vallaboop

It is a bummer but I think if you tell them how passionate you are then I'm sure they would be more than happy to write you another rec (or reuse the same one). Don't let that part hold you back!

I think that if your research interests are still in line with the POIs at the programs you already applied to there shouldn't be a problem reapplying. For a lot of people it's really difficult to get into a PhD program right after college. Getting more experience and showing you can excel in a master's program is really helpful (that's what I'm currently doing as well, I just finished my first year of my master's). It's a little hard to answer your second question because I don't know which school you are going to be attending for your master's and what their program is like. It would probably be easiest to do your qualifying exams to become a PhD candidate at the school you will already be attending. But again, I'm unsure how the school your attending works.

Your response was very helpful, thank you! This makes me feel better. I will try not to be so narrow in my search, that is really great advice! As for the statement of purpose, I've put this in the back of my mind and almost forgot about it. I should start working on these ASAP. I agree with you on the personal background. I think if it's relevant and helps explain how you got to where you are and what has happened along the way then I think it would be beneficial. At least, I hope. Thanks again!

Hi Katzenklavier, It's really tough to say. PhD programs are extremely difficult and each program is unique. If you do well in the OT program, this will show that you can do well in graduate school. Having neuro research is definitely a plus. Is this a specific facet of neuroscience you're interested? For example, I'm interested in behavioral neuroscience and researching serious mental illness and neurodegenerative diseases. I've been garnering research experience within the field of psychiatric research and I am currently in a masters program for clinical psychology to help with my chances of getting accepted into a behavioral neuro program. If you believe that the OT program you are in has a strong enough science core for what you are interested in pursuing than this might be helpful. If you do not think that this will strengthen your chances of getting into a neuro PhD program than I strongly recommend sitting down and thinking about what you truly want to do. A science PhD program is not for the faint of heart so you should not make your decision lightly. In addition, I recommend getting a GRE quant book and studying up to retake the GRE. Hope this helps!

Apply 2017 to start Fall 2018

Thanks for your response! Thank was nice of you! My bosses all know I am applying to PhD programs in the fall so I will most likely be leaving my position. I believe they will be open to writing me letter of recommendations, at least I hope. One of them did for my Masters program but that is in state and close enough so I can still work full time (well mostly). What programs have you looked into so far?

Gotcha. Have you applied in the past? I'm looking at SUNY Albany, SUNY Buffalo, SUNY Binghamton, OSHU, Washington State, Colorado State, UMass Amherst, BU, BC, Dartmouth (possibly), University of British Columbia, UC Davis, and a few others. I have to really narrow down my list, especially since there is no way I can afford to apply to all of these..

What schools are you looking at for biopsych?

How much does it cost?

I recommend studying like crazy for the GRE and if you can afford it, to take a prep course. I spent an entire summer studying and I did pretty well. Unfortunately, I have to retake them because it will have been 5 years by the time I apply to PhD programs. So I'm back in the same boat you are!

Anyone else already freaking out about applying to PhD programs Fall 2018? I thought I might start a thread for us all to due a little venting and give each other advice. Let's all start by introducing ourselves! Program of interest: Behavioral Neuroscience Schools you have looked at: I feel like I've looked at almost every school that has a behavioral neuroscience program. I'm interested in programs in Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Massachusetts Number one worry about applying: My GPA was on the low side after finishing my undergrad and I had a lack of research experience. I've been trying to make up for that by working as a research assistant and getting my masters but I'm worried that won't be enough...

Hi all, As many of you have gone through the same, I am hoping for a little guidance. I am hoping to apply to a PhD program for behavioral neuroscience in the fall. I am extremely worried about my chances and I am wondering what I can do (if anything) to boost my chances of getting accepted. I graduated from Syracuse University in 2012 with a BS in psychology and neuroscience (GPA 3.0..ouch). I attended an MS program for Neuroscience (GPA 3.8) but had to leave after a semester due to personal reasons. I am currently in a Ms program for clinical psychology (GPA 4.0) and I am a research assistant for Dartmouth-Hitchcock (previously Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, employed 1.5 years). I have extensive experience with SPSS, I have experience conducting research assessments, have helped in writing papers (not currently published), conducted lit searches, administrative duties, etc. I am a graduate student affiliate for the APA and I am hoping to be a member of Psi Chi shortly. Does anyone have any thoughts or advice? I would greatly appreciate it!!

Hi all, As many of you have gone through the same, I am hoping for a little guidance. I am hoping to apply to a PhD program for behavioral neuroscience in the fall. I am extremely worried about my chances and I am wondering what I can do (if anything) to boost my chances of getting accepted. I graduated from Syracuse University in 2012 with a BS in psychology and neuroscience (GPA 3.0..ouch). I attended an MS program for Neuroscience (GPA 3.8) but had to leave after a semester due to personal reasons. I am currently in a Ms program for clinical psychology (GPA 4.0) and I am a research assistant for Dartmouth-Hitchcock (previously Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, employed 1.5 years). I have extensive experience with SPSS, I have experience conducting research assessments, have helped in writing papers (not currently published), conducted lit searches, administrative duties, etc. I am a graduate student affiliate for the APA and I am hoping to be a member of Psi Chi shortly. Does anyone have any thoughts or advice? I would greatly appreciate it!!