Unfortunately, I do not possess any research experience. Even worse, I have not worked in mental health, let alone in a clinical setting. I have, however, worked with, albeit indirectly, with those suffering from psychological disorders. I found these individuals extremely unique and very rewarding to assist. And more importantly, I listened!
I applied for a PsyD Clinical program but I was not deemed a qualified candidate for reasons stated above and some early poor performance in college. The committee decided to consider me for the MA Clinical, more as a 'proving ground' though. The decision is actually what I had anticipated and I am still very excited.
Cool! This sounds like a great place to start. You'll get your feet wet and find out if clinical psychology truly is your passion. Since you are applying to a PsyD program, the emphasis on research is much less. It's probably okay that you don't have any experience, especially if you don't ever plan to hold an academic research position once you are done. Research is a requirement for all PhD programs and I imagine you will have to do some to get your Master's, even in a PsyD program, but again... it all depends on the specific program requirements of your school.
As far as my application, I have stressed more of my
interpersonal skills, positive attitude, personal attributes, emotional stability and overall enthusiasm and interst in Clinical Psychology. Below you will find possible questions and my "first draft" responses. Please be brutally honest and CRITICAL!
All good attributes to emphasize!
1) Why do you want to be a psychologist?
- I would like to become an expert at helping people find their way through life’s difficulties. I would like to help others overcome feelings of distress, help mend relationship problems, resolve career and family conflicts, accept and overcome physical illness, work stress, substance abuse, addiction and of course, the anxiety and depression that can accompany these challenges. In general, I am interested in dealing with those challenges that affects peoples’ emotional or mental state and any corresponding behavioral changes.
Okay. These are very broad areas of interest. Not saying that you can't address all of these in a clinical or counseling setting, indeed, clinical skills overlap in all of these areas, but you may want to focus your expertise on just one or two... like depression and anxiety, or addictions, or marital counseling. It may take time to figure out in which of these areas you possess the most effective treatment skills, but are there one or two areas that interest you the most? Admissions folks are gonna want to know that you are focused and serious, and not trying to save the world.
2) What qualifications do you possess that will make you a successful psychologist?
- I possess an insightful, accepting and professional perspective. Meaning, I am conscientious of peoples feeling and attitudes. I recognize, appreciate and embrace diversity- other cultures, belief systems and values. I am an accepting and inherently, altruistic person. And most importantly, I am committed to patient confidentiality and delivering effective treatment.
This is good. But you might want to reword some of it, especially the last sentence. It sounds a little like you're telling them what you think they want to hear, using a lot of jargon and whatnot. Just remember to BE YOURSELF. If your answers aren't genuine, it will show.
3) Will you tell me a little bit about yourself as a person?
- Not to sound like a personal ad but I am 25 year old, who, at first, is shy and reserved but enjoys every moment. I rarely say disparaging things of others, I am always quick to protect and care for those in need, and will always try to do the right thing regardless of consequences. I love Ribeye steaks, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the gym. I am a simple, humble and practical person. I am very respectful, polite, courageous and intuitive. And lastly, I cherish uniqueness.
This is a little hokey. Sorry... 
I would take out the personal ad bit and the ribeye steaks. I know you are trying to make it sound like "get to know the real Justin," but don't let your professionalism slide in the process. If it were me, I would talk a little more about you hobbies, working out included, what you like to do in your free time, mention the books and journals you have read, and maybe your family influences and role models, etc. I would keep the part about being quick to protect and care for others, but maybe add a specific example of a time when you acted that way.
4) Do you think your grades are valid indicators of your academic ability?
- Early in college, I was learning to adapt to new surrounding, expectations, and the rigors of college. I was maturing, growing and trying to discover my passion. Eventually, I discovered Psychology. Psychology afforded me the opportunity to learn about human behavior- primarily what motivates each of us!! I absorbed every morsel of information- almost effortlessly- even to an excess of reading every new psychology journal. I worked hard, overcame my deficiencies and excelled- a 3.7 GPA in Psychology course work.
Good. It's very important to talk about overcoming weaknesses. Remember to answer the question though... It's a very direct one. They are looking for a very direct answer. And an honest one.
5) What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses?
- Inquisitive- Asking questions ad nauseum. Twenty questions is my game and I play to win. I tirelessly ask questions, more often in private than in public. Curious- I possess a compulsion to learn and examine. Innovative- I love to think and evaluate.
- Public speaking (weakness)
Take out the "ad nauseum." That just has a negative connotation. Asking questions = good. Ad nauseaum = bad. LOL. Curious and innovative, good. Keep both of those and just add specific examples. Regarding public speaking as your weakness, expand on that and talk a little about how you work to manage or overcome that.
6) What do you bring into the program?
- An insatiable appetite for knowledge and excellence. However, I truly enjoy seeing EVERYONE succeed, especially peers. I love collaboration- the exchange of ideas. Finally, optimism, charisma, and a competitive spirit.
I love the first sentence. I would put your third sentence second and take out the "however."
7) What are your special attributes?
- I am a dynamic individual who yearns to discover the unknown, provide care and most importantly, respects, appreciates and embraces differences.
All of these answers are very good, Justin. I would just keep working to expand upon these ideas a little and add specific examples wherever you can. Once you have these nailed down, the interview should be a piece of cake!!
Thank you Natalie. This means alot and I do not even know you!!
No problem, whatsoever. Good luck!!
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