Getting Started
I think an ideal time to get started with your actual applications is in August. Schools are starting to get their apps up on the web, and if they're not, you can always start writing a personal statement.
Here are a few things that are really helpful, and often necessary, for the applicant:
- A spreadsheet. Make yourself a spreadsheet of your schools, along with columns for important application information, such as: application deadline, number of recommendations and transcripts, where to send recommendations and transcripts, whether there is a separate psych department app, whether you must send a writing sample, application fee, and your username and password for online applications - plus any other information you find helpful.
- A coffee shop with free wifi. You're doing something unpleasant - nice ambiance, tasty and overpriced food and coffee, and the faces of friendly regulars will help. Some people find that working around others keeps them on task...
- Friends who are applying. If working with others helps you work, then you can get together once a week (or more often during crunch time) and work on apps together. When I was applying, I started a group called GAG (Graduate Aspirations Group) that met for working, advice, bitching, commiserating, and proofreading. It was nice to feel a sense of solidarity, rather than competition, with each other during a trying time. If you don't know anyone who's applying, put out an ad on the internet.
- One of these. An expanding file case helped me to organize the actual paper documents I was going to be sending to each school. Change the tabs to school names, and you're on your way. A good thing to do is put a checklist in each pocket that shows what documents you will need for that school. After you get in to grad school, you can use it to organize your bills or something...get creative :)
- A printer. Sure, the applications are all online now. Completely paperless! Yeah, right. you're definitely going to need a printer, and if you've got the money, definitely get one with a scanner and copier, as well - or else Kinko's is going to have your name and credit card number memorized by the end of the whole ordeal.
- Money. Count on an average of about $100 spent per school. This goes toward the application fee, sending GRE scores ($15 each), sending transcripts, and mailing costs.
- A healthy attitude. Remember that not getting in to graduate school is not the end of the world. Do your best, but don't stress yourself sick. You can always apply again. Or find another field of psychology. Or join a commune (I considered this). Or...
- Have a Plan B. Make sure you come up with an idea of what you'd like to do if you don't get into grad school this year. It can be something to make your application stronger (like working as a research assistant). Or it can just be something else you might enjoy doing as well (a different job, or a life experience such as traveling). You can also apply to a variety of non-clinical psychology programs that might be easier to get into.
