Question

Hoping for some thoughts or advice about the experience component of PsyD programs.

I am currently in application for several clinical programs (PGSP, Wright State, Wright Institute, Pacific, JFK, and CIIS.) I expect the process to go well and lead to at least some offers.

I am also considering waiting an additional year, however, because I have a job that I love.

That job is working at a crisis center, doing full time intervention counseling and being directly mentored by several intelligent and skillful counselors. I work directly with clients at least 30 hours a week, and in addition to the clinical experience itself, I almost always arrive at work excited, and leave fulfilled. I am truly happy at the job, and sincerely believe that the environment is uniquely supportive.

I've been out of school for several years, and do not feel rushed about getting my degree, yet I also wonder how many years I can keep choosing other pursuits, and in some ways feel (career) obligated to enroll this year rather than next.

My concern is that, even in one of the better programs I've applied to, the clinical experience that I am getting now where I am encouraged me to engage in my own study and I am supported by people who genuinely care about my development, may be something that I will not find again for several years, or more.

I suppose my belief is that staying at this job another year will make me a better counselor, and a happier person, while beginning a graduate program will advance my career and is the "appropriate" thing to do. I'm wondering if it is possible to have both, or if one might actually be a better choice than the other.

Any help in making informed decision would be very much appreciated.

Thank you in advance. =)

Answer 1

That's a tough one.  I'm coming from a different field (vet) but had to make a similar decison.  I was in a job I loved, making good money, getting GREAT very relevant experience, and was well supported.  

When I was 3 years out of school, a person I well respected at the company sat me down and said "go back in 5 years or don't go back at all, and if you are going to go back and get your DVM, give me the year".  I said 2011, which was 2 years away and right at that 5 year limit.  

My job continued to be wonderful, however about 6 months ago the company underwent a huge reorganization and I now it's all I can do to get through work every day.  I am SO glad I didn't wait until today to apply, and that my path to admissions is well underway (have a interview with UCD in 2 weeks).  

It's a huge sacrifice.  I'm stepping away from $$, a lucrative career, and a sure future, but it's the right decision because being a vet is what I truely want to do.  And let's face it, getting school over with sooner rather than later is going to be easier because I'm still unmarried with kids.

My advice?
1.  you never know what your job will look like in X years.  Start the application process now because likely it's an 18 month process to prepare the application, apply etc.  One reason I want the degree is security - I'm much more likely to be able to transfer laterally if I need to change jobs, than with just my BS.
2.  Set a date today.  Even if it's in 2-3 years and stick with it.
3.  Remind yourself why you wanted teh advanced degree in the first place - by keeping my goals clear, its' helped me not be distracted in the last 5 years from my ultimate goal of my degree.