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I agree with avflinsch, and I would also add a brainstorming type activity you can do that might help you out... Looking back at your experience with each prof, make a list (sort of like on a resume) of the things you did together AND things that only that professor can speak well about. Then, sort of "assign" each of them an area / set of strengths that complement each other. For example, when I applied to Fulbright I had one recommender talk about my practical experience, one talked about my general academics in the field, and the final one talked mostly about my research capacity. When you ask them for their LOR´s, you can kindly / subtly suggest these different areas. After the recommender as agreed to write a positive LOR, I provide them a packet which includes my resume, personal statement, transcripts, list of schools and their addresses, and a brief cover letter. In that cover letter, say something like, "Based on your supervising my clinical experiences, I’m hoping that you’d feel comfortable including some positive observations from that in the recommendation. It is something I feel only you can comment on, and I think it would help my application.” It is important to keep this open to a suggestion because often time experienced faculty already know what is best to include in an LOR. If you feel comfortable speaking openly with the professor, you can even explain your strategy and get some feedback from them.

Ditto to what SLPOrbust said

I definitely recommend getting it all out there first and then cutting back - 300 words is NOT at a lot. Try to be strategic and include in your SOP what cannot be found elsewhere. For example, if you know a LOR writer is going to mention your research experience, don´t waste space in the SOP. OR, I would say with less than 300 words try to be super brief about the grades - they will see that in your transcript. Focus on what makes you stand out from the crowd, your fit, and your personal story.

I'm always flattered when anyone says that things I say are insightful thanks for the kind words about my blog! As for the timing... I'm not sure. I can tell you what I did. I did my SHS courses through USU - I started with 2 over my first summer, then another the following fall semester. That meant I'd finished the 3 before I submitted my applications (which was required to apply to UNM). I figured at this point, if I got into a program I wouldn't need anymore SHS pre-reqs because they'd be included in the 3 years masters. BUT I knew I'd need Bio and Physics no matter what. So I took Bio this past spring semester. When I found out I was accepted, I got with my advisor and she recommended knocking out physics this summer. My plan if I had not gotten in would have been to take another 2 SHS courses this summer and another 2 in the fall to continue to boost my GPA and application for the second round. I hope I explained that clearly... it's a little confusing. I don't think there is one "right" answer but rather lots of options for each person For you it seems like taking SHS courses to start is a good idea. You might consider if you can get in 1 more SHS course in the fall before applications are due since it will show on your application, and I agree with your thinking that it more strongly demonstrates your interest than a bio class.

Alyspeechie, I just took specific courses that I needed to qualify for 3-year masters programs and I got in (you can see my stats and school below). My plan if I didn´t get in was to keep taking courses until I finished an entire 2nd degree. Unless your GPA is terrible low, I would go for the pre-reqs. It is the shortest and most affordable path.

I took 3 SHS pre-reqs, bio, and physics online - I got into several schools including a top ranked program. So... it might just be true at that school. I have heard though that many grad schools look for and account for grade inflation.

Jolie717 - I'm so happy to hear that you find my blog helpful I really do put a lot of time in it - thanks I'm so flattered for the recommendation On to the original topic...I think there are some paid services that you can use (admissions consultants would be the thing to use). I've got one post on my blog that you might find useful (I'll message you the link - otherwise I can get ban for being spammy). Also, I would suggest finding professors, maybe your university's career center, if you know any practicing SLP's - any of those people would be great to have them review your statement. Obviously I would put more faith in the critique's from professors. You can even look around on your school's website and email some people in the graduate college (in general, not even in SHS specifically) and you might find someone willing to read your SOP.

I have a hellish commute to work. One of the reasons I'm excited for grad school is to get rid of that commute. If you do end up having to commute, I definitely recommend podcasts as a way to keep yourself entertained. This one, http://www.conversationsinspeech.com/, is about all sorts of SLP topics. A lot of it is over my head (I haven't start grad school yet or even finished my leveling coursework), but it is still quite interesting and makes the drive pass quicker. Another idea, if you are the type to record lectures, you can listen to them on the way home!

I think you´re correct that the "bilingual" component is regulated at the state level - if it is regulated at all.

I've not done it, but this is what I'm guessing... You'll definitely lose your deposit. I think to avoid offending anyone, you'll want to call and speak with the professors (which won't be easy) and explain that you accepted in order to secure your spot in their fantastic program, but upon closer reflection you wont' be able to afford it. Explain that you would love their program, but that financially it is not attainable. Explain that you let them know as soon as you could, and apologize sincerely for causing any issues for putting together the cohort. Oh, and I would accept at the school you're going to before doing all of this. Maybe even call that school (the one you're going to enroll in) and explain your situation. Maybe the professors can offer some better advice! It definitely is not an easy situation to be in! Remember though, schools/programs are looking out for their interests at the end of the day and there is no shame in you doing the same for yours (as long as its done ethically and fairly of course).

It sounds like you're in a very difficult situation. I'm not sure if its what you need or what you're looking for but the first two things I thought of are: 1) You need to go back and talk to the program you were asked to leave from. Specifically, try to talk to that professor from clinic. Not with the goal of being readmitted, but with the goal of understanding what went wrong. If you don't, you won't be able to grow nor will you be able to explain it to any future schools which brings me to part 2 2) Absolutely, do not speak disparagingly about that professor, program, experience, etc in your interactions with future schools. It is sort of a "red flag kiss of death." You can (and probably should) talk about it, but do not blame anyone.

Hi Everyone, I'm asking for a favor... I'm putting together a series of blog posts on writing your personal statement (or SOP) for grad school admissions. I'm wondering if people who have already gotten in wouldn't mind sharing parts of their essays with me to publish as examples in the post (anonymously or not). Specifically, I'm looking for examples of how you made the essay stand out, which is one thing essay writers struggle with. Also, I'd be interested in hearing about how you customized the essay for each school you applied to. Any other good advice you have or have been given on writing personal statements would be more than welcome! Feel free to reply here or send me a personal message or even email: michael@thespeechblog.com

I´m not an SLP yet, but I interviewed and talked with many of them before deciding to go to grad school. One thing all of them told me was that it doesn´t matter which school you go to as long as you get your CCC after. The programs are all pretty much the same in order to meet strict licensing requirements. Personally, I don´t think program rankings mean much. What is much more important is 1) financial considerations and 2) your personal fit with the faculty and program. I would seriously think twice about spending an extra $30,000.00 (minimum!) just to be able to say that my school was ranked higher by a fairly subjective ranking system that reflects social prestige more than academic value added.

I think your 3.68 GPA is fine. I got into 3 schools with a 3.52 (including a top-ranked one). I would focus on other aspects of your application (SOP, LOR, GRE, etc).

What a great thread! I´m currently living in Mexico City, and I´m going back in August for my masters in SLP (to a program with a bilingual emphasis). I definitely want to work in the US for a long time to gain experience and such, but I love the idea of working at or even opening a clinic here in Mexico City. I know there is a large demand (in Spanish & English).

Hi Everyone, I found it really confusing to find options for where to take pre-reqs and or a post-bacc program. I´m hoping we can make this a bit easier for people in the future. I´m trying to create a list of schools that offer post-bacc options for SLP students. I created a google sheet here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wnZUc70xiwu00Quks_Q4zm1bHskVxDS2yYgIRgN7m0M/edit#gid=0 And anyone with the link can edit it. I´ve started filling in the info and I´ll keep doing it as I have time. If you all would like to contribute with info that you know or want to look up, that would be awesome! I´ll keep the link posted on my blog and of course I´m hoping that it continue to circulate here on the grad cafe!

I'm in the same situation. I'm thinking I want to do the thesis option precisely because I didn't get much research experience as an undergrad, and I would like to learn more about it. Furthermore, it will help me realize if a PhD might/not be for me. I'm not sure you about your program, but in mine I'll have to take a "Research and Writing in SHS" course to give us a taste of what the thesis option is like. Do you have a course like that to help you decide? I've heard the thesis option is a lot of work that most students don't end up having time for. I have a free summer in my program and I'm hoping I can do my thesis then. Anyways, that's my two cents. I'm interested to hear everyone else's comments!

USU offers a second degree online - but you can basically just take the courses that you´d like.

@onlybattles I contacted anyone I could in the department. Contact information can be hard to come by, so use it when you get it. At the graduate level, the general admissions office won't have much information for you - you really need to be in touch with the department office. Obviously if you're going to contact professors, have clear questions for them. Don't be afraid to contact program directors! They know their program best and will also give you a good sense of how friendly/accessible the faculty are based on their attitude. If you can, at least skim their CV or faculty profile online if available to have an idea of their interest and background/ Email is okay, but try to make a phone call when you can. When calling faculty, always ask if they have the time to speak with you or if they'd prefer that you schedule a call during office hours.

I attended a public university for undergrad and I will be attending a public university for grad school as well. I really believe in public education (sorry to say public so many times). Even if the university´s coursework is not overly religious, I would be concerned with supporting the overall mission and values of the university. I have heard many first-hand accounts for example, from staff members at religious schools that are "encouraged" (read: coerced) to sign documents professing their agreement with stances (against abortion, marriage equality, or other controversial topics). Regardless of how I feel about any of those issues, I don´t think anyone should be asked to sign away their beliefs in exchange for a paycheck. If I were considering attending a religious school, those kind of considerations (while not directly affecting my graduate education) would heavily affect my conscience. I say all this recognizing that their are religious schools that don´t do that; in fact, I´m sitting at my desk inside of a catholic middle school right now. I don´t agree with all of the beliefs of the school or Catholic church, but I am allowed to respectfully disagree without having my job threatened.

I don´t think there would be any formal ramifications. However, there would be consequences. For example, if you paid a deposit or advance on tuition, that would be gone. The real consequences would be in terms of networking or professional relationships. The professors from the school from which you rescind the acceptance may very well know professors at the other school where you´d be accepted. I don´t think they´d be so vengeful so as to call and cause problems, but you never know. More likely is that if they remember your name, they´re going to remember it negatively and that could have an impact later on (conferences, publications, etc). Frankly though, I think honesty and sincerity can overcome a lot of those issues. Professors like working with and helping students. Try calling and speaking with the department director. Explain a bit about your situation (all the while gracefully explaining that you are very interested in their program) and ask about things that could help you make up your mind either way. I hope this helps :/ Sorry you´re in a sticky situation!

Hi! I prepped for about 3 or 4 months for the GRE. I had taken it in 2011 right as I was finishing my undergrad. It was free (a program through my university) and didn´t count for anything so I didn´t really prep. I got a 198. Fast forward five years when I decide to become an SLP and need a great score. I studied hard core using Magoosh and earned a 215. There´s a few posts on my blog (link in my signature) about how I studied, why I used Magoosh, etc. OR feel free to private message me and I can give you some ideas of things to focus on. My biggest is advice is start early, focus on your weaknesses, and be consistent! Apart from that, try to take at least 2 or 3 practice tests. Also, if you use your phone/tablet, get the Magoosh vocab app and learn 10-20 words per day (on the subway, between classes, in the bathroom even!). If you prefer paper, get some vocab cards on Amazon. Good luck

Hi! I´m not the original poster, but I thought I´d throw my 2-cents in... To stand out before you even apply, I´d say you should show genuine and professional interest in the school but also the SLP work that you´ll be doing after. During the visit (or phone call even) be enthusiastic and engaged in what is going. Research any faculty you´ll be meeting with and learn about their interests. Read their publications! That makes a great impression and really demonstrates your interest. Anecdote: I follow some bilingual SLP groups on Facebook (I´m bilingual and only applied to programs with a bilingual emphasis). I participated in some of the discussions and ended up interacting with the director of a top-ranked bilingual program without even knowing it! I made mention of it in my SOP, and I got into that school. I don´t think that single experience made a huge difference, but I do think it spoke to my serious commitment to bilingual populations in SLP. I think thank you notes are a good idea for interviews and visits. Keep them professional & simple yet still thoughtful. Another anecdote, I sent thank you notes after my phone interview, and a friend of mine who is in the program told me she heard two professors chatting about how impressed they were by the notes. Did they accept me into their program because of the thank you notes? Absolutely not. But it was a small professional courtesy that maybe earned a second glance at my SOP. Little things can make all the difference... as long as they´re genuine and professional. Anyways, those are my thoughts Best of luck!