When applying to graduate school it is important to remember that you should be researching the school as much as they are researching you. Therefore when you begin searching for a graduate school make sure that you check out the program very thoroughly. You should check out the program on the internet, send away for information about the program, visit the campus, and make contact with someone in the program.
Graduate schools look for many things in potential students; grades and GRE scores* are very important but here is a list of other things that graduate schools look for:
- Strong letters of recommendation
- Research experience
- Work experience
- Clinically related public service
- Extracurricular activities
- Interview
- Personal statement/goals
*Click here for more information on the GRE.
It is important to get to know your professors; how are they going to write a letter of recommendation for you if they do not even know who you are? Stop by their office during office hours, get to know them, ask them about their research. That way you will be memorable and they will be able to write you a better letter of recommendation.
Research experience is very important for students looking into graduate school. Much of what you will be doing in a PhD program is research, and if you have undergraduate experience in research you will look much more impressive to the graduate school. You can either conduct your own research or help a professor with theirs.
Work and public service related to psychology is a very good indicator of your interest in the field of psychology. If possible, during your undergraduate career do a practicum within the field of psychology. Doing so will provide you with valuable experience working in a psychological setting, and will help you to develop a clearer sense of your goals.
Extracurricular activities are important to some PhD programs. If possible, join your school's chapter of the Psi Chi Honor Society or the Psychology Club.
Finally, when you are far enough along in your graduate school search, concentrate on the interviews with the school and your personal mission statement. This is the time to sell yourself. Be sure to include how you will benefit the program, and why you want to be a part of that program. Indicate that you have researched the program and the ways in which the program is a good fit for your professional goals.
Remember, getting into a graduate school is not easy; if at first you do not get into a graduate school, do not give up. Work in the "real world" for a couple years, or do voluntary service, both of which will help you in getting into a graduate school the second time around. Many graduate students are not fresh out of their undergraduate program; many of the students will be in their late 20's, 30's or even 40's!
