SaraFL

I think most MSW programs would probably work with a less than stellar GPA if you have some other good stuff to balance it out, especially if they can see how you have improved. I got in to Florida State's program with a 2.9ish. That was the only school I applied to.

I agree with louise. Less personal, more general.

I have to chuckle a little as I read over these posts from people, most (or all) may be less than awesome in 1 area but are totally awesome in other areas. If it makes you feel any better, I was not a stellar student but did get in to the 1 school I applied to (state school). My abilities are there, but school just hasn't been the main focus for me for personal reasons. Anyway, I had: - barely 3.0 GPA, lots of withdrawals and a couple F's on my transcript - GRE verbal 163ish math 153ish (sorry can't remember exactly) and writing 3 (didn't read up on what they were looking for) - no idea if my references letters were strong or not, 2 of them I had to write myself and they just signed it, I had no idea what the school would consider "strong" or not - a few months volunteering - had just started state social services employment - possibly unique life experiences - me writing a statement explaining circumstances and asking that they overlook my low GPA (begging LOL) About 1-2 weeks after submitting my application, I got my acceptance. There was no feedback on what caused them to accept me so I have no idea. I was super nervous and I'm so glad I'm in and can stop thinking about it. Just remember the state schools will give us the same degree and lead to the same license as the more expensive schools. Also remember your transcript does not define you as a person. Good luck and I hope everyone finds the right fit in schools for them.

Did your professor say WHY it was difficult to get? It doesn't seem like it would be too hard.

Applied and was accepted to Florida State.

I'm very interested in working in the medical field, with seniors, and/or the VA. My school doesn't have a specialization/concentration in any of those though, so hopefully with electives and choosing field experience I can sort of customize one.

I think you should go ahead and try, you might be pleasantly surprised. I was really, really afraid I wouldn't get accepted. I had barely a 3.0 because of various personal circumstances, my GRE verbal was really good but math was average and writing was 3 (I am a fairly strong writer but didn't understand what GRE was looking for/didn't prep or study). I had some volunteer experience and just started a job in social services. I was admitted to a state school, the only one I applied to because I can't afford to move right now. You could get in and that would be great. If you don't get in, yeah it'll suck but at least you'll know what you need to work on before applying next term. Good luck!

Anyone else starting in January or already been in the program? I got my email today!

I don't blame you at all for feeling offended, I think that's only natural after you worked so hard on your statement. I don't know if I would have had the confidence (one of my issues I'm working on) to contact admissions and tell them. I'm really curious how this turns out so I hope you'll update us. I'm also curious how you informed them, how did they take it, etc. Good luck on your application.

Thanks, good to know!

Thanks for the input! Still wondering though will it hurt to not have a specialization?

Great since I'm interested in clinical lol. Thanks for all the input!

Well that sure does give me hope, because I do want training for a job and have no interest at all in research Thanks!

I'm mainly looking at 2 schools for my MSW. The first is in my current city, no need to relocate and tuition is slightly cheaper. They offer a clinical concentration but no specialization (children/family, health, etc.) It's just plain ol' "clinical social work". The second school is several states away, is ultimately where I want to live, but it would be challenging to move now. They offer several different specializations to choose from. Is it going to help or hurt my chances of getting a job after I graduate if I do or do not have a specialization in school?

Hey all, I'm so grateful for this forum, lots of very helpful information. I'm curious about the kind of papers that are required in grad school, specifically in MSW programs. How much, how often, how awful (lol), etc. What can you tell me? That's probably one of the things I dread the most.