What to do if you didn't get into a program with regard to research...

[RejectClinical]

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This year I applied to about 8 clinical/counseling ph.d. programs, got 4 interviews, but didn't receive an offer. I realized that I didn't pick programs with particularly good fits. I was told that I didn't need to retake the GRE and that I had a good GPA. With that said, however, I was told that I didn't have enough research experience (which I completely agree with).

I went to a small liberal arts college that does not possess any kind of psychology lab in which to get lab experience. I did however do 2 research projects (I presented both--one at APS). This obviously is not enough. As a result, I have applied to over 30 research assistant positions in order to get more research experience. I started applying in the beginning of April, but I have not had an offer yet.

What should I do? Do I keep applying? Should I try another way to get research experience? At the moment, I am working with a professor on a project that she is trying to get published. I am out of ideas about what to do for next year.

 

[Wildcat06]

You could try volunteering in a lab (which it sounds like you are already doing). Even better if you can volunteer in a lab that could potentially hire you full time sometime down the line.

How have you been going about finding open RA positions?

 

[futureapppsy2]

If you can't find a paid RAship, maybe you could volunteer and find some kind of "day job," either clinically related or not. I know a few people who are volunteering as RAs after graduating while working jobs, either clinical or nonclinical (i.e., witressing). Good luck and sorry you found yourself in this situation!

 

[PsyStudent925]

Have you looked into RA positions at a local VA Hospital? There is a ton of interesting research going on in such places, and the topics span a much wider range than most people think (and I would also guess there is less competition for the RA positions). I ran an anxiety disorders study at a VA for nearly 2 years, the study was open to both Veterans and outside individuals, and it was a great experience. The pay and leave time were also fantastic. Beware if you're searching the website for specific openings that the job titles are kind of odd. You would probably be looking for "Research Health Science Specialist" or "Psychology Technician." You may have to do some reading of actual postings rather than skimming titles to figure out what suits you. Good luck.