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Okay. Well what about applying to a Masters program? Would that be more efficient? I'd say I'm dedicated, although my GPA doesn't reflect such. I had a few rough patches dealing with serious issues that kept piling up one after another, though, I did not give in. Most of the job positions I have been offered are the data analysis type. Which is kind of alarming...would a year or so in a data analysis position put me more in the running? I'm pretty much on a roller coaster ride on this issue. I have a professor strongly encouraging me and an adviser discouraging me. Others saying apply for the sake of applying so that when I reapply I'll show dedication and maturity.

Although everyone has probably already decided/in mid process of their grad school applications, I'm still wishy washy on actually applying. Since it's December, I'll probably get a lot of replies in the "don't" range, but take me serious for a moment. I'm looking to apply to Clinical Psych PhD, PsyD, programs with a focus on Child Development. Background: Eh I go to a top research university. Psychology and Philosophy major. My GPA is horrible: psych: 2.8 phil: 2.8 overall: 2.9 I don't know my last 60 credit hours, I'm taking probably around 40 in the last year alone to graduate in May. Most likely it'll be above a 3.0, as I haven't received less than a B- this last year. Low GPA due to health/family issues and overall lack of dedication, truth be told. I could have done better, but I decided to wallow in salty tears. Also I've worked full time from day one. Anywho, I have some good extra curricular activities. VP of a club for a year, Lots of work with tutoring children/teenagers. Research in a well known institution for developmental disorders for 6 months. Work as behavioral aide intern for Head Start Program for 6 months - ongoing. Couple of other clubs as well but no leadership roles. LOR: I have a few strong ones from Dean of Student Life, a psych professor, and my Internship Director/supervisor. GRE: taking in January. I'm a good test taker, so I expect to be on the range for all of my schools. Now my main concern is my GPA. obviously I probably need to lower the bar for grad schools to mid to low ranking schools, which isn't really a big deal, but those are still interested in 3.0+ GPAs. I also could explain my low GPA in my personal statement, but I've read to focus more on my strengths than make excuses for my weaknesses. But is it even worth it to apply or should I just wait it out a year or two and gain experience? Financial concerns are an issue. I have little to no money, so I'm applying for fee waivers for all/most applications, but with the price being $50-$100 a piece, it's not worth is if I don't stand a chance. Any success stories/advice?! Thanks.