Spotlights: Annual virtual recruitment event recap

The UW Psychology Diversity Steering Committee is proud to have recently hosted the 3rd annual virtual recruitment event this September: “Diversifying Psychology: A Sneak Peek for Graduate School.” This event was designed to reach anyone considering a PhD in psychology, especially folks from historically marginalized groups and those often underrepresented in academia. We aim to de-mystify the application process generally and, more specifically, to educate attendees on UW’s Psychology doctoral programs (including the different areas of research, funding, and admissions). We also provide opportunities for attendees to engage in Q&A sessions with current graduate students and faculty. 

This year we had 338 registered and over 130 attendees (136 in total). Because we send the recording to registered participants, folks who can’t attend due to conflicts or living in a different time zone can still access the event. Of the attendees who completed the post-event survey, most were largely unaffiliated with UW (94%) and they represented diverse racial and ethnic (18% Hispanic/Latine) identities, first-generation statuses, and range of current positions (see more details in charts below). 78% of participants identified themselves as women, and 18% reported that they would be international students. 

In the same post event survey, attendees left feedback that they enjoyed the chance to connect with faculty and grad students in breakout rooms the most. As a part of the event, we host area specific breakout rooms and allow for several minutes of Q&A with faculty and grad students and 15 minutes dedicated to Q&A without faculty present. This allows for current students to speak honestly about their experiences and for attendees to ask questions without the added pressure of faculty present. We are encouraged to find that all attendees indicated that they would likely recommend this event to others, and look forward to hosting this event next year. 

This year we are proud to have also provided attendees with a resource guide with comprehensive written answers to the most commonly asked questions – including answers from the administration, several faculty members, and current students. 

We encourage students of all academic stages who are interested in learning more about doctoral degrees in psychology, especially students who are planning on applying to graduate school this cycle, to attend this event. If you know of anyone interested in graduate school in psychology, please direct them to our website and to be on the lookout for the 2024 event! And if you’re interested in getting involved, please email me at lmgreen@uw.edu. 

This event would not be possible without those on the planning committee, and current faculty, staff, and graduate students who volunteer to present and answer questions! We are so grateful to all who contribute to our efforts to diversify our department and demystify the application process for applicants. 

On behalf of the DSC 2023 Virtual Recruitment Event subcommittee (thank you for your hard work!): 

Carol Y Lu  

Daniela E. Munoz Lopez

Ishaan Ambrish 

Caitlin Stavish

Chelsea Mackey 

Kimberly Bourne 

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