Chloe Severy-Sanders

PsyD in Clinical Psychology program (3rd year), Fresno campus

Q: What inspired you to choose Alliant?

A: I was inspired to apply to Alliant for its emphasis on cultural diversity and the forensic emphasis in the program, both in the courses and the practicum placements it offered.

Q: How has Alliant supported you in your program?

A: I have been extremely supported by the faculty and I've been able to build great, close relationships with my chair and the program director and other faculty members because of the smaller unit.

Q: How about the dissertation process? How has that experience been at Alliant? 

A: I have received a lot of support from my chair as well as my committee member. Having courses in which you are provided guidance throughout your dissertation process has been helpful and my chair is always available as well. I felt supported throughout my dissertation process and encouraged to reach out with any questions or concerns about the process.

Q: Can you talk about working with your cohorts and building those relationships and community?

A: I think it's almost inevitable, especially beginning in your first year. You're all going through similar kinds of difficulties while you navigate your first year of a doctoral program, so you need that support to rely on. It’s a great having people there who can understand and empathize with you about what what's going on.

Q: What advice would you give someone entering the field of psychology or entering this program at Alliant?

A: Being open minded is really important because you might go in thinking you want to go in a certain route but there's just so many different opportunities and practicum placements that I never thought I would be interested in had I not tried them out, so being open minded in that way is important.