Waitlist/Rejections. ADVICE PLEASE

[AspiringSLP2be]

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

[Rorororosy]

I think its too early for you to be thinking about your life choices. ALOT of people get off the waitlist and being waitlisted to 7 schools is really promising. I think you're doing everything right, I am 28, I thought I wanted to go to med school then didn't like that then thought maybe PA school but now and now I found SLP and I wonder why I ever wanted to do anything else!

People reapply up to 3 times, I think its still early and I hope that you get in somewhere! Everyone has a journey they have gone through to get here and you're not old at all! 

 

[languagegirl]

I think you're a competitive candidate! When it comes to the GRE, the most important thing would be to just make sure they are within the ranges the schools provide, which I always found on ASHA's edfind! If not, why not call up the schools? I know a lot of programs are willing to discuss your application and what could make it better!! I hope you get into your waitlisted schools! If not, don't give up!!!

[AspiringSLP2be]

Thank you guys so much for the kind an encouraging words. @Rorororosy I am so glad you found your passion. I wish you the best of luck. Anyone else who wants to vent their story here I would be more than happy to listen! So many amazing SLP candidates out there  

[SLPgradstudent]

49 minutes ago, AspiringSLP2be said:

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

First of all, you are not too old to be entering this field.  I am 29, turning 30 this year, and I'll be starting in the fall.  So I've got a few years on you.    Also, a lot of the people I did my 2nd bachelor's with are switching careers, have families, are in their 30s, 40s, or even 50s.  If this is what you love, what you really want to do, then don't give up.  Also, my stats are in my signature, I don't have a stellar cumulative GPA either.  I agree with @Rorororosy & @SLPCeli, you're a competitive candidate with a good shot of getting in.  If you don't get in this year for some reason, I would give it at least one more round of applications.  Take a GRE prep class, spend the year boosting the aspects of your application that you aren't satisfied with yet.

Also, I worked at a therapeutic riding camp too!

[HooHooHooHoosiers]

1 hour ago, AspiringSLP2be said:

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

Wow. Reading this felt so surreal! To start off, I too will be 25 in a month, cum GPA is 3.3, have been working as an ABA therapist for over a year, GRE is basically the exact same, your major GPA is much better than mine though! I am currently on 5 waitlists, have gotten 3 rejections, and am waiting to hear on one more school. It is very frustrating for sure! At this point,I honestly do not know what I am going to to do next if I don't get in. I will probably go ahead with a 3rd attempt, but after that, I don't know. I think the experience definitely helped me to get all these waitlists because the first time around I got denied by every single school and one waitlist. I feel your pain trust me! Here's to hoping these waitlists work out for us!!! Did you apply to different schools this time? I swear it took me six months to narrow down where I wanted to apply this time.

[AspiringSLP2be]

@Hoosier27 feel free to email me! You are abolsutely not alone  I'm glad you were able to relate. I applied to different schools this go-around, aside from one school where I was wait listed last year. This year? Wait listed again. It sounds like you know this is what you want to do. Isn't ABA fascinating!? I work under the supervision of a BCBA and it's really made me question if that is the route I should be going down...like I said. Feel free to email me, perseverance is key. So glad you were able to relate to my story  

[NorcalSLP]

8 hours ago, AspiringSLP2be said:

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

I may have missed it (loooooong day with clients who had the gall to act like children (note: they are in fact, children) so my reading comprehension is pretty low right now). But is your bachelors in Speech and hearing? If not get those prerecs done. Otherwise you have 7 wait lists so don't worry yet, they may move. If need be, contact those schools and ask how to better your application. Then go from there. 

[SLP2Bhopefully]

I am in the same position so don't feel bad! I graduated with a 3.4 cumulative GPA and a 3.8 in the major (SLP). My GRE V and Q are quite low but I have taken it twice and only raised them 2 points each. My writing is a 5.5 for both times though.

I applied twice to 10 schools. Got rejected by all the first year and waitlisted at 1 last year. This Fall I started a masters in a related field with a 4.0 and finally got an interview to the one school I applied to that requires them. However, it is not looking good since many people have already heard back. I only applied to 5 schools this year since I am already in a masters program so I figured if I don't get in now I will just complete my current program then try again.

i have TONS of experience and have done over 200 hours observing/volunteering, internships, nanny experience, ASL, work in school districts, etc. So it is discouraging that I cannot seem to score higher on my GRE and also that schools focus so much on my lower grades I received in undergrad GenEd classes

But I also am not giving up! I joked that I got rejected my first year, waitlisted last year, got an interview this year, and maybe NEXT year will be my year  I just wish as far as interviews go they would really review applications as a WHOLE and then offer interviews to just make sure you're really passionate about the field and have the personality to match their program. Otherwise going BACK over your application then saying "actually no thanks" is such a let down. But who knows! You being on 7 waitlists seems like good odds! 

So my advice is not to give up. I have seen people apply 5 times before getting in. I may be one of those people haha. Good luck!!

[nugget_speechie]

Don't count yourself out just yet! I had a 3.3 cumulative GPA, 3.5 major GPA, V: 148 Q: 152 AW: 4.0 

The first time, I only applied to 3 schools and got rejected from all of them. Afterwards, I started looking at ways to make myself a better candidate and ended up landing a job as an SLPA at a pediatric outpatient clinic. This reaffirmed my love for the field and gave me solid experience as a clinician. I think its so awesome that you have experience with ABA, because where I work-we see so many children with challenging behaviors-and it makes me wish that I got exposure to that prior to working in the field. 

Anyways I definitely felt discouraged and thought there was no chance I would get in. So I spent a lot of time researching schools. I applied to 10 schools this cycle, and actually got accepted to one of them last week! So it's possible. Hard work does pay off in the end, and I don't think you should give up if this is your dream! Maybe you could schedule a campus visit at some of the schools and express your interest? It could help putting a face to a name especially if you're on the waitlist! 

 

 

[thespeechblog.com]

On 3/22/2016 at 3:16 PM, AspiringSLP2be said:

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

It sounds like you've got all makings of a strong candidate! 

If you're on the waitlist at several schools, that's a good sign! It means that SEVEN schools have said "They WANT you as a student and they're hoping to make room for you." If you can, try to visit those schools or at least call and speak with some faculty. That might be just what you need to boost yourself to the top of their waiting lists. 

I spoke with a now SLP who applied in three different application cycles; I actually interviewed her for my blog. It was a journey, but if you're willing to put in the effort and take some risks, you can do it! 

[sds2020]

I am considering a highly specialized graduate program where the median age of entry is 42 and eight years of professional experience is required...the only thing you have working against you is panic. Panic is the enemy of all things logical. Take a deep breath, you will be fine!

[edardi1]

On 3/21/2016 at 4:16 PM, AspiringSLP2be said:

So this is my second time applying to graduate school. I have been following this forum for awhile now, but day after day I am getting either rejected (3) or waitlisted (7). I am currently 25, and yes, although I am still young, I feel as though I am running out of time/options. My LOR's and GPA in the major (3.8) definitely help with my application, however, I am beginning to think that my GRE scores are what is keeping me from being noticed. V: 152 Q:140 AW. 4.5 (also my cumulative GPA is a 3.3)

This is not me reaching out trying to get emotional support, but at this point in my life, I really do need advice. I am determined that this is what I'm supposed to do. After getting denied last year, I took courses and became a registered behavior technician. I work with children with developmental disabilties. i believe this experience makes me a competitive applicant for graduate schools. I have also volunteered at a theaputic riding program and worked under the supervision of a physical, occupational and speech therapist.

I guess what I am trying to ask is are THERE ANY PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH THE SAME STORY? I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be doing but is it really my Quant score that is keeping me from getting into a graduate program? I mean 7 waitlists?!!! I don't mind being told harsh truths, so all comments are welcome. congrats to all those who got in this time around  

Omg!  Are you my twin?  Seriously, we have the same story.  It's my GRE score that's keeping me out of graduate school too.  So far I've been rejected from 3 of the 5 schools I applied to this year.  4/5 schools I applied to for the first time, one school this is my third time applying there.  I've taken the GRE so many times and keep getting a 292 and my cumulative gpa is 3.3  The school I keep getting rejected from suggested to me today to retake some courses and try my best to get the GRE score up.  I know this is what I want to do.  I'm 27 years old, so I'm getting frustrated because I'm getting "old" and want to be settled into my career, but life has a funny way of working out sometimes.  I also have worked under the supervision of SLPs and I currently do ABA therapy with kids with autism, and I also volunteer at a therapeutic riding farm.  Everyone keeps telling me not to get discouraged, so you don't get discouraged either!  I'm going to contact all the schools I got rejected from and ask them what I should work on.  Good luck!

[steveshooman]

I just wanted to mention that if GRE scores are really the sticking point, there are school that either don't require them at all or don't pay attention to them if your GPA is above a certain point. I'm in California, and I know of at least two programs that work like this: CSU East Bay and CSU Sacramento. It might be worth a try to focus on applying to schools that don't use GRE as the determining factor.

[Kslptobe]

8 hours ago, steveshooman said:

I just wanted to mention that if GRE scores are really the sticking point, there are school that either don't require them at all or don't pay attention to them if your GPA is above a certain point. I'm in California, and I know of at least two programs that work like this: CSU East Bay and CSU Sacramento. It might be worth a try to focus on applying to schools that don't use GRE as the determining factor.

True, but East Bay is extremely impacted and Sacramento takes more than 90% of their own students. 

[steveshooman]

Just now, Kslptobe said:

True, but East Bay is extremely impacted and Sacramento takes more than 90% of their own students. 

Both of these things are true, but I got into Sac State as a first-time grad applicant and an outside student. It's worth a shot!

[Jolie717]

23 hours ago, sds2020 said:

I am considering a highly specialized graduate program where the median age of entry is 42 and eight years of professional experience is required...the only thing you have working against you is panic. Panic is the enemy of all things logical. Take a deep breath, you will be fine!

Really?  What field?  That sounds refreshingly different, lol.

[Jolie717]

21 hours ago, steveshooman said:

I just wanted to mention that if GRE scores are really the sticking point, there are school that either don't require them at all or don't pay attention to them if your GPA is above a certain point. I'm in California, and I know of at least two programs that work like this: CSU East Bay and CSU Sacramento. It might be worth a try to focus on applying to schools that don't use GRE as the determining factor.

Cal State Northridge also accepts the MAT test in place of GREs.  I think Loma Linda in CA also does not require GREs.

[Dreamtobeslp]

On April 1, 2016 at 0:28 AM, edardi1 said:

Omg!  Are you my twin?  Seriously, we have the same story.  It's my GRE score that's keeping me out of graduate school too.  So far I've been rejected from 3 of the 5 schools I applied to this year.  4/5 schools I applied to for the first time, one school this is my third time applying there.  I've taken the GRE so many times and keep getting a 292 and my cumulative gpa is 3.3  The school I keep getting rejected from suggested to me today to retake some courses and try my best to get the GRE score up.  I know this is what I want to do.  I'm 27 years old, so I'm getting frustrated because I'm getting "old" and want to be settled into my career, but life has a funny way of working out sometimes.  I also have worked under the supervision of SLPs and I currently do ABA therapy with kids with autism, and I also volunteer at a therapeutic riding farm.  Everyone keeps telling me not to get discouraged, so you don't get discouraged either!  I'm going to contact all the schools I got rejected from and ask them what I should work on.  Good luck!

 

Hello twins! Just wanted you guys to know that I'm in the same boat! It's exhausting but I know this is what I'm supposed to do! Good luck!