid position afterwards (either in that lab or elsewhere). Worked for me! Also, in my observation, psych labs seems to like ppl with bio/basic science backgrounds, so your major may be advantageous. @hs2013
 
If you have no research experience, you will need to volunteer for a research lab. Basically find a university or hospital near you, see if there are web pages about research labs there, and see if they have a volunteer application process and/or a lab manager that you can contact. You generally don't need much, or any, experience to volunteer. Once you have a bit of experience, you'll be in a position to either find a paid research assistant position, and/or get involved in more specialized interests. (In my experience, the paid research gigs are where the funding is and not necessarily where your favorite topic is, so many people have to choose between getting paid and getting on their favorite project.)

Another thing you'll need to think about is getting letters of recommendation! So when you do take those psych classes and join a research lab, get involved and ask a lot of questions! Go to the prof's office hours, do rockstar papers. Do not half-ass it just to get the credits.

I think your best bet, if it's available for you, is to find a university near you that has a good psych department, and see if you can take psych classes with some profs that also have research labs. That way you can really forge some good relationships and make the most of your time there. And if at all possible, see if you can present a poster from your research volunteer work.

Even if you just volunteered for one year (without ever finding a paid gig), if you worked closely with one professor in their class/lab, and got a good letter of rec and one poster, you'd be in EXCELLENT shape. And that might be a better route than switching around a lot and never getting to know one lab really well.
 
Unipsychler said:
If you have no research experience, you will need to volunteer for a research lab. Basically find a university or hospital near you, see if there are web pages about research labs there, and see if they have a volunteer application process and/or a lab manager that you can contact. You generally don't need much, or any, experience to volunteer. Once you have a bit of experience, you'll be in a position to either find a paid research assistant position, and/or get involved in more specialized interests. (In my experience, the paid research gigs are where the funding is and not necessarily where your favorite topic is, so many people have to choose between getting paid and getting on their favorite project.)

Another thing you'll need to think about is getting letters of recommendation! So when you do take those psych classes and join a research lab, get involved and ask a lot of questions! Go to the prof's office hours, do rockstar papers. Do not half-ass it just to get the credits.

I think your best bet, if it's available for you, is to find a university near you that has a good psych department, and see if you can take psych classes with some profs that also have research labs. That way you can really forge some good relationships and make the most of your time there. And if at all possible, see if you can present a poster from your research volunteer work.

Even if you just volunteered for one year (without ever finding a paid gig), if you worked closely with one professor in their class/lab, and got a good letter of rec and one poster, you'd be in EXCELLENT shape. And that might be a better route than switching around a lot and never getting to know one lab really well.
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I really appreciate the insight and will definitely look into doing those things!
 
Mod Note: Hi all, now that there have been a few replies, I'm moving this to the WAMC sticky for any further discussion.


hs2013 said:
So I currently have a bachelors in biology, graduated in 2017, and have a 3.78 GPA. I know there are a few psychology courses i would have to take at the undergraduate level such as developmental, abnormal, research methods, and stats. But I could do those pretty easily.

Main issue for me is I have 0 research experience, not even in biology, and I feel like that really hurts my application for these programs.

So considering that I have a good GPA, will probably do well on the GRE, will take some more psych courses, what do I need to do or can I do to improve my chances to get into a good PhD/PsyD program?

Is it just research? (IN WHICH CASE HOW DO I POSSIBLY GET PSYCH RELATED RESEARCH NOW THAT I AM DONE WITH SCHOOL AND HAVE 0 PRIOR RESEARCH EXPERIENCE????)
Are there psych related jobs that I could realistically get right now?
Any other out of the box ideas?
Click to expand...

psydstudent2020 said:
Research experience is recommended but not necessary for a PsyD program, although I’m not sure how much they value it because I did have three independent studies and an honors thesis when I applied to PsyDs. I would take a year off to join a psych research lab and to get a years worth of clinical experience (volunteer for a crisis line, psych tech at a hospital, etc.) which you could do while you’re taking those psych classes so it’s not truly like taking a whole year off. Also keep in mind that it’s not about the reputation of a program but the internship match rate to APA-accredited sites that is important. Hope that helps!
Click to expand...

hs2013 said:
Do you have any recommendations to actually join a psych research lab? Especially considering that I have no research experience, or psych experience.
Click to expand...

Therapist4Chnge said:
If you want to get into a good (university-based w partial or full funding w stipend) you need research experience, similar to PhD programs.

Reputation is quite important, though “ranking” USNWR or similar doesn’t mean much.

Internship match rate post-internship imbalance should be 85-100% for APA-acred. No other match statistic matters besides APA-acred; don’t be fooled by “APPIC member”, etc.
Click to expand...

hs2013 said:
Any advice on how I could attain research experience in my current situation having already graduated college and having 0 research experience so far? I would imagine it would be difficult to secure research or lab positions w/o having any experience during undergrad, let alone psych research because I am a bio major.
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Sanman said:
Are you looking for paid or unpaid research positions? Plenty of research labs would love free labor. I found this especially true in the summer months.
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roryportman said:
I second the above- if you can swing it, volunteering for even just 3 mos can set you up to get a paid position afterwards (either in that lab or elsewhere). Worked for me! Also, in my observation, psych labs seems to like ppl with bio/basic science backgrounds, so your major may be advantageous. @hs2013
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Unipsychler said:
If you have no research experience, you will need to volunteer for a research lab. Basically find a university or hospital near you, see if there are web pages about research labs there, and see if they have a volunteer application process and/or a lab manager that you can contact. You generally don't need much, or any, experience to volunteer. Once you have a bit of experience, you'll be in a position to either find a paid research assistant position, and/or get involved in more specialized interests. (In my experience, the paid research gigs are where the funding is and not necessarily where your favorite topic is, so many people have to choose between getting paid and getting on their favorite project.)

Another thing you'll need to think about is getting letters of recommendation! So when you do take those psych classes and join a research lab, get involved and ask a lot of questions! Go to the prof's office hours, do rockstar papers. Do not half-ass it just to get the credits.

I think your best bet, if it's available for you, is to find a university near you that has a good psych department, and see if you can take psych classes with some profs that also have research labs. That way you can really forge some good relationships and make the most of your time there. And if at all possible, see if you can present a poster from your research volunteer work.

Even if you just volunteered for one year (without ever finding a paid gig), if you worked closely with one professor in their class/lab, and got a good letter of rec and one poster, you'd be in EXCELLENT shape. And that might be a better route than switching around a lot and never getting to know one lab really well.
Click to expand...

hs2013 said:
I really appreciate the insight and will definitely look into doing those things!
Click to expand...
 
Undergrad GPA: 3.06
- Last two years: 3.50
GRE Q: 144; V: 149; W: 4.5
Graduate GPA: 4.00
Research: Currently working on five manuscripts and presenting four different times so far.

I am definitely planning on retaking the GRE (I had not prepared the first time) and taking the GRE subject test since I am not getting my MA in Psychology.

I am really trying to get in somewhere near my boyfriend, who is going to medical school. The schools I am currently looking into are:
- University of Illinois-Chicago
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Rosalind Franklin University
- Northwestern University
- The University of Chicago

I know that these schools are fairly competitive, but some did not have any minimums and besides the GRE, my GPA was fine (especially since they were more concerned with the last two years).

What do you think my best chances are? What can I do (besides retaking the GRE) to better my chances? Thanks in advance!
 
smn011 said:
Undergrad GPA: 3.06
- Last two years: 3.50
GRE Q: 144; V: 149; W: 4.5
Graduate GPA: 4.00
Research: Currently working on five manuscripts and presenting four different times so far.

I am definitely planning on retaking the GRE (I had not prepared the first time) and taking the GRE subject test since I am not getting my MA in Psychology.

I am really trying to get in somewhere near my boyfriend, who is going to medical school. The schools I am currently looking into are:
- University of Illinois-Chicago
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Rosalind Franklin University
- Northwestern University
- The University of Chicago

I know that these schools are fairly competitive, but some did not have any minimums and besides the GRE, my GPA was fine (especially since they were more concerned with the last two years).

What do you think my best chances are? What can I do (besides retaking the GRE) to better my chances? Thanks in advance!
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Are you applying to clinical programs or some other field of psychology? I don't think U of C has a clinical program or any other licensable doctoral programs.

It's not just that these programs themselves are competitive, it's that Chicago is a desirable place to live, so these programs get lots of application by virtue of that. More importantly, geographical desirability/convenience isn't really a good argument to pick a program. Arguably the most important factor, assuming you are otherwise qualified and competitive, is fit. Geography is not a compelling argument to faculty that they should choose you over other applicants who fit better with them and the overall program. Even if this wasn't the case, grad school is long and can be difficult at times, so you don't want to be stuck somewhere doing research in which you are disinterested and don't fit in well with the other people there.
 
psych.meout said:
Are you applying to clinical programs or some other field of psychology? I don't think U of C has a clinical program or any other licensable doctoral programs.

It's not just that these programs themselves are competitive, it's that Chicago is a desirable place to live, so these programs get lots of application by virtue of that. More importantly, geographical desirability/convenience isn't really a good argument to pick a program. Arguably the most important factor, assuming you are otherwise qualified and competitive, is fit. Geography is not a compelling argument to faculty that they should choose you over other applicants who fit better with them and the overall program. Even if this wasn't the case, grad school is long and can be difficult at times, so you don't want to be stuck somewhere doing research in which you are disinterested and don't fit in well with the other people there.
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Well, I have been to Chicago many times and love it there. It's not just for convenience and I would never present it that way to programs. And I was just on U of C's website and it was showing a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I will apply other places - it would just better to be near people I am familiar with, especially when considering we want to start a family, etc. And it is mix of clinical and nonclinical psych programs. Thank you for the input!!
 
smn011 said:
Undergrad GPA: 3.06
- Last two years: 3.50
GRE Q: 144; V: 149; W: 4.5
Graduate GPA: 4.00
Research: Currently working on five manuscripts and presenting four different times so far.

I am definitely planning on retaking the GRE (I had not prepared the first time) and taking the GRE subject test since I am not getting my MA in Psychology.

I am really trying to get in somewhere near my boyfriend, who is going to medical school. The schools I am currently looking into are:
- University of Illinois-Chicago
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Rosalind Franklin University
- Northwestern University
- The University of Chicago

I know that these schools are fairly competitive, but some did not have any minimums and besides the GRE, my GPA was fine (especially since they were more concerned with the last two years).

What do you think my best chances are? What can I do (besides retaking the GRE) to better my chances? Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...

Retaking the GRE is a good start. A combined score of 300 is a bare minimum cutoff -- 310 is a more realistic cutoff to hit. 320 would be competitive for the programs you listed. Unfortunately you would not receive serious consideration for the schools you've listed because of your current score. Your GPA does not disqualify you, but keep in mind that it is well below average for applicants and barely above the bare minimum cutoff (3.0).

Are you first author on any of the projects you have in preparation?

Note that U of Chicago does not have a clinical psychology program. You may be mixing up their clinical psych internship (which is on their website) with an actual graduate program. Use this to search for accredited clinical/counseling programs: APA-Accredited Programs

I'm sensitive to your family & location concerns, however the reality of graduate school in clinical/counseling psychology is you will almost certainly need to relocate at some point (school, internship, post-doc). I would search for programs based on your area of research interest first.

Can you share what your goals are after graduation?
 
Hello all! I'm currently a second-semester sophomore/upcoming junior (Psych major, German/Gender & Sexuality minor) and would like to work on strengthening my application now for graduate school in a couple of years, if I choose that path. I know I'd want to go Ph.D., but as far as the specific field goes, I have no idea.

Current cGPA: 3.66 (Psych: 3.92)
Expected cGPA by end of semester: 3.72
GRE: planning to take in the fall, studying over the summer.

Research/Experiences:
-2 years in Social Psych lab dealing with emotion regulation.
-summer job lined up in an LGBTQ+ Developmental Psych lab, 30 hours a week, likely to continue into the fall/next spring as well. Have discussed working on a poster and being mentored through my own project if everything goes well.
-TA for Social Psych my freshman year.
-potential TA for another Psych course in the fall.

Other mostly meaningless involvements:
-PsiChi member in the fall.
-APA uGrad affiliate.

I'm just interested in my ECs and seeing what I can improve and work on to beef up my experiences. The TA opportunity in the fall would most likely just be for an LoR because the professor (a clinical psychologist) frequently talks to me outside of lecture now and I think that she'd be willing. I know without GRE scores, determining my chances is impossible, but please tear apart the rest of my stats in the meantime. Questions and comments are both welcome.
 
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Azare said:
Hello all! I'm currently a second-semester sophomore/upcoming junior (Psych major, German/Gender & Sexuality minor) and would like to work on strengthening my application now for graduate school in a couple of years, if I choose that path. I know I'd want to go Ph.D., but as far as the specific field goes, I have no idea.

Current cGPA: 3.66 (Psych: 3.92)
Expected cGPA by end of semester: 3.72
GRE: planning to take in the fall, studying over the summer.

Research/Experiences:
-2 years in Social Psych lab dealing with emotion regulation.
-summer job lined up in an LGBTQ+ Developmental Psych lab, 30 hours a week, likely to continue into the fall/next spring as well. Have discussed working on a poster and being mentored through my own project if everything goes well.
-TA for Social Psych my freshman year.
-potential TA for another Psych course in the fall.

Other mostly meaningless involvements:
-PsiChi member in the fall.
-APA uGrad affiliate.

I'm just interested in my ECs and seeing what I can improve and work on to beef up my experiences. The TA opportunity in the fall would most likely just be for an LoR because the professor (a clinical psychologist) frequently talks to me outside of lecture now and I think that she'd be willing. I know without GRE scores, determining my chances is impossible, but please tear apart the rest of my stats in the meantime. Questions and comments are both welcome.
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Without knowing generally what area of psych you want to pursue, it's hard to tell you what your chances are.

What do you want to do? See patients? Be an academic? Work in industry? Asking this might help you clarify and think a bit more of your actual goals.

As of now, your experiences sound good. I would really recommend presenting posters (first author) if you can swing it at a national or international conference in whatever area you want to work in/learn more about. Getting a first or even second author pub is even better if possible.
 
Ok everyone. I need some help.

I have applied to my Clinical Psych PhD 3 times but this is still something I really want to do. What are my chances of getting in if I try again?

Here are my stats:
1. 3.57 undergraduate GPA
2. 3.61 Graduate GPA
3. I have my Master's in Experimental Psychology which involved completing a master's thesis research study.
4. After undergrad, I worked for a year at the Cleveland Clinic as a Research Assistant.
5. Now, post grad-school, I have been working as a year (will be over 1.5 by the time of applications) as a Clinical Research Coordinator, also at the Cleveland Clinic.
6. In graduate school, I worked as a Graduate Research Assistant 2 semesters and a Teaching Assistant 2 semesters. (held other varous positions in undergrad).
7. I have been involved in and/or run around 10 research projects.
8. 5 first-author poster presentations, 2 at national conferences. 1 second author national conference poster.
9. I am not yet published but hopefully will be trying to publish my master's thesis soon.
10.. GRE: 159-V, 150-Q, 4.5-Writing

IF I get my GRE scores up, what are my chances of finally getting in?? I am especially interested in the programs at Case Western Reserve University and Kent State University.
 
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WisNeuro said:
If you are only applying to 2-3 programs, chances are slim. If you apply more broadly and can show good fit with a potential research mentor, chances are pretty good.
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Thank you!
 
agif said:
Ok everyone. I need some help.

I have applied to my Clinical Psych PhD 3 times but this is still something I really want to do. What are my chances of getting in if I try again?

Here are my stats:
1. 3.57 undergraduate GPA
2. 3.61 Graduate GPA
3. I have my Master's in Experimental Psychology which involved completing a master's thesis research study.
4. After undergrad, I worked for a year at the Cleveland Clinic as a Research Assistant.
5. Now, post grad-school, I have been working as a year (will be over 1.5 by the time of applications) as a Clinical Research Coordinator, also at the Cleveland Clinic.
6. In graduate school, I worked as a Graduate Research Assistant 2 semesters and a Teaching Assistant 2 semesters. (held other varous positions in undergrad).
7. I have been involved in and/or run around 10 research projects.
8. 5 first-author poster presentations, 2 at national conferences. 1 second author national conference poster.
9. I am not yet published but hopefully will be trying to publish my master's thesis soon.
10.. GRE: 159-V, 150-Q, 4.5-Writing

IF I get my GRE scores up, what are my chances of finally getting in?? I am especially interested in the programs at Case Western Reserve University and Kent State University.
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How many of your previous applications resulted in interviews? How many programs have you applied to altogether?
 
I kinda of wanted to make my own thread because I have a whole slew of issues right now.

I'm a second semester Junior at Binghamton University and I have about a 3.2 GPA (it is climbing).

Here is my kind of story for why my college life has been really bad: I came in Pre-med mainly because I was pressured into doing so because of my family. Then my father became really ill and died during my second semester of school. First semester I got a 3.5 and the second semester I got 2 C's which got me a 2.5 something (a bit over 3 cumulatively). I lost a lot of my passion to do school work for my Sophomore year since I was doing work on a subject I didn't care for and was relatively sad and my GPA stayed around a 3.1. This year I have change my major and am doing fairly well in Psychology. I really want to go to University of Albany and get a PsychD for child psychology, but I am afraid it is already too late for me to do that. I am active on campus, on the eboard for a club, and am currently trying to get an internship in psychology for next year as well. I wanted to know if it was too late for me for to have a chance to do anything with Child/School psychology, or if I still have a chance.

Thanks for reading this.
 
JacksonJ said:
I kinda of wanted to make my own thread because I have a whole slew of issues right now.

I'm a second semester Junior at Binghamton University and I have about a 3.2 GPA (it is climbing).

Here is my kind of story for why my college life has been really bad: I came in Pre-med mainly because I was pressured into doing so because of my family. Then my father became really ill and died during my second semester of school. First semester I got a 3.5 and the second semester I got 2 C's which got me a 2.5 something (a bit over 3 cumulatively). I lost a lot of my passion to do school work for my Sophomore year since I was doing work on a subject I didn't care for and was relatively sad and my GPA stayed around a 3.1. This year I have change my major and am doing fairly well in Psychology. I really want to go to University of Albany and get a PsychD for child psychology, but I am afraid it is already too late for me to do that. I am active on campus, on the eboard for a club, and am currently trying to get an internship in psychology for next year as well. I wanted to know if it was too late for me for to have a chance to do anything with Child/School psychology, or if I still have a chance.

Thanks for reading this.
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This is the right thread.

A few things:
1. You didn't tell us anything about your research, which is a primary consideration in graduate admissions.
2. I would not rule people out from grad school; however, there may be alternative paths needed in the case of non-competitive portfolios (e.g., lower GRE, lower GPA, no/little research, etc)
3. You are likely underestimating the competitiveness of programs if you are targeting one school where you want to go.
4. Things happen and grades slump at times. Grades in the last 2 semester being extremely high can be a good marker of a change/maturity in application. Many will ask about GPA in the last 2 years as well as overall. A 3.2 will not be a competitive GPA by itself if that is reflective of how you are doing. I would aim much higher as you move forward. Most/many applicants have 3.5-3.9 averages.
 
MamaPhD said:
How many of your previous applications resulted in interviews? How many programs have you applied to altogether?
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0 applications have resulted in interviews and I have applied to 18 programs total
 
agif said:
0 applications have resulted in interviews and I have applied to 18 programs total
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That is problematic. If you have a trusted faculty member somewhere, I would ask if they'd be willing to sit down and look at your application materials and the programs that you are applying to, something seems amiss here. There may be some red flag that you are not aware of.
 
WisNeuro said:
That is problematic. If you have a trusted faculty member somewhere, I would ask if they'd be willing to sit down and look at your application materials and the programs that you are applying to, something seems amiss here. There may be some red flag that you are not aware of.
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I agree, I just can't figure out what it is. My theory is GRE scores and/or late submission of recommendation letters
 
agif said:
Ok everyone. I need some help.

I have applied to my Clinical Psych PhD 3 times but this is still something I really want to do. What are my chances of getting in if I try again?

Here are my stats:
1. 3.57 undergraduate GPA
2. 3.61 Graduate GPA
3. I have my Master's in Experimental Psychology which involved completing a master's thesis research study.
4. After undergrad, I worked for a year at the Cleveland Clinic as a Research Assistant.
5. Now, post grad-school, I have been working as a year (will be over 1.5 by the time of applications) as a Clinical Research Coordinator, also at the Cleveland Clinic.
6. In graduate school, I worked as a Graduate Research Assistant 2 semesters and a Teaching Assistant 2 semesters. (held other varous positions in undergrad).
7. I have been involved in and/or run around 10 research projects.
8. 5 first-author poster presentations, 2 at national conferences. 1 second author national conference poster.
9. I am not yet published but hopefully will be trying to publish my master's thesis soon.
10.. GRE: 159-V, 150-Q, 4.5-Writing

IF I get my GRE scores up, what are my chances of finally getting in?? I am especially interested in the programs at Case Western Reserve University and Kent State University.
Click to expand...
Kent State is extremely competitive, depending on what lab. What is your area of research?

With a masters, part of the difficulty is a raised bar with respect to publication. Posters don't demonstrate the same level of research rigor and so that may be a major barrier as well.
 
Justanothergrad said:
Kent State is extremely competitive, depending on what lab. What is your area of research?

With a masters, part of the difficulty is a raised bar with respect to publication. Posters don't demonstrate the same level of research rigor and so that may be a major barrier as well.
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Depression and anxiety
 
Hi all! I'd appreciate any tips on how I could improve my application.

I just finished my first year of a 2-year Mental Health Counseling MA program at an R1 University(4.0 GPA so far). I graduated summa from a private R1 with a 3.88 GPA and double majors in Psych and Health Policy, and completed a senior thesis with high honors, but never got it published. I have 96th percentile English, 50th percentile math (meh), and a 5.5 Writing score on my GREs. Clinically, I have 6 months of experience working in a children's inpatient unit in undergrad, and will have 9 months internship experience in a Therapeutic After School Program by the time I am done with my masters. I worked as a RA at a top 3 east coast research hospital lab for almost two years after undrrgrad, but was more of an admin/IRB regulatory/lab manager, and didn't get to do hands on research. In my current program, I was involved in a lab but the PI was promoted and so I have to find another one in the department. The upshot is I don't know if I'm going to have any research published or even in manuscript by the time I need to start my PhD applications. Is this a huge hole in my application, as long as I am doing research? Should I wait for the next application cycle after that to see if I can get published first? Thanks for any sage advice.

Edit: my research interest is in culturally competent trauma informed therapy with refugees.
 
Aside from the expense of applications, there isn't really any reason to just wait until next cycle. That said, you should probably try to at least get some poster presentations under your belt while you can to improve your application. I had one presentation and one publication under review at the time of applications (both in Sociology), and I did fine, but I think with a master's degree at an R1, they might expect a little bit more. Are you planning to apply to balanced programs or more research-heavy?
 
rch92 said:
Hi all! I'd appreciate any tips on how I could improve my application.

I just finished my first year of a 2-year Mental Health Counseling MA program at an R1 University(4.0 GPA so far). I graduated summa from a private R1 with a 3.88 GPA and double majors in Psych and Health Policy, and completed a senior thesis with high honors, but never got it published. I have 96th percentile English, 50th percentile math (meh), and a 5.5 Writing score on my GREs. Clinically, I have 6 months of experience working in a children's inpatient unit in undergrad, and will have 9 months internship experience in a Therapeutic After School Program by the time I am done with my masters. I worked as a RA at a top 3 east coast research hospital lab for almost two years after undrrgrad, but was more of an admin/IRB regulatory/lab manager, and didn't get to do hands on research. In my current program, I was involved in a lab but the PI was promoted and so I have to find another one in the department. The upshot is I don't know if I'm going to have any research published or even in manuscript by the time I need to start my PhD applications. Is this a huge hole in my application, as long as I am doing research? Should I wait for the next application cycle after that to see if I can get published first? Thanks for any sage advice.

Edit: my research interest is in culturally competent trauma informed therapy with refugees.
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I would encourage you to go ahead and apply. Think of it as lost future revenue if you could have gotten in and didnt try. Your scores range from decent to great and you arent without experience so may have some success.

You may want to broaden your interest in your application, however, because of the specificity of your interests and likely few labs that do that specifically (e.g., seek out labs that focus on trauma, refugee work, or multicultural considerations in therapy and build your interests into your work and experiences in those areas). This may also help expand options to programs where you are extremely competitive and yet would still get the opportunities you want.
 
Hi, everyone. I would greatly appreciate any sort of feedback or insight for my chances at applying to PhD clinical psychology programs this year.

I'm a genetic counselor with 2+ years of experience. My current position is a counselor/research and protocol coordinator.

Statistics:
UGPA; 3.4 (top 25 research U)
GradGPA (MS): 3.8
GRE: 163 V, 162 Q, 4.5 Writing (I have to retake this summer, though, because it is more than 5 years old)

My undergrad degree is not in psychology, but biology. However, I've taken three psych courses and 3 graduate level statistics and research methods courses.

I just submitted my first first-author manuscript, so that will hopefully be accepted and published (at least online) by the end of the year
3 first-title abstracts at conferences
Currently writing a review article for publication

I like genetic counseling a lot, and I was lucky enough to be taught about different psychotherapeutic orientations and modalities, health psych, etc, but I'm hoping to be able to conduct more independent research and actually practice psychotherapy. Although I feel like I'm able to build meaningful connections with the clients I work with and meet, I know it's not actual psychotherapy.

My goal is to apply to programs that offer or have a focus in clinical health psych (PhD only). I would like to stay in certain geographic regions, so that does limit my chances a bit.

Any insight appreciated, thanks!
 
gene_halpert said:
Hi, everyone. I would greatly appreciate any sort of feedback or insight for my chances at applying to PhD clinical psychology programs this year.

I'm a genetic counselor with 2+ years of experience. My current position is a counselor/research and protocol coordinator.

Statistics:
UGPA; 3.4 (top 25 research U)
GradGPA (MS): 3.8
GRE: 163 V, 162 Q, 4.5 Writing (I have to retake this summer, though, because it is more than 5 years old)

My undergrad degree is not in psychology, but biology. However, I've taken three psych courses and 3 graduate level statistics and research methods courses.

I just submitted my first first-author manuscript, so that will hopefully be accepted and published (at least online) by the end of the year
3 first-title abstracts at conferences
Currently writing a review article for publication

I like genetic counseling a lot, and I was lucky enough to be taught about different psychotherapeutic orientations and modalities, health psych, etc, but I'm hoping to be able to conduct more independent research and actually practice psychotherapy. Although I feel like I'm able to build meaningful connections with the clients I work with and meet, I know it's not actual psychotherapy.

My goal is to apply to programs that offer or have a focus in clinical health psych (PhD only). I would like to stay in certain geographic regions, so that does limit my chances a bit.

Any insight appreciated, thanks!
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Your limited background in psychology could present a challenge. I would look carefully at the admissions requirements for all of the programs that interest you. Even if you meet the minimum coursework requirements, you will need to make a good case that you have sufficient foundational knowledge and know what you're getting into. It's always tricky when people are applying to PhD programs after working in "adjacent" fields such as counseling or social work, though genetic counseling is farther afield than those and that's probably a plus for you.

Are your posters and publications relevant to psychosocial/behavioral topics in some way? Is there a psychologist in your setting who might provide some mentoring or additional research opportunities not available to you now?

You don't necessarily need to specialize at the PhD level, but programs with an emphasis in clinical health psychology can be found here: www.cchptp.org. Note that these do not necessarily overlap with programs that have strong research in behavioral genetics, if that is something that interests you. If you are more interested in working with people with genetic mutations or genetic disorders, clinical health psychology would be a good fit.
 
Thanks for your response, I really appreciate it.

A few posters (what I called “abstracts”) are more medical in nature, but my publications are social/behavioral (patient-provider communication and public attitudes surrounding genetic testing).

My primary interests are coping and adapting to genetic risks and diagnoses, and how those diagnoses are communicated. I’m also broadly interested in less-specialized health areas (e.g general psycho-oncology or cardiology).

Behavioral genetics is certainly interesting. But i suppose I’m more interested in how individuals would utilize that information (e.g. how would people understand or adapt to a polygenic risk score for schizophrenia? How would that change their identity? Etc) rather than actually determining it.

I’m considering taking the psych GRE to give some evidence of broader psychology knowledge, but undecided if that’s necessary. Thanks again!
 
gene_halpert said:
Behavioral genetics is certainly interesting. But i suppose I’m more interested in how individuals would utilize that information (e.g. how would people understand or adapt to a polygenic risk score for schizophrenia? How would that change their identity? Etc) rather than actually determining it.
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Got it. This is definitely interesting and there is plenty of work to be done, especially if you go beyond some of the more heavily researched topics like BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Family relationships are also an interesting area since most of the research focuses on individual-level behaviors.

gene_halpert said:
I’m considering taking the psych GRE to give some evidence of broader psychology knowledge, but undecided if that’s necessary. Thanks again!
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The same thought crossed my mind.

The challenge for you is to demonstrate familiarity with the field sufficient to make the case that a PhD in clinical psychology will meet your specific training needs and career goals. It wouldn't hurt to apply this coming cycle, but in the meantime try to get connected with a psychologist who is doing health-related research. If you could get some more experience in a psychology research setting, that could be a step toward demonstrating your interest and commitment in the field. If there are any psychology conferences coming to your area, could you submit a poster?
 
jthawley said:
Hello all!
I am looking to strengthen my application for graduate school

Background Info.
Double Major: Psychology and Philosophy
Current transfer uGPA: 3.954
GRE: Taking in fall 2019
Graduating: Spring 2020

Experiences/Other Data
-Beginning work (10 hrs/week) this fall continuing into the spring in an Affective Neuroscience and Neureconomics Lab; there is a chance to get my name on a published article (in the Spring it becomes a 490 Independent Research class)
-Independent Philosophy research scheduled for Sp2020; chance of publication
-Two committed letter writers (1 Philos. mentor/professor; 1 Psych. professor/head of lab I will be joining) my aim is to secure a 3rd in the Fall semester
-CITI Program certificate
-A in Exp. Methods, A in Stats/SPSS
-A's in all Psych. classes since transferring
-Leadership Psi Chi member
-Leadership Phi Sigma Tau member (Philos. Honor Society)
-APA uGrad affiliate

Research Interests
-Decision making
-Mindfulness/meditation (Lab project in Sp2020 is focused on mindfulness for clinical anxiety/PTSD populations)
-Emotion regulation

Thank you for considering along with any feedback!
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Academically you're fine. Assuming you do well on the GRE, research experience is your weak spot. Is your philosophy research relevant to your research interests or required for your degree plan? Can you shift some of your effort to do more psychology research?
 
Thank you for the quick response!

The philosophy research is an independent study, I can essentially formulate whatever I want for the course and since it is far enough in advance, get the title of the class to reflect the topic on my transcript rather than "PHILOS490 Independent Research Study."

The PHILOS490 is not required, but would be a better use of the credit hours needed for the major compared to a different topic that isn't at all related to Psych. (I.e. I need the hours, but not specifically that class, but the other classes offered aren't relevant.)

I am currently looking into further research opportunities within the psychology department, as I also feel that that is my weakest spot.

I appreciate your response!
 
Be honest 🙂 I would appreciate it. I am hoping to get some feedback on what I can do to improve my chances of admission into a Phd Program in Clinical Psychology with hopefully a neuropsych track option.


Background Info
BA Human Development 3.5 GPA
MA Counseling Psychology 3.7
EdS School Psychology 3.7
GRE in Fall, currently studying

Experience
2 Years experiences providing therapy, conducing psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments
Various leadership roles at the national and state level related to psychology
collecting research data for neuropsychological test maker
Letters of recc from neuropsychs, clinical psychs, and others
Conference attendance and membership to various psychological associations

Research Interests
Psychological Assessments & Interventions (ASD, TBI, and Emotional Disorders)
Relationships and Post Traumatic Growth

Thanks 🙂
 
studentmamasf said:
Be honest 🙂 I would appreciate it. I am hoping to get some feedback on what I can do to improve my chances of admission into a Phd Program in Clinical Psychology with hopefully a neuropsych track option.


Background Info
BA Human Development 3.5 GPA
MA Counseling Psychology 3.7
EdS School Psychology 3.7
GRE in Fall, currently studying

Experience
2 Years experiences providing therapy, conducing psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments
Various leadership roles at the national and state level related to psychology
collecting research data for neuropsychological test maker
Letters of recc from neuropsychs, clinical psychs, and others
Conference attendance and membership to various psychological associations

Research Interests
Psychological Assessments & Interventions (ASD, TBI, and Emotional Disorders)
Relationships and Post Traumatic Growth

Thanks 🙂
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Were you a psychometrist for the neuropsych assessments, or conducting independently? If the latter, I would downplay that as most of us would see that as a major ethical issue.
 
WisNeuro said:
Were you a psychometrist for the neuropsych assessments, or conducting independently? If the latter, I would downplay that as most of us would see that as a major ethical issue.
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I am neither, I am a school psychologist. I conduct my own tests, score them, and interpret them. I don't think I should downplay that at all.
 
studentmamasf said:
I am neither, I am a school psychologist. I conduct my own tests, score them, and interpret them. I don't think I should downplay that at all.
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One thing you'll want to make sure you address is why this degree will fit your needs and the previous two areas (school and counseling) have not. If I'm looking at your application, I see you bouncing around and that suggests a fairly unclear set of career goals so I would be prone to ask things like when did these interests develop, are they actually real versus written up to apply, etc. Your research output also doesn't stack up well with what I would expect for someone with two masters as I would hope that by this point, publications (not presentations) would be there. This isn't to discourage you, but there are some questions I would have related to if it is worth my time (for lack of a better way to put it) to train you, since I expect you won't be helping me much with research and I'm uncertain about the degree to which this field is the one you actually want to be in.

There is also the point WisNeuro raised.
 
studentmamasf said:
I am neither, I am a school psychologist. I conduct my own tests, score them, and interpret them. I don't think I should downplay that at all.
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Ok, but as Justanothergrad mentioned, what is your fit for a doctoral program if you're already ostensibly doing assessment (hopefully appropriately within the scope of your training and licensure) and therapy? What does the program have to offer you that you don't already do and what can you contribute to it?

Unless you've done more than what you posted, you really don't have much in the way of research experience, which is primarily what doctoral training would have to add to what you already do. It sounds like you collected test data for piloting/standardization/norming/etc. of psychometric instruments, which, while good, isn't really the level of research experience necessary for a doctoral program. What faculty are more looking for is that you're able to synthesize the literature into questions, specific aims, and hypotheses about a gap in the literature, design a study to investigate it, and pursue said study through completion, hopefully to a publication or at least a conference presentation.

Did you present any original research at these conferences you attended?
 
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