Help? Need opinion.

[pips591]

Hi, I just created this account because I wanted to get others opinion. I've applied to Counseling Psych Ph.D programs and am currently wait-listed in one (that happens to be my top choice), and will go through a M.ED. interview for another. All the other schools have so far rejected me for the Ph.D. program. I currently have a MA in Psychology so I would like to avoid getting a second master's degree, however I am so anxious that I may not get into a counseling program (even though I am trying to be positive) that I'm thinking of applying to other Master of Counseling programs... that have due dates on March 1st, plus more fees, and I would need to get my recommenders to send out some more letters. 

I don't know if I'm being consumed by negativity and anxiety or if I'm being pragmatic. Help?

[aebh615]

To use some of the language of my field, you seem to be approaching this from an achievement (I must get an acceptance!) rather than a growth (I must engage in activities that further my educational goals!) mindset. There's nothing objectively wrong with any of the choices you outlined here, but it sounds like you need to think about your long-term career goals and determine what action you should (or can) take towards them right now. 

51 minutes ago, pips591 said:

 I would like to avoid getting a second master's degree

If this is true, then what's the rationale behind applying to additional Master's programs? Is it because you could more quickly reach your career goals by enrolling somewhere--anywhere--by fall 2016? Would one of these programs substantively add to your application and make you a better PhD candidate later? As someone with a psych background, I know many career paths are heavily limited without a PhD -- can you get where you want to be without one? Again, no right or wrong answers here, but it does require some introspection and realistic consideration of your options.

Finally, don't throw a sloppy, last minute application together just for the sake of trying to salvage a disappointing application cycle! If you can thoughtfully prepare applications for programs you identify as strong alternatives to waiting another year and re-applying to PhD programs again, then do it. Good luck!

[pips591]

Thank you for responding. I do agree about not hastily putting together an application. I do know what I want to do with my future and will definitely need to get a Ph.D for that. If I'm hesitant about a second masters it's because Its more time, however it'd should (maybe?) help if I were to apply for a doctorate program again. 

[rising_star]

If you get rejected, try to gain research or practical experience in the field, rather than going into debt for a second master's degree.