u/Roxanne_W0508

Hi everyone! I got into one of my top PsyD programs, and I’ll be starting this September, which I’m really excited about.

I also graduated from my undergrad one semester early, so now I suddenly have a lot of free time, and I’m starting to get bored. I feel like I’ve rested enough these past few months and want to use this time in a productive way.

The annoying part is that it’s been difficult finding a job since I’m an international student, and I’m also planning to go back home in late June, so it feels like an awkward in-between period right now.

For those already in PsyD / clinical psych programs:

• What would you recommend doing before the first year starts?
• Anything you wish you had done before beginning your program?
• Any books, skills, certifications, or topics worth learning now?
• Or honestly… any meaningful ways to kill time while still staying somewhat related to psych? (For context, I want to do pediatric psych + health psych (e.g., organ transplants, heart problems, and chronic pain) + school psych.)

Would really appreciate any advice. Thanks!