How can I improve my chances for graduate school?

[alexcarr23]

total GPA-3.52, major CSD GPA-3.73, last 60 units GPA-3.8

I was NSSHLA volunteer- 2 years, currently work in an autism classroom classified as moderate to severe, 3 interships in undergrad as a clinic aide, tutor anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism and neurolinguistics, worked with a girl with down syndrome for 6 months as part of in home therapy to improve speech and language, volunteered over 70 hours with individuals with visual impairments, attend CSHA conference was a moderator for one of the sessions, have 1.2 units of CEU from AAC Self Institute, trained in basic seizure management, CPR and first Aide certified. 

I also have over 50 hours of observation hours and 10 clinical contact hours. 

Two of my letters of Rec came from professors who I had an internships with. The other letter of Rec. is coming from the teacher I tutor for( anatomy and physiology of the speech mechanism and neurolinguistics) The speacil education teacher also offered to write me a letter but I found most programs only want three so I dont know if I can include this. 

I have not taken the GRE. However I do not feel very hopeful because I am not a great test taker and struggle with standardized tests. 

 

[lisa19]

It already sounds like you have the grades and experience. You said your LORs are from professors you had internships with. Have you also had them as professors? I know the admissions committee usually likes academic references since they can speak to how you will perform in the classroom.

 

You should compare your stats to those on ASHA EdFind. If there are schools where you have numbers below their average, try to make sure they at least accept a good number of their applicants. I didn't have the highest stats and the two programs I got into accepted about 1/3 of applicants.

 

Also make sure you work really hard on your SOP. I don't know what the admissions committee will look for exactly, but I figure that this is always one of the most important parts of an application because it's your only opportunity for you to show them who you truly are.

[CBG321]

I'm confused, you seem to have more background than the majority of people in my program.  Apply to schools that don't need the GRE if you do poorly and if you do great, everything else seems right in line!

 

And I agree your SOP is the only real wild card it seems like, so go get it edited at a writing center and get people you trust to review it and make sure it shows your passion.