skeener687

Hi! I feel ya! I was wait listed last year and didn't get in, so I am in the same boat. I feel much more prepared this time around. I've been volunteering in the speech department at a rehab hospital, and I have learned so much about the profession beyond what I learned in my coursework. I have a much clearer picture of what I'd like to do as an SLP and what I'm looking for in a grad program. I've also gained other experience that has helped make me more qualified. I've just been trying to stay active in the field and learn as much as I can. I am retaking the GRE, although I think my score last year was good, except for the AW. I have a difficult time writing under time constraints! I was also nervous about my LOR's, so I made it a point to ask professors with whom I took multiple courses. I also brought up papers or projects that I did well on in my classes with them. I definitely feel more confident about my letters this year compared to last year! I feel like I made somewhat of an effort to get to know my professors over the last year, and I have more to show on my resume. I don't think it would be bad to ask your employer or an SLP for a letter, although some schools prefer strictly academic references. Perhaps you could ask the schools? I have heard that question asked at information sessions, so I'm sure they hear it often. When you visit the departments, I would recommend asking questions related to your interests and what they have to offer. I would also recommend researching the schools and asking questions to clarify or learn more about those particular aspects of each program that interest you. I have talked to quite a few people who did not get in the first time they applied, but had success the second time, so we can do it!