Despite my research experience, graduate training, teaching, clinical exposure, and professional background, my associate degree GPA from when I was 16 really hurt my application cycle.

That is hard to admit.

Because on paper, I know many people would assume my cycle was more successful than it actually was. I had research experience. I had a master’s-level background. I had a clear interest area. I had worked hard to build a profile that showed growth, maturity, and readiness for doctoral-level work.

But old grades still mattered.

And because of that, my application cycle was not as straightforward or successful as people might assume from the outside.

That is one of the most frustrating lessons I learned in the process: old transcripts can still carry weight, even when they do not tell the full story.

After my TikTok on private student loans went viral, I realized many future psychologists were asking the same questions. Let's break down the facts beyond the headlines.

After declining Columbia’s psychology MA program, I reflected on the academic advice that helped me make peace with the decision. My supervisor reminded me to look beyond prestige and ask a harder question: what is the step after this step?

I got into Columbia’s psychology master’s program — and I declined their offer. For a long time, I thought an Ivy League acceptance would give me the validation, access, and security I had been chasing. But after admitted students day, hard conversations about funding, and a lot of reflection, I realized I had to choose the path that actually aligned with the psychologist I want to become.

Applying to doctoral programs in psychology is expensive, emotional, and deeply humbling. After applying to 22 programs, receiving 2 interviews, and earning 1 offer, I learned lessons I wish someone had told me earlier. From applying broadly and asking for fee waivers to staying off Reddit and understanding how old grades can follow you, this post reflects on what I wish I knew before beginning the process.

I did not choose psychology because I had everything figured out. I chose it because I kept asking why: why people become who they are, how early experiences shape us, and what helps people heal. In this post, I share the story behind The Budding Psychologist, my journey as a first-generation student and researcher, and why I created this space for students navigating psychology, graduate school, and higher education.