Waiting272
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Posts posted by Waiting272
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I graduated when I was 22 and applied shortly after turning 24! I'll be starting the program when I'm 25. The two gap years between graduating undergrad and applying was a great learning experience (also a great breather from school ahah), and really confirmed for me that 1) this is really what I want to do/am passionate about and 2) I am firmly committed to the idea of going back for grad school.
You got this OP!!
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2 minutes ago, NogitsuneX said:
Thank you for your advice, @Waiting272 ! Would you say that I can approach this subject openly (i.e., stating that I will be applying for Ph.D. the next cycle and in need for an additional letter of recommendation), or should I go about it in a round-about way (i.e., vaguely mentioning that I will be applying next Fall and not push it further)? It may be a bit of a cultural thing as well, not sure how U.S. students and advisors respond to direct conversations.
Not a problem! I'm not sure if you have already accepted the position or if you are still considering other places. If you have accepted to work there with the student, I think it's fair to say they already want you to be in the lab! Thus, it might be easier to ask to meet with the student and mention you hope to have opportunities to bolster your application in the upcoming cycle, where you are in the process, and then maybe ask if they have any suggestions for who to get the final LOR. This way it's not super direct, but enough info that they know where you're going.
If you're not a part of the lab yet and are interviewing for it, then I think this is also a great situation because they may likely ask you why you want to job this lab/this project. You can mention your interests and also your future plans. When it comes time for questions, you can mention what you seek from the lab and what opportunities there are to get an LOR/what is the process for going about that in this particular lab.
Hope this helps!
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18 minutes ago, NogitsuneX said:
Should I mention to this student that I am ultimately looking for LOR during next application cycle, or should I start the project and hope that I'll be able to secure a LOR with the student's supervisor next Fall?
That's awesome that you will get to work on a cool project! My suggestion would be to mention your intentions of applying next cycle before you join the PhD student for several different reasons. As you mentioned, LORs from PhD students are not revered as highly as those coming from a faculty. With this in mind, you can probably ask further or whether there's any opportunity to work closely with the supervisor/advisors while on the project in hopes to get an LOR from them. Another thing to consider is maybe they can recommend you to work with other faculty who are within the same department while you work with the student.
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14 hours ago, PsyDGrad90 said:
To be perfectly honest, have you thought about strengthening your app and reapplying next year? From the sound of it, you aren't thrilled with either program as a whole or the research fit of any faculty. The way you describe both seems like settling. I, personally, would consider the possibility of rejecting both offers and trying again next year for programs that have a better research fit. A year delay is better than 5 years feeling miserable or even "meh" about a program.
13 hours ago, Psyhopeful said:I agree, but mainly because if you apply again hopefully you can get a funded program. 80-90k in student loans is essentially debt for life.
14 hours ago, PsyDGrad90 said:To be perfectly honest, have you thought about strengthening your app and reapplying next year? From the sound of it, you aren't thrilled with either program as a whole or the research fit of any faculty. The way you describe both seems like settling. I, personally, would consider the possibility of rejecting both offers and trying again next year for programs that have a better research fit. A year delay is better than 5 years feeling miserable or even "meh" about a program.
To all of the above, I totally agree. I do feel like I'm settling if I went for one of the two - my top choice did not end up getting funding this year and thus can't admit me. Pretty bummed about it knowing that it's so close but just not close enough. On the other hand, I don't know for sure whether I can strengthen my apps enough in time for the next cycle because of my current position/lab (not many opportunities to contribute to pubs/posters/etc). I can leave, start elsewhere for 2 years and come back to try again but I feel scared and hesitant to do that. ?
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Really hope that someone out in this online community can give some guidance. Maybe writing this out will help me with my decision too - I don't want to hold two offers!!! If anyone has any suggestions/advice I greatly appreciated. Just to give some background, I would like to be a program with a good balance between research and clinical experience.
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School A: generalist model, faculty match after you join the program
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Pros:
- There are 2 POIs that I can see myself wanting to work with (pretty good research fit), I have had steady contact with already
- On the east coast not too too far from my hometown and 15 min drive from a big city
- Seems like decent opportunities for externships and conference presence
- Students seem to like the clinical experience they get out of the program
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Cons:
- Partial funding - looking at about 80k+ in loans
- Not a heavy research emphasis, though it seems like it's what you make of it
- Possibility that you won't get assigned to your first choice lab --- this REALLY concerns me
- Did not get to see the psychological center that students get training at like most other schools, makes me concerned that I don't know what I am signing up for
- There seems to be a lack of enthusiasm/support from the program for students, but this is just based on my 3 hour visit there
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Pros:
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School B: faculty match model from the start
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Pros:
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POI is very research oriented, which was what I sought for when I first applied
- balances out with the clinical focus of the program
- The sense of community on campus was stronger, seemed like more resources available to students (at least undergrad)
- DCT seemed to support students through and through and is very well organized
- Got to see the psychological center - seemed well equipped for training students/supervision
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POI is very research oriented, which was what I sought for when I first applied
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Cons:
- Area of interest is not a super good fit
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Partial funding - looking at about 90k+ in loans
- Not a heavy research emphasis for the program overall, but PI is very research focused
- Very high cost of living in the area, will likely need loans to cover cost of living
- Not a convenient location to move to, transportation by car or train is going to be relatively difficult
- Ranks lower than school A
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Pros:
Any thoughts?
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School A: generalist model, faculty match after you join the program
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12 hours ago, Mel29 said:
Hello everyone!
I am a recent alumni since I just graduated with my Bachelor's in Psychology and looking into PhD Clinical Psychology programs. The universities I've selected to apply are: Northwestern University, University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, Fordham University, Stony Brook, Pennsylvania State University, University at Buffalo, and UCLA.
I graduated with a GPA of 3.91 and I have extensive clinical experience since I have been involved for two consecutive semesters in treatment programs and evaluating/administering assessments on the population I want to do research on, which is children with ADHD. I have not taken the GRE yet, but plan to do so in September so I have enough time to prepare for it. However, as for research experience, I am currently on almost my 2nd year as a research assistant that I have been part of for 4 different labs, but have only been able to contribute to 1 poster where I was not leading it, which is my weak point.
Opinions? Comments? Suggestions?
For those that were accepted and/or offered an interview at any university I have mentioned please comment here or DM me! I could really help some guidance in this process.
Definitely try to broaden the range of schools you're applying like the person above suggested. I made the mistake of going for too many R1 university programs and not enough R2 or R3 ones. Nothing wrong with shooting for the competitive ones but you might be pleasantly surprised by programs that you haven't considered before.
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2 hours ago, Mickey26 said:
NEVER contact the POI--it might jeopardize your chances/it might be uncomfortable for the POI. Always contact the program admin/coordinator.
Thanks for the advice! I was on the fence because it seems like a lot of people reached out to their POIs. I'll just wait a little longer before contacting the admin.
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When reaching out to schools 3 weeks post-interview to inquire about status, is it better to email the POI or call the program admin?
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Any one got news from TC Columbia for clinical psychology post interview? The initial invite letter said 3/1.
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13 hours ago, mjuniper42 said:
Hi,
I am hoping to get some advice/opinions on two clinical psychology PsyD programs that I'm trying to choose between.
Option A: Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. From what I've read, they seem to have a bit of a crappy reputation, which is worrisome. Their APA internship match rate is 88%, with a licensure rate of 85%. The school is in my ideal location, and I know that I'd be happy living there based on my hobbies/lifestyle/proximity to loved ones.
Option B: LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I know that this school has a great reputation, isn't newer like Midwestern, has a match rate of 92%, and a licensure rate of 93%. There is no question that LaSalle would provide a better education than Midwestern would. I know that my quality of life would be a lot worse if I chose Philadelphia for numerous reasons (no access to lots of outdoorsy stuff, I don't like big cities like Philly, etc.)
Based on my financial situation, the two schools are equivalent in that regard so the tuition/funding don't play a role in my decision.
I'm unsure of how much weight to put on quality of life vs quality of education, and I'm also unsure if Midwestern is truly THAT bad if they have a match rate of 88%. I got a better feel from the environment at Midwestern, but besides that, I'm lost. Everything I've read here and on the Student Doctor Network seems to be in reference to the Downer's Grove campus, not the Glendale one.
I will be completely honest that I may be biased: I lived in Philly my whole life so far and have great love for the city!!! Feel free to PM me if you want to hear more about living in the area as you make your decision. I went to high school right next to LaSalle so I am very familiar with the area.
The area that LaSalle is located in is definitely more residential (and a lot more quiet compared to center city). Lots of opportunities to do outdoorsy stuff like the huge stretch of land/park by Kelly Drive, the trail by the Schuylkill, etc. There are also plenty of events going on in the city so if you ever want to get out and do something it's one train ride away. Commute is super convenient by public transportation.
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For those who got acceptances to AU, are you planning to take it? Just wondering about whether funding will flow to other labs!
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3 minutes ago, Waitlistedbuthopeful said:
Congratulations, I'm so excited for you!
I can see how that is a tricky situation. A friend of mine who is currently in the program there shared some information with me that I found very helpful as I was considering whether to apply to their forensic track (ultimately I did not apply) - I'll PM you.
Do you mind PMing me too?? I'm also in a similar situation! Much appreciated
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I keep refresing the results page on TGC and my email every 5 minutes to see there are any updates from schools post-interview. I dare say this is the worst part of the application process. Somebody. Please. Help.
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On 2/22/2019 at 4:01 PM, rainydaychai said:
Hey guys, so again I find myself in a tough situation and would love some thoughts and advice. I have now received one acceptance!
However, there are now a LOT of pros and cons to consider. Most significantly, it's the only program I applied to that isn't funded, and tuition looks to be $18k a year. For me, that's not just "manageable with some extra RA hours," that's "going into debt" type money. Secondly, the research fit doesn't quite align as well as other programs (isn't bad though), and the program follows a generalist model, while I would much rather be in a POI's lab with a strong relationship with them from day one. However, it's not all bad! The program does have a formal forensic track, which is really important to me, and they do seem to have a prominent research presence at conferences etc. It's in a beautiful (albeit expensive) area that my SO could easily work in. From what I gained during the phone interview, there are opportunities to pay tuition off from teaching at community colleges nearby.
With all this being said, and while the lure of being able to say, for sure, that I am starting my PhD this fall is strong, I can't help but worry that a year or two in the future I will be wistfully looking at other people in less generalist, funded programs while going further into debt myself.... thoughts? Anyone else in this situation?
I am in the same boat as you with the same program! Financial concerns are weighing in heavily for me. On top of loans for tuition, it seems like it is an area where it would be beneficial to have a car for commute. I have traveled by public transportation my entire life, so this is another piece of financial concern. In terms of research, I thought that I would be happy in a clinically focused program when I first started applying. This is no longer the case, thus, I am also concerned about lack of immediate mentorship from a faculty upon starting a program.
I'm over the moon for getting accepted!!! But for now, I am holding onto this this one offer until I head back from all other schools I interviewed at.
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I was told by a POI that he is on the lower end of the list of faculty to get funding this year. So if the class fills up with students for other faculty first, he is unlikely going to take anyone this year. Any tips about how to go about this/process this? Thanks in advance!
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2 minutes ago, Waitlistedbuthopeful said:
Has anyone listened to interesting/binge-worthy podcasts recently? Radiolab is one of my go-to's but it's been a little dull lately....
Have you listened to the series 'S-Town'? It is AMAZING imo, highly recommend. It's one of those podcasts that you sign yourself up for, don't really know what to expect, and get blown away by how raw the story is.
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37 minutes ago, philopsych said:
I'm waiting with ya! That PhD acceptance was in a different field. Now I'm making the move into clinical psychology. I had an interview today, but they told me they had no idea when admissions decisions are going to be made ah!
May the stars align for all of us!
I look back fondly at how undergraduate admissions for college was much more predictable.
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7 minutes ago, philopsych said:
I think you're joking, but I'll give a serious answer: I got my PhD acceptance on April 15th...so hold on to the hope.
Kudos to you (and also congrats!!!) -- I was not entirely joking, though I do wish this does not have to be the case. Just expressing the agony of waiting!
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How true is the saying "It's not really over until it's over (aka, April 15th)"? LOL
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To the poster on the results page for American University clinical psychology acceptance - if you by chance stumble across this post, do you mind PM'ing me your POI?? Thanks!
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Hi! I will be interviewing at Hofstra in a couple weeks and was wondering if anyone on here is in or is familiar with the program. I was really excited to apply and get an interview, but am now worried about financial aid....
I read that tuition is not fully covered. Anyone have any experiences or further thoughts about this program?
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25 minutes ago, Psyhopeful said:
So my interview weekend went great I thought. I emailed my POI to say thanks the next day and she hasn’t responded, and now I’m second guessing everything. Ugh, lol.
I'd say don't worry about it, likely happens more often than you think! POIs are probably super busy, and may just get to you in a couple days. I emailed someone the night of the interview, and they responded a couple days later. Don't beat yourself up!
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10 hours ago, ninjasub2 said:
How formal are people dressing for interviews?
1 hour ago, dancedementia said:I've been wearing a blouse and slacks. No suits for me. Most folks tend to wear suits. I'm just at a point in my life where I feel much more comfortable without, and would prefer a program that isn't going to ding me on something as silly as whether I wore a suit vs a blouse
I agree with @dancedementia - wear what makes you feel most confident and comfortable. People at the interview that I went to were wearing a variety of colors, and even some patterns, though most were wearing a blazer (for women) or suit (for men). Black, grey, and blue were the most popular outwear color.
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15 minutes ago, ClinicalApplicant2019 said:
Has anyone heard back with any news from the following schools: CU Denver, Duke, Drexel, UConn, Pitt, UVM, or UDel? I haven't heard a single word from all seven schools, which has me really worried...
Any feedback would be helpful!
I had contacted UDel ? seems like all their interviews have been extended at this time. Not sure about the other schools though
Should I retake the Psyc GRE?
in Psychology Forum
Posted
I don't think it's a make or break to have 90th percentile, and this is mostly based on what my professors on the admissions committee told me. However, I think it's best to have at least 75th-80th percentile given the sheer volume of people applying - they have to start filtering somewhere. The important of the exam all depends on the program itself. Some value it more than others.
The most helpful thing to study, in my opinion, is the practice exam that the ETS posts on their website. I know a couple questions from that exam showed up when I took it.