SLP Fall 2014

[fsumann]

Hi all!  New guy here.  I am taking a break from writing my LOI and decided to hop over here and do some light reading.

 

I am currently a first year teacher in a K-3 autism class.  I also worked for 3 years prior as a paraprofessional in a Pre-K-Kindergarten autism class.  My gpa is 3.62 and I just took my GRE:  164 verbal and 157 quantitative (still waiting for writing score).  I am only applying to online programs at FSU and Nova due to job and family responsibilities.  I will be finishing the Speech Language Bridge program at FSU this spring, and I am hoping to get accepted into FSU for the summer 2014 start. 

 

Anyone have any tips or insights for me?

[Rach925]

Rach925: Hi! I'm also applying to UNI for Fall 2014! Actually, I've already sent in my application a few weeks ago. I'm just waiting 3-4 weeks (according to the admissions officer) before I know the result and I sure hope it's positive. If ever we both end up there, I'm glad I already know someone I guess. Please feel free to tell me any unpublished info about the grad program at UNI. Haha. 

Good to hear!! UNI is a great school with an even better graduate program. The program is really hands on/clincally based and the professors are incredible, they definietly have an open door policy. Good luck to you!

[tmr1523]

Hi everyone! I need some advice. I am thinking about taking the GRE just one more time before my applications are due. I looked today at the testing centers, and the only Saturday's available are in December (I just started a new job and can't take off yet). If I take it the first week in December, and my first application is due Jan. 15th, do you think that will be enough time to get my scores back?

[egorme]

@tmr1523:

 

ETS says that schools will receive scores from the computer-based test 10-15 days after the test date, so you should be fine retaking it during the first week of December.

Edited October 16, 2013 by egorme

[flnjslp]

Asked my second LOR writer today and she said yes! Now I just need one more for some of my applications.

 

I asked my research mentor (who is also the head of the USF grad school) and my current Clinical Process teacher. I just can't decide on my third one. Should I ask a teacher I had for a research course who also is also in charge of my undergraduate research certificate program or should I ask my current Aural Rehab teacher? This is difficult!

Edited October 17, 2013 by flnjslp

[NCAR823]

@flnjslp I just asked for my third letter today. So exciting! It is always reassuring when professors/professionals are excited to help I noticed you are interested in Selective mutism.. have you thought about research yet? I've read quite a bit on selective mutism because I taught a student whom I suspected was selectively mute. I knew him in and out of the classroom and he was so different with his family. Some of the research I did suggested it was more of a psychological problem than a language problem, where other professionals are insistent it's somehow more language related. All very interesting, very unusual cases.

 

As for the application process- sigh! I have changed my schools once again and am looking at just UNC-CH, Portland State, and MGHI. I am considering taking a second year to finish my post-bacc, so I can have more longevity in my research (I am involved in 2 different research projects now: ADHD and Autism) and present for my Language and Literacy Intervention program.

Mostly, I am thinking of doing a two-year program because I can't decide where I want to go to school anymore! Two weeks ago, I contacted MGH to speak with someone about doing a bilingual masters with an emphasis on autism and also be certified as a reading specialist. The admissions woman I spoke with made it sound like they don't offer a bilingual program, just the option to do bilingual research. She suggested I look at San Diego State, but I am not really interested in their program....

 

Portland State has been really easy for me (I am taking 4 classes in addition to the research, etc.), so I don't know how I feel about Graduate school here; I am so ready to be academically challenged and stimulated! I am hoping UNC happens, but it's so competitive for out-of-state applicants... right now my greatest concern is that I apply, get accepted to one of the other two schools, rejected from UNC, and turn down acceptance offers to give UNC another shot. Is that ridiculous??!

 

Decisions, decisions...

Edited October 17, 2013 by NCAR823

[flnjslp]

@flnjslp I just asked for my third letter today. So exciting! It is always reassuring when professors/professionals are excited to help I noticed you are interested in Selective mutism.. have you thought about research yet? I've read quite a bit on selective mutism because I taught a student whom I suspected was selectively mute. I knew him in and out of the classroom and he was so different with his family. Some of the research I did suggested it was more of a psychological problem than a language problem, where other professionals are insistent it's somehow more language related. All very interesting, very unusual cases

 

It is exciting! It made the process seem more "real" if that makes sense.

 

That's very interesting! My older brother (who is disabled) has selective mutism. He would not talk in school and now that he's in his work program he won't talk there either. But he talks your ear off at home, at the grocery store, ect. I do research currently but it is on spelling development, not selective mutism. I volunteer every week with a selective mutism therapy group though. I personally believe from the research that I've done and the sessions I have volunteered with that it is a combination of a language problem and a psychological problem.

[emikate51]

Hi emikate51!

I'm happy to see an Illinois native in this post.. all I ever weed through is Florida or California or what-have-you! I'm interested- what schools are you talking about? SIUE, SIUC, and?? I'm applying to both of those, as well as ISU, NIU, and EIU! My stats and experiences aren't as great as yours, so you're what I would consider "the competition" but from what I have heard and learned about the programs, it sounds like you will be a shoe-in!!

Hi! Nice to meet a fellow Illinoisian! lol I am applying to SIUE, SLU, and Fontebonne (live in Edwardsville, so they are all close). I've noticed that most of the schools around here aren't quite as competitive as some of the well known schools so that's nice but I'm still freaking out lol Good luck to you and maybe I'll see you in class next year! lol 

[AMarie]

Hi everyone I was a contributor to this forum last spring during application season and I ended up accepting my offer for UNC-CH. I went to UVA for my undergrad for communication disorders as well so if anyone has questions about either of those two programs or about the application process in general feel free to message me on FB (facebook.com/ashleymarie007) or by e-mail (ashley_taylor@med.unc.edu) GOOD LUCK!

[tmr1523]

This is somewhat random, but I will be going to two different schools to attend an Open House. I haven't been to an open house in forever, so I was just wondering what y'all recommend wearing? And do I bring a resume, or any information with me? Also, I remember going up to my undergrad open house with my parents, but is it a good idea to bring them this time too? Obviously I want my parents to be involved in this process with me, even though paying for it, but I don't want the prospective schools to think I need my parents there to make decisions for me. 

[GandalfTheGrey]

This is somewhat random, but I will be going to two different schools to attend an Open House. I haven't been to an open house in forever, so I was just wondering what y'all recommend wearing? And do I bring a resume, or any information with me? Also, I remember going up to my undergrad open house with my parents, but is it a good idea to bring them this time too? Obviously I want my parents to be involved in this process with me, even though paying for it, but I don't want the prospective schools to think I need my parents there to make decisions for me. 

Don't bring your parents. For dress code, I'd go business casual. I've seen plenty of people at open houses in jeans, but personally don't think it's a great idea. I would also recommend against wearing a suit.

[flnjslp]

I would like some advice if anyone can give it! I need three letters of recommendation for most of my schools. So far I have asked my research mentor (who is also the head of my undergrad's grad program) and my Clinical Process teacher. I just need to ask my last person. Here are my ideas/opinions....

1. One of the clinic supervisors at my school. I volunteer in his selective mutism sessions (play with the kids, collect data, ect). My brother has selective mutism so we have had many discussions about it. He has asked me if I'm applying to my undergrad's grad school and asked me for my stats.

2. My Aural Rehab teacher. I have never had to work so hard in a class and I go to her office hours all the time. I have an A now but I started with a B.

3. My Neuroanatomy teacher. His class is notoriously difficult but I am doing very well. I answer most of his review questions at the beginning of each class. I have been to his office hours once.

Does anyone have any input about these options? Thanks!

[NCAR823]

Typically schools like to see 2 professors, but many schools accept more than 3 LOR. I'm having 3 professors and my clinical supervisor write for me bc I had a sort if low UG GPA. I'd recommend the selective mutism bc I feel like it would highlight that aspect of experience and maybe the aural rehab professor. It seems the Aural Rehab prof may speak more to you as a hard-working academic.

[flnjslp]

Typically schools like to see 2 professors, but many schools accept more than 3 LOR. I'm having 3 professors and my clinical supervisor write for me bc I had a sort if low UG GPA. I'd recommend the selective mutism bc I feel like it would highlight that aspect of experience and maybe the aural rehab professor. It seems the Aural Rehab prof may speak more to you as a hard-working academic.

 

Thank you so much for your advice! I was thinking along those lines but it's always good to have other people's opinions

[dial1010usa]

Hi everyone I was a contributor to this forum last spring during application season and I ended up accepting my offer for UNC-CH. I went to UVA for my undergrad for communication disorders as well so if anyone has questions about either of those two programs or about the application process in general feel free to message me on FB (facebook.com/ashleymarie007) or by e-mail (ashley_taylor@med.unc.edu) GOOD LUCK!

 

Ashley- I have emailed you and hope you will reply back.

[shuca]

Hi everyone!! I've been following this thread for a few weeks now. It's really nice to read about what other applicants are doing to prepare their applications and get tips from them, but at the same time I'm starting to feel really intimidated!! Looking at everyone's impressive credentials makes me feel like my chances of getting in are pretty slim

I'm a non-native speaker and I got my undergrad degree in Japan. After that, I moved to the US and I got my MA in East Asian Languages and Literatures (with a focus on Japanese Linguistics). Then I started teaching Japanese at various universities. I have seven years of teaching experience and some volunteer experience, but nothing as extensive as other people here.

My biggest concern is the GRE... I'm taking it in a few weeks but being a non-native speaker of English, I really doubt I can score high enough on the Verbal section. I think I'll do fine on math, but probably not well enough to compensate for low verbal score. I took TOEFL (even though I'm not required to, since I got my masters in the US) and got 118 out of 120 so I'm hoping addcom will consider my TOEFL score as a better demonstration of my English ability.

I also don't have a very good undergrad GPA (3.1), but I have 3.8 for my masters GPA.

Gosh I feel like my application is full of flaws :/. I had better write a glowing SOP!!!

[NCAR823]

I'm considering adding UT-Austin to my list. Anyone else applying? Thoughts on the program?

[USFMD2015]

Hey guys!

 

I am currently a graduate student at USF (Go Bulls!).  I was in your position last year and I know its so nerve racking! If you guys have any questions about applying or USF's program, let me know (:

It's a great program if you are considering it and the clinic is amazing!

 

Best of luck!

 

 

Edited November 4, 2013 by USFMD2015

[ehemingway]

Anyone here applying to schools in downstate NY and NJ?

[Bcjami]

Hello Everyone! 

I'm getting so depressed before the application season has officially began. This will be the third year I have applied. I feel so dumb. The first two years I was teaching  and did not have any background in speech. This year I took off from teaching and dedicated myself to taking pre-req classes. It just seems as though I hit a bump in the road  everywhere I turn. Oh, this class won't count for this, you don't have enough hours for that, your GRE is not competitive enough, etc. I want this so bad, I just don't know what else I can do. I think the GRE is what is holding me back the most. I made a 293 on the new GRE and 940 on the old. I have taken it 3 times so far and I'm taking it again in November. I have studied and studied. McGoosh, private long-term tutors. I just don't know, maybe this isn't for me. I have been volunteering doing pet therapy with special needs kids every week for 2.5 hours along with many speech observations. Does anyone have any advice for me? I only have November and December left, is there anything else I can do?

Thanks in advance:)

Brittany 

[flnjslp]

Anyone here applying to schools in downstate NY and NJ?

 

I'm applying to Montclair, William Paterson, Seton Hall, and potentially Kean (debating on that one). How about you?

[SLPamy]

Hello Everyone! 

I'm getting so depressed before the application season has officially began. This will be the third year I have applied. I feel so dumb. The first two years I was teaching  and did not have any background in speech. This year I took off from teaching and dedicated myself to taking pre-req classes. It just seems as though I hit a bump in the road  everywhere I turn. Oh, this class won't count for this, you don't have enough hours for that, your GRE is not competitive enough, etc. I want this so bad, I just don't know what else I can do. I think the GRE is what is holding me back the most. I made a 293 on the new GRE and 940 on the old. I have taken it 3 times so far and I'm taking it again in November. I have studied and studied. McGoosh, private long-term tutors. I just don't know, maybe this isn't for me. I have been volunteering doing pet therapy with special needs kids every week for 2.5 hours along with many speech observations. Does anyone have any advice for me? I only have November and December left, is there anything else I can do?

Thanks in advance:)

Brittany 

 

It's awesome that you're not giving up! I think that alone should mean something to admissions committees. I would definitely apply to more than 2 places (I'm assuming from your signature that that's what you did)... and look at schools that don't consider the GRE! I know someone who got into grad school last year without ever taking the GRE. Since you are taking it again, I would say to try to focus on areas you know you're not strong in. Your experiences sounds great though. I'm not sure what else you can add before applications are due - maybe try to get involved in research? Are you doing okay in your pre-req classes? I think that will also be significant. 

Besides that, definitely try to keep your spirits up! And rock your personal statements!

[Bcjami]

It's awesome that you're not giving up! I think that alone should mean something to admissions committees. I would definitely apply to more than 2 places (I'm assuming from your signature that that's what you did)... and look at schools that don't consider the GRE! I know someone who got into grad school last year without ever taking the GRE. Since you are taking it again, I would say to try to focus on areas you know you're not strong in. Your experiences sounds great though. I'm not sure what else you can add before applications are due - maybe try to get involved in research? Are you doing okay in your pre-req classes? I think that will also be significant. 

Besides that, definitely try to keep your spirits up! And rock your personal statements!

Thanks very much! Yes I'm going to apply to a lot! I do need to look into places that do not require it, it's just going to take more effort on my part because all of those schools are far far away. I'm doing great in my pre-req's, all A's so far:) Do you think doing more observations will help at all? I already have 25 clinical hours for grad prep along with some other observations. I have 2 months that I can, I just want to focus on things that I can do that will actually help. 

[ehemingway]

I'm applying to Montclair, William Paterson, Seton Hall, and potentially Kean (debating on that one). How about you?

I'm going Montclair, William Paterson and Kean in NJ, while a few CUNYs being the only not on LI. Have you heard much about the programs in NJ you're applying to?

[flnjslp]

I'm going Montclair, William Paterson and Kean in NJ, while a few CUNYs being the only not on LI. Have you heard much about the programs in NJ you're applying to?

 

Not really unfortunately :/ I'm from NJ but I'm doing my undergrad in Florida (U of South Florida) so my professors don't know that much about the NJ programs.