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Neuro15

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  1. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to StemCellFan in No Sciences Background — PhD Candidate   
    Do you have any research experience?  The biggest thing any program is going to interested in is whether you have done laboratory/research work before.  So even if you managed to get prerequisite courses out of the way, you need to demonstrate to the admissions committee that you actually enjoy doing research work (either in a wet, bench setting, or dry laboratory work at the computer).
    I have heard of a GRE subject test being at least useful for people who haven't done an undergrad major/minor in a subject.  Though I would also look into biology/chemistry classes at a local college as another option.  I'm not sure of any post-bacc programs for coursework off the top of my head.
    I would definitely consider a masters degree before taking a plunge into a PhD program, in my opinion.
  2. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to TheScienceHoney in No Sciences Background — PhD Candidate   
    Echoing StemCellFan's advice about research experience. Especially since your undergraduate background isn't in the field you want to pursue a PhD in,  it would be really beneficial for you to apply to some internships or entry level technician positions. This way you can also build up your connections within the field, which will be vital for getting recommendation letters. It's not completely unheard of for someone with a different background to get accepted to a bio PhD program, but you'll need to put in some extra work. What connections do you already have? Do you have any friends working at labs or studying biology that you could perhaps shadow for a day? Anyone that could introduce you to a scientist in the field? Search far and wide for research opportunities that could help you get your foot in the door. Research experience is absolutely vital, whether it be wet labs or computational work. 
    It might be beneficial to take the GRE subject test but most universities are moving away from requiring it, or even placing much weight in GRE scores at all. Research experience and recommendation letters are really key here. Why exactly do you want to pursue a PhD in neuroscience? What sparked that interest, and what have you done to nurture it? Do you really have a good grasp on what a career in research entails? These are all questions that admissions committees will want answered in your application. If you have minimal coursework in science, it would also be to your benefit to brush up on chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, statistics, and neuroscience if you can find courses at local community colleges or universities. It's difficult to convince an admissions committee that they should accept you if you don't really even understand the basics of the field. A post-bacc program might also be a good thing to look into, like you mentioned. I know many people who enroll in post-bacc programs to prepare for medical school, but I'm sure it's not unheard of for PhD paths as well.
    A master's program might be something to consider as well, and would 100% make you a better PhD admissions candidate with your present background, but you might run into similar problems with master's admissions committees. Whichever way you go, you should definitely try to play up the strengths you have as a business major - it's unique and probably lends you a different perspective than many applicants will have.
    Tl;dr: It's not too late and you can definitely pursue a PhD if that's what you really want! But it's going to take more than getting good test scores, you'll need significant hands-on research experience in the field you want to go into or a similar field. 
    Good luck!!
  3. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from Beanstian in Dilemma   
    The work you do during your degree will be much more of a factor in your career development than the prestige difference between Columbia and Harvard. Go wherever you will be happier, because happy students make successful ones. 
  4. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from jasbee in 2018 Neuroscience PhD Applicants and Admission Results   
    Typically I address the PI as Dr. X, even if he or she signs off with their first name. If they say something along the lines of “please just call me X” then I’ll switch, but I feel it’s always best to be a bit more formal in emails than to be less and risk coming across as rude. 
  5. Like
    Neuro15 got a reaction from Bio_123 in Interview Prep   
    I'll copy/paste two posts from a recent thread here.
     
    StemCellFan:
    "I'm not sure what the actual statistics are for those places, but I've heard it ranges anywhere from 50% to 80%.  It depends on the program though and the percentage of applicants admitted one year can differ from the next.  Either way, I would go in with confidence and bring your A-game while you're there!
    As far as preparations go, I would look into the research of the people you are interviewing with.  I would peruse a couple recent papers, but don't worry about reading their whole bibliography or anything.  Some of these individuals are going to share your research interests and will come from a list you provided to the program coordinator or are faculty you've indicated an interest in working with when you applied.  Some faculty you meet with could be from the admissions or recruiting committee whose research may differ from what you want to work on.  I would still brush up on what they do and make sure you can have an intelligent conversation with them about your research and theirs.  Be sure to ask questions pertaining to their research; they want to engage in a two-way conversation with you.
    I would make sure you can succinctly and coherently describe your research.  If you have multiple, different research experiences, I would focus on your most current projects but be able to answer questions on past work you've done.
    Also make sure you can answer why you want to do a PhD at those programs specifically, why you want a PhD in general, and what your career goals are.  If you have specific research interests, be sure you're able to communicate those as well.
    Other than that, know yourself.  A lot of these programs will have social events with alcohol.  If you don't drink, this isn't the time to start.  Be personable, be inquisitive, there are resources online for questions to ask graduate students and/or faculty so you can get a feel of the program.
    Also make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.  I've lived in the midwest my whole life and I can tell you that January/February gets really cold and there's salt, snow, and some ice on the ground.  Not so much a problem for California, but it might be chilly in NYC.  I would make sure to bring a warm coat and proper footwear to walk around in.  In general, there will be a lot of walking, so I'd advise against heels (unless you can walk all day in them).
    I hope this helps!  I know this advice as been helpful for me as I'm preparing for my interviews.
    Source: Graduate students/faculty at the university I'm currently working at."
     
    Neuro15:
    "I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM."
     
     
     
    Goodluck!
  6. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to BiomedicalPHD in Interview Prep   
    Nothing impresses us more than if you can give a mini-chalk talk during an interview and do it clearly and concisely. I second the "do not bring handouts" sentiment. I do not personally mind, but I know a few PIs who look on this unfavorably.
  7. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to BabyScientist in Interview Prep   
    This is a good point.
    I think it also detracts from the conversation. You want your interview to be a conversation, not something you had to bring props for. If anything, I would just be ready to draw out the diagram so you can explain it better only if they seem to need the visual.
     
  8. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from StemCellFan in Interview Prep   
    Eh, I personally wouldn’t. IMO bringing a print out of your research appears like a crutch, even if it’s not actually one. 
  9. Like
    Neuro15 got a reaction from Baller123 in Should I interview with a PI I have worked for?   
    You can ask it won’t hurt, especially if that person will write you a favorable evaluation. Some programs won’t let you interview with a faculty member you’ve worked for though (I know mine did not). I wouldn’t necessarily say there’s an expectation to interview with them though. 
  10. Like
    Neuro15 got a reaction from AllieKat in Interview Prep   
    I'll copy/paste two posts from a recent thread here.
     
    StemCellFan:
    "I'm not sure what the actual statistics are for those places, but I've heard it ranges anywhere from 50% to 80%.  It depends on the program though and the percentage of applicants admitted one year can differ from the next.  Either way, I would go in with confidence and bring your A-game while you're there!
    As far as preparations go, I would look into the research of the people you are interviewing with.  I would peruse a couple recent papers, but don't worry about reading their whole bibliography or anything.  Some of these individuals are going to share your research interests and will come from a list you provided to the program coordinator or are faculty you've indicated an interest in working with when you applied.  Some faculty you meet with could be from the admissions or recruiting committee whose research may differ from what you want to work on.  I would still brush up on what they do and make sure you can have an intelligent conversation with them about your research and theirs.  Be sure to ask questions pertaining to their research; they want to engage in a two-way conversation with you.
    I would make sure you can succinctly and coherently describe your research.  If you have multiple, different research experiences, I would focus on your most current projects but be able to answer questions on past work you've done.
    Also make sure you can answer why you want to do a PhD at those programs specifically, why you want a PhD in general, and what your career goals are.  If you have specific research interests, be sure you're able to communicate those as well.
    Other than that, know yourself.  A lot of these programs will have social events with alcohol.  If you don't drink, this isn't the time to start.  Be personable, be inquisitive, there are resources online for questions to ask graduate students and/or faculty so you can get a feel of the program.
    Also make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.  I've lived in the midwest my whole life and I can tell you that January/February gets really cold and there's salt, snow, and some ice on the ground.  Not so much a problem for California, but it might be chilly in NYC.  I would make sure to bring a warm coat and proper footwear to walk around in.  In general, there will be a lot of walking, so I'd advise against heels (unless you can walk all day in them).
    I hope this helps!  I know this advice as been helpful for me as I'm preparing for my interviews.
    Source: Graduate students/faculty at the university I'm currently working at."
     
    Neuro15:
    "I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM."
     
     
     
    Goodluck!
  11. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from SysEvo in 2018 Applicant Profiles and Admissions Results   
    For future’s sake, the Dean is not the person to contact with admissions questions. 
  12. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from ExpandTheBrain in Interview Prep   
    I'll copy/paste two posts from a recent thread here.
     
    StemCellFan:
    "I'm not sure what the actual statistics are for those places, but I've heard it ranges anywhere from 50% to 80%.  It depends on the program though and the percentage of applicants admitted one year can differ from the next.  Either way, I would go in with confidence and bring your A-game while you're there!
    As far as preparations go, I would look into the research of the people you are interviewing with.  I would peruse a couple recent papers, but don't worry about reading their whole bibliography or anything.  Some of these individuals are going to share your research interests and will come from a list you provided to the program coordinator or are faculty you've indicated an interest in working with when you applied.  Some faculty you meet with could be from the admissions or recruiting committee whose research may differ from what you want to work on.  I would still brush up on what they do and make sure you can have an intelligent conversation with them about your research and theirs.  Be sure to ask questions pertaining to their research; they want to engage in a two-way conversation with you.
    I would make sure you can succinctly and coherently describe your research.  If you have multiple, different research experiences, I would focus on your most current projects but be able to answer questions on past work you've done.
    Also make sure you can answer why you want to do a PhD at those programs specifically, why you want a PhD in general, and what your career goals are.  If you have specific research interests, be sure you're able to communicate those as well.
    Other than that, know yourself.  A lot of these programs will have social events with alcohol.  If you don't drink, this isn't the time to start.  Be personable, be inquisitive, there are resources online for questions to ask graduate students and/or faculty so you can get a feel of the program.
    Also make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.  I've lived in the midwest my whole life and I can tell you that January/February gets really cold and there's salt, snow, and some ice on the ground.  Not so much a problem for California, but it might be chilly in NYC.  I would make sure to bring a warm coat and proper footwear to walk around in.  In general, there will be a lot of walking, so I'd advise against heels (unless you can walk all day in them).
    I hope this helps!  I know this advice as been helpful for me as I'm preparing for my interviews.
    Source: Graduate students/faculty at the university I'm currently working at."
     
    Neuro15:
    "I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM."
     
     
     
    Goodluck!
  13. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from bioPhDhopeful in Chances of Acceptance After Being Interviewed   
    This is all great stuff!
    I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM. 
     
     
    As for the post-interview acceptance rate, it depends. A general rule of thumb is that programs tend to accept 1.25--1.50X (maybe 1.75X) the amount of applicants that their class size will be. The class size can vary between year to year and often fluctuates due to the class size before them and the program's financials. There isn't really an accurate percentage that one could point to, because there are a ton of variables and differences between programs. Some programs can admit a class size twice as large as they "want" while other programs would bankrupt themselves if they did that. 
     
  14. Like
    Neuro15 got a reaction from ExpandTheBrain in 2018 Neuroscience PhD Applicants and Admission Results   
    Just wanted to pop in and wish you all the best of luck this app cycle! You’ve all worked so hard to get to this point; try to relax and enjoy your holidays. Interview invites will come!
  15. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from StemCellFan in Chances of Acceptance After Being Interviewed   
    This is all great stuff!
    I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM. 
     
     
    As for the post-interview acceptance rate, it depends. A general rule of thumb is that programs tend to accept 1.25--1.50X (maybe 1.75X) the amount of applicants that their class size will be. The class size can vary between year to year and often fluctuates due to the class size before them and the program's financials. There isn't really an accurate percentage that one could point to, because there are a ton of variables and differences between programs. Some programs can admit a class size twice as large as they "want" while other programs would bankrupt themselves if they did that. 
     
  16. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from jougami in Chances of Acceptance After Being Interviewed   
    This is all great stuff!
    I'll emphasize a few things: 
    1.) Know why you applied to each program. Seems simple, right? But I can guarantee you it's a trickier question than it seems when you go to actually say why (nerves play a role in this). Know your typical POIs, but also the program's general strengths. Out of all the great programs out there ---and there are a ton--- what made this school stand out? Additionally why do you want a PhD? The job market isn't amazing, and academia is a tough life. 
    2.) Know your research inside and out. You will be asked about what you did previously. If you interview with someone familiar with the area of your research you might get asked pretty detailed questions. It's best if you can answer these without appearing flustered or nervous. Knowing your research backwards and forwards really helps with this. 
    3.) PIs are nerds (aren't we all here?). They love to talk about their research. Accordingly, most PIs love it when interviewees ask thoughtful questions about their work. Bonus points if you make the PI think. 
    4.) Be polite and courteous...to everyone! This should go without saying, but it amazes me how people can be impolite to the secretaries or even other students. Assume everything you do will get back to the ADCOM. 
     
     
    As for the post-interview acceptance rate, it depends. A general rule of thumb is that programs tend to accept 1.25--1.50X (maybe 1.75X) the amount of applicants that their class size will be. The class size can vary between year to year and often fluctuates due to the class size before them and the program's financials. There isn't really an accurate percentage that one could point to, because there are a ton of variables and differences between programs. Some programs can admit a class size twice as large as they "want" while other programs would bankrupt themselves if they did that. 
     
  17. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to StemCellFan in Chances of Acceptance After Being Interviewed   
    I'm not sure what the actual statistics are for those places, but I've heard it ranges anywhere from 50% to 80%.  It depends on the program though and the percentage of applicants admitted one year can differ from the next.  Either way, I would go in with confidence and bring your A-game while you're there!
    As far as preparations go, I would look into the research of the people you are interviewing with.  I would peruse a couple recent papers, but don't worry about reading their whole bibliography or anything.  Some of these individuals are going to share your research interests and will come from a list you provided to the program coordinator or are faculty you've indicated an interest in working with when you applied.  Some faculty you meet with could be from the admissions or recruiting committee whose research may differ from what you want to work on.  I would still brush up on what they do and make sure you can have an intelligent conversation with them about your research and theirs.  Be sure to ask questions pertaining to their research; they want to engage in a two-way conversation with you.
    I would make sure you can succinctly and coherently describe your research.  If you have multiple, different research experiences, I would focus on your most current projects but be able to answer questions on past work you've done.
    Also make sure you can answer why you want to do a PhD at those programs specifically, why you want a PhD in general, and what your career goals are.  If you have specific research interests, be sure you're able to communicate those as well.
    Other than that, know yourself.  A lot of these programs will have social events with alcohol.  If you don't drink, this isn't the time to start.  Be personable, be inquisitive, there are resources online for questions to ask graduate students and/or faculty so you can get a feel of the program.
    Also make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.  I've lived in the midwest my whole life and I can tell you that January/February gets really cold and there's salt, snow, and some ice on the ground.  Not so much a problem for California, but it might be chilly in NYC.  I would make sure to bring a warm coat and proper footwear to walk around in.  In general, there will be a lot of walking, so I'd advise against heels (unless you can walk all day in them).
    I hope this helps!  I know this advice as been helpful for me as I'm preparing for my interviews.
    Source: Graduate students/faculty at the university I'm currently working at.
  18. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from PhD_hopeful_ in 2018 Neuroscience PhD Applicants and Admission Results   
    Just wanted to pop in and wish you all the best of luck this app cycle! You’ve all worked so hard to get to this point; try to relax and enjoy your holidays. Interview invites will come!
  19. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from eevee in 2018 Neuroscience PhD Applicants and Admission Results   
    Just wanted to pop in and wish you all the best of luck this app cycle! You’ve all worked so hard to get to this point; try to relax and enjoy your holidays. Interview invites will come!
  20. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from synapticcat in 2018 Neuroscience PhD Applicants and Admission Results   
    Just wanted to pop in and wish you all the best of luck this app cycle! You’ve all worked so hard to get to this point; try to relax and enjoy your holidays. Interview invites will come!
  21. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from catsareme in Laying Down the truth, sorry, not sorry   
    Well thanks for the honesty I suppose. I'm going to be blunt with you, so try to not take offense, but you seem awfully arrogant. Some of your points are valid and I agree with; there are currently too many PhDs being trained. At this rate it's not sustainable, it's simply not. But to say a PhD is not worthwhile unless you stay in academia is silly and myopic, and should someone choose industry over academia that does not make them any less of a scientist. Many PhDs are choosing industry and alternative careers simply because they find academia is not an attractive option. Being on an entirely soft money salary fighting tooth and nail for grants in order to feed your family isn't exactly everyone's idea of a stable career, and if you can't see that then perhaps you should reflect on the current climate of academia a bit more. You know what percentage of PhD graduates end up in tenure track positions? It's low. While academia was once the default path, it's quickly becoming just the opposite and schools are changing to reflect that. 
    You are exactly the the type of person I am looking to avoid for rotations. I hope during the course of your training you take off your blinders, because your narrow mindedness is something that is not a great character trait. 
  22. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from Some violinist in 2018 Applicant Profiles and Admissions Results   
    Wow OSU wastes no time lol. Congrats! 
     
    And congrats to all who are done with their apps! Now sit back and try to relax!
  23. Upvote
    Neuro15 got a reaction from ChallengerSwimmer23 in 2018 Applicant Profiles and Admissions Results   
    Wow OSU wastes no time lol. Congrats! 
     
    And congrats to all who are done with their apps! Now sit back and try to relax!
  24. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to TakeruK in average admitted applicant to a top tier program   
    I agree with @Eigen. Especially at top schools, there are huge variations in the background of students. Some people have years of experience and some people have none. Some people have top GRE scores and others have 50th percentile. In my field, I do think GPA is an actual factor at the top schools though, since physics/astro/planetary is a field where you really do need a strong undergrad foundation. So I think most students at the school I went to had at least 3.5 GPA. This doesn't mean that there aren't people with lower GPAs that still get in because of other merits though. 
    Also, at least at the program I was at, I get the sense that top tier schools actually are more willing and more able to take more "risks" in accepting students. I got the sense that my program accepted students based on potential more than standard achievement metrics such as GPA, GRE, amount of experience etc. Every prof there had plenty of funding for students, it's not like they can only take one every few years and therefore have to be very selective to ensure they get a return on investment. 
    So, my advice for top schools is to figure out what they want and show them you've got it. Showing a great fit into their research program is very very important.
  25. Upvote
    Neuro15 reacted to Eigen in average admitted applicant to a top tier program   
    There really is no average student- or rather, you can average things out but you get a useless answer. 
    It mostly comes down to fit- can you convince them that you'll be successful in an area in which they need success, and that you will be more successful than everyone else applying in that area. 
    There's no helpful or useful way to boil that down to averages. In my program we had people with 4.0s and sub 3.0 undergrad GPAs, but averaging it to 3.5 is pretty worthless. 
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