Grad School

I want to apply for grad school in Texas, I want to go for counseling with future LPC certification or clinical psychology. I just want advice for those that have applied or have seen themselves in the same situation. It is asking me for a proposal (letter of intent) outlining what I have done to prepare myself for my master's and what my plans are for the future. I really don't know what to write. I have no volunteer work and other than a short internship, I don't know what to write or say. Does anyone have any tips?

I'm only an undergrad, but in my opinion, you could reference your personal hardships and how your experience as an immigrant has informed your worldview, your desire to help others, etc. Mention books you've read or any other activities you've been a part of. Talk about your online youth advocacy with the DREAM Act. This forum should count as something, with nearly 600 posts, I'm sure you've been a great resource for many undocumented students.

Also, its never too late to start volunteering! You could join something now.

In addition to submitting a statement of purpose, you must also submit letters of recommendation. If you don't know many professors who could write you good letters of rec, you might want to do another internship or work as a research assistant, so you can ask more professors for letters of rec. Doing another internship or research assistantship will also help you write a stronger statement of purpose because you will be able to back up everything you say with more experience.

Having said that, if you choose to apply this year instead of waiting, I suggest that you talk about what you plan to study when you do your masters in your statement of purpose. Mention what topics you are interested in. Discuss relevant research and point out holes in the literature. What direction should researchers take in studying a particular topic? Talking about such things will make your statement of purpose stand out. These things were suggested by one of my professors when I asked him about writing a statement of purpose.

I myself want to apply to grad school one day, but I think I'll wait til I become legal because I'm interested in getting a PhD. It would be pretty hard to do so without papers.

I agree with you, I was thinking I rather wait until I am legal no need to waste money for another degree that is nothing more than a piece of paper. I really want to apply for the Counseling PhD but I am tired of wasting time. My birthday is right around the corner, turning 26, and I am engaged to a USC but at the same time I am second guessing myself. Am I wasting my time and money?