You need only to poll other prospective applicants to realize that applying to a PsyD degree program cannot be “boiled” down to a simple formula or fit together like a perfectly constructed puzzle. The equation may not balance out and one puzzle piece may not necessarily fit together with all the others. However, most PsyD…
Making Friends With the GRE: How To Overcome Test Anxiety and Perform at Your Best
“I can’t stop trembling…I can’t eat…I cry for little or no reason…I am just so nervous.” All of this from Janelle, a prospective graduate student on her response to scheduling a GRE test date. I was not surprised that Janelle was nervous as almost all prospective graduate students are a bit anxious about admissions’ tests….
The “Sizzle Factor”: 5 Tips for Writing PsyD Personal Statements
“What should I include?” “How do I start?” “What will impress the faculty committee?” “Is it okay to brag about my accomplishments?” These are the most common questions asked by PsyD applicants about their application essay. The fact that different programs refer to the essay as a “Personal Statement,” “Statement of Purpose,” “Graduate Essay,”…
Acing the PsyD Interview: The 3-P Plan
Congratulations! You have successfully made the “cut.” You are among the select few PsyD applicants who are in serious consideration for acceptance. In fact, your odds for acceptance have increased. This is NOT, however, the time to sit back and relax. Now, more than ever, you need to stand out, and you’ll do that through…
The Art of Interviewing—Are You a “Can” or a “Cannot”?
“I am doomed… This is a disaster… I really never expected this… What am I going to do?” This from Daniel, a prospective PhD student. I couldn’t imagine what had happened to cause such a negative response, especially as Daniel is a very strong candidate with impeccable credentials. My shock was further compounded when he…
One Size Does NOT Fit All – Resume Writing Tips
“I don’t understand… I already have a perfect resume… I have used it in all of my job searches… I don’t need to make any changes… I really don’t need help with this.” This was from Carina, a prospective Master in Environmental Engineering student. I had told Carina that she needed to improve her resume,…
Your PsyD Application – 6 Mistakes to Avoid
“What should I do and how should I do it?” is the question most frequently asked by PsyD applicants. Understandably, PsyD doctoral applicants want to ensure that they are perceived as bright, creative, dedicated to learning, well suited to the program, eager to pursue research that aligns well with the graduate faculty, and well prepared…
PsyD vs. PhD – Making the Choice
To borrow from Shakespeare, “To PsyD or PhD that is the question.” That is, in fact, a question that many undergraduate psychology majors contemplate as they approach graduation. Without doubt, after over twenty years in higher education and over five years as an Accepted graduate admissions consultant, I have seen and heard almost everything. But…
“What Next….” Is Graduate School For You?
I was grading midterm exams in my office one frigid day in March when I was surprised to see Marco, a former student, standing in my doorway. He had that all too familiar “deer in headlights” look on his face. I invited him to step in and asked how I could help. He proceeded to…
