midnight

Right--I think for some people, it seems unfair or callous to see this sort of thing written out; maybe it is, I don't know. And perhaps if someone is an exemplary candidate with an amazing writing sample who's a perfect fit, none of those other considerations truly matter; however, if there are gatekeepers like the GRE and alma mater rankings, it might be harder for that superb applicant with a so-so GRE from a no-name school to get proper (or any) attention. I'm sure not every top program is unbending about GRE scores or whatever else, but it's just too hard to say without being a fly on the wall when an adcom meets. Some schools seem to value scores quite a lot, especially if you look at stunningly high raw numbers (if you can find them!), but it's important to remember that the applicant pool tends to be rather self-selecting and that those with appealing applications may also just happen to have high GRE scores. (I majored in English and considered pursuing literature studies, but man, it's intimidating. It doesn't help that my undergrad institution is a lower ranked state school that used to be considered a commuter campus.)

I guess that's not too surprising. And isn't the GRE quite often used for funding purposes? Love it or hate it, some of the schools have determined that it's a worthy application component, and that's why it's important to take it seriously even if the test itself is seriously flawed or not an accurate representation of someone's ability. In my field, I think it's kind of refreshing that many of the schools blatantly state, "We expect XXX on the GRE and a GPA of 3.X. Our program is competitive and receives hundreds of applications. You likely won't get in if you don't meet our minima."

I've been a little worried about prereqs as well. I know I will have to take stats and now either physics or chem per the new ASHA requirements, but I really, really hope I don't have to retake biology and psychology (I took them over a decade ago). I haven't actually read anything to suggest that, but I do worry a bit about my prior coursework "expiring." If I have to retake all/most of those non-SLP classes to meet ASHA reqs, I'm likely looking at three solid semesters of work before I even begin my SLP master's studies in earnest, though I guess I may be able to squeeze in the ASHA reqs during the summers or even while/after taking SLP classes. Worry and anxiety and stress, oh my!

Yup, I'm out-of-field and limited by geography, too! I could only apply to programs that offer a three-year track, so that's why my list is incredibly short. I probably should've applied to JMU and GWU as well, but JMU accepts an incredibly small number of out-of-fielders, and GWU is expensive, plus they make you reapply after your leveling year (not quite sure how that works, but it seems a little annoying). I think the fact that I only applied to two competitive programs may come across as cocky or naive, but I'm definitely not either of those things, haha! Please, just let me get in somewhere!

WHAT? That sounds like the beginning of a bad, tasteless joke!

That is phenomenal. Your perseverance and new experiences will really pay off, I'm 100% sure of it. I was toying with the idea of doing an autism post-bacc program here in my hometown. If I don't get in anywhere, I may go for it.

Oh, good for you for going for it again! Did you apply to any of the same schools as last year?

With two interviews lined up and a lot of schools to hear from, I think you're well on your way!

Girl, your stats and experience are awesome, and you rock! I know you won't feel relaxed until you have an acceptance somewhere, and I know I'm probably annoying and repetitive, but I think you need some cheerleading because you are a strong applicant. Don't let this process get you down.

Honestly, me too! Not to sound like a Pollyanna, but I think most of the programs around the country sound pretty great, and I will truly feel grateful to attend either of my programs if I'm lucky enough to get in. I know that from a professional SLP perspective, everyone here will be just fine as long as they get in somewhere, but it's hard when you have your hopes set on a particular place.

^kcald, good luck to you, too! I want all my Grad Cafe homies to go to their first-choice schools.

People with low GPAs--even lower than 1.9--have raised them before. You sound very uncertain about her ability to work hard and earn A's and B's, though, which is why I'm wondering if there's a more serious issue at play here. Also, it's extremely important that she doesn't psych herself out by thinking of upper-level classes as inherently "harder." They are often more specific and in-depth, but they aren't always more difficult. And please tell her not to let one school's opinion of her grades color her perspective, either--there are plenty of programs who would be satisfied or impressed by an upward trend, and her passion for the field and language skills are huge strengths. There are other avenues to becoming an SLP. She could work as an SLP-A for a while to gain experience, or she could hold off on SLP classes as an undergrad and complete a post-bacc SLP leveling program wherein she would be able to focus solely on her SLP work. A good attitude, determination, and a lot of hard work will go a very long way!

I doubt they have notified everyone yet unless they're doing it differently from the last few years--still crossing my fingers for you!

Hi! I hope we hear back from UVA the first week of March--not too long now! I majored in English at GMU.

Katieliz: CONGRATULATIONS ON CHAPEL HILL! I'm so happy for you! Jmarti: Did you hear from them?!

I don't know for certain, but it's probably a good idea to be prepared to answer questions like these: 1. Why are you interested in this field? 2. Why are you interested in this particular school/program? 3. What experience do you have? 4. What kind of settings and populations are you interested in working in/helping? 5. What do you want to focus on in your studies? 6. What can you bring to the field/what are your strengths and special talents? (Your language skills are highly impressive and set you apart!) Good luck!

You've already gotten some great advice, but I want to say that if this person is technically a sophomore, there is plenty of time to improve that GPA! Is this person capable of earning A's and B's, or is there something more dire hindering his or her performance (depression/anxiety, a learning disability, other health or familial issues, etc.?). I mean, only your friend knows for sure what s/he is capable of doing and why his/her performance has been lacking. Also, strong GRE scores, good recommendation letters (another reason GPA is important since these can generally only come from professors in classes a student has done well in), and a solid CV with some experience or volunteer work will help a lot, but that GPA has to improve to be more competitive.

Yes, congrats to you, lovablelauren! You sound like a lovely person, and your CV sounds amazing as well.

Yeah, it didn't really boost my confidence to read the hard facts about Boulder in that other thread, even though I knew it was hypercompetitive when I applied. However, as katieliz mentioned, the UNC phone call acceptances are unusual. I really believe they have to do with funding or other special considerations. I know that doesn't help much, but those acceptances in no way mean you aren't a strong candidate!

I'm thinking positive thoughts for you!

Wow, those are really high acceptance numbers for a competitive "name-brand" program. It's kind of stunning that so many decide to go elsewhere based on financial issues, though I suppose it makes sense. I wonder if NU has any plans (or the ability) to address that in the future.

I have no idea why it's hard to find, and I was the person who started that thread. I clearly see it every time I visit the SLP subforum. Weird!

Thanks for the in-depth info, ESLtoSLP. I certainly don't think anyone here considers herself/himself a shoo-in! Haha. I'm applying as an out-of-field student from the East Coast. I scored 93rd percentile on verbal and 92nd percentile on AW and have a 3.9+ GPA, but I'm not optimistic about numbers alone helping me much. I just hope that my stats mean my application will be fully considered.

100% agreed. I think it's really cool that you're worried about interfering with others' chances, but you should see what offers come in if you're truly interested in all of the programs. You're obviously a strong candidate, and you might end up with an even better package or some bargaining power.

I know! We have at least another month of waiting if the results from past years are any indication. Anyway, I don't know if there are any official stats available online right now, but I do know that Boulder received something like 500 applications last year, possibly the year before as well. It's extremely competitive, which makes the wait all the more fun, right?