Interview with Alisha Patel

Applying to graduate school involves first deciding on the type(s) of programs you'd like to be a part of. Then, coming up with a realistic list of schools to apply to. Then figuring out when the applications open and the deadlines. Requesting letters of recommendation from professors or mentors. Writing personal statements/letters of intent. Then, once you receive interview invitations, preparing for those and attending them.

I started researching schools during my junior year to see what the prerequisite classes were for various programs and to ensure that I would be able to take them if I hadn't already. I began my actual application process in late summer/early fall 2017. It began by finding out when the applications opened and the deadlines for each. During late summer I also contacted my recommenders to see if they would be willing to write me letters of recommendation. I then began my personal statements once the applications opened until I was finished with them/the deadlines. I finished with my applications at the end of fall 2017. I started getting invited to interviews in Winter 2018 and went to the interviews that quarter as well. Also, of course taking the GRE in advance. I took it once in January 2017 and again in July 2017.

The Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical Psychology book was very helpful in deciding which programs to apply to. Laura Buffardi [professional psychology admissions consultant] was a great resource for me. She helped me with interview prep, editing my CVs, and also helping me with my personal statements. 

Yes, I was interviewed for each program that I was accepted to. The interviews are typically 4-7 hours. There is usually a program overview, q&a session, interviews with faculty members, interviews with students or time to ask them questions, and a campus tour. Questions are pretty typical of any job interview... (why are you interested in this program, what are your experiences, etc.)

I did have to take some additional classes. Typical requirements for PsyD. programs are Developmental Psychology, Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal/Clinical Psychology, Theories of Personality, Statistics, Research Methods, History and Systems of Psychology. The only ones that weren't available at UCSD was Theories of Personality.

My best advice is to start as early as possible and really be as organized as you can. I wanted to give myself ample time to apply because I knew that I would also be juggling classes at UCSD, extracurriculars, etc. I had multiple spreadsheets to stay organized as well. Find what works for you and be consistent about it so that all the information is clear because there is a lot of info to be aware of.