Emotix

Percentiles matter more than raw scores, but as a rule of thumb 160Q and 160V is often a cut off. Average admitted scores are usually around 165 each.

The mental health work experience isn't directly relevant to an I/O program, so I wouldn't emphasize it in a personal statement unless it somehow links to what you want to do with this degree. GREs and GPA are often used as the "gateway" to consideration, meaning that they won't guarantee you an admit, but they can keep you out. However, no one here can definitively say that you do or do not have a chance. The only way to know is to apply and gear your application toward your strengths for I/O. And don't cut down others for having less experience - its your fit and potential for a program that will have the greatest impact.

Has anyone heard from UMass Amherst?

Thank you for the info!

Has anyone heard from Penn State, Boston College, or UMass Amherst for social psych? I know Penn State did some phone screens, but anything about interview weekend?

I also applied to 13 programs, 7 OB and 6 in social and I/O psychology. I had a phone interview for a social psych program, and a new faculty member at one of my OB programs connected with me on LinkedIn so I assume they've at least been looking at profiles, but haven't heard anything otherwise in terms of on-campus interviews or offers. Looking at the results page, most seem to come out in late January or early February, so I'm trying not to worry too much just yet.

I find that cheaper clothing tends to run bigger. I think designer brands (doesn't need to be the super expensive ones) will probably run a bit smaller and fit better for you. Petite might work, but you can also look in the juniors sections of big box stores. Sometimes I will opt for juniors dress pants since the regular women's sizes often don't fit me right. The juniors blazers might fit better too, and you can't tell the difference unless you get something with lace/zippers/embellishments.

One of my programs had me submit the application first, then sent me a link to upload additional materials. If you can get your application submitted soon I would do so and see what email prompt you get. Then, if you're not prompted to submit anywhere, email someone, or send attachments to the adcomm.

Are there still any active OB/Management applicants on here? I haven't seen any sign of interviews at any of my schools. I'm wondering if most people are in the same boat, or if results just aren't being posted.

I think those shoes would be fine. Like another poster mentioned, a blazer might not be necessary, but wouldn't cost you any "points." As long as you feel comfortable in what you're wearing, it should be fine.

I'm not sure if this is relevant for you, but if you've been out of school a few years they may question you about that. I was asked, "Why the PhD? Why now? Are you sure you're ready to leave work and go back to school?" I was also asked a lot about my specific research interests to determine my fit for their lab. My phone interview was very casual, not at all set up like a structured interview.

I think those tops are fine for the other events during an interview weekend, but might be a bit too casual for the actual interview itself. You could try to find something similar that has a collar and/or is a button down blouse, or something that looks nice tucked in a bit so it isn't so flowy/casual-looking. Of course, these are just my opinions, but below are some styles that I think would work well without a suit jacket that are similar to what you have above.

I just had my first phone interview at one of my top programs. Hoping to hear some more good news in the next few weeks. Good luck to everyone!

If your MSc is in a different area than your PhD, you may need to include a section in your personal statement as to why you're changing gears, or how you plan to use your experience and training from the MSc to achieve your goals with the PhD. Otherwise, depending how different the research areas are, you may raise some eyebrows. I've always had the impression that unrelated research experience is still helpful, though relevant research experience is ideal. Some POIs might prefer students straight from undergrad for any number of reasons, but that's a matter of personal preference and I don't think you'll see an entire department adverse to those with advanced degrees. Nor do I think it'd be a deal breaker if you can explain a logical path from undergrad to your MSc, to the PhD. That being said, I'd be a bit concerned to have a POI who wants me to do things their way, and only their way (to come in with no prior experience or preconceived notions). Research is often collaborative - most professors regularly publish with peers, conduct studies with other institutions, and have networks all over the world, so receiving training from another program or advisor shouldn't matter much to them. I think the concern about a masters degree might come from the fact that many are practitioner-focused, not research-focused (although there are plenty of research masters available), and it may show some uncertainty among candidates - did they do the MS first because they weren't sure about research? Or they didn't perform well in undergrad? Or are they prolonging their education for some other reason? Of course, there are perfectly valid reasons for pursuing a masters first; but generally, if you want a PhD, it makes more sense to go directly into the PhD. If you tried for the PhD and found that you needed to strengthen your profile, then a masters degree seems appropriate.

That's awesome, congratulations! Sounds like you will be part of a really supportive department.