Delaney Gilman

PhD in Clinical Psychology
CSPP at Alliant International University, Fresno

Q: What inspired you to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology? 

A: I knew what I wanted to do since I was a junior in high school. I actually had a professor from Alliant come into one of my classes and share his experience as a psychologist, specifically working in forensics, and that really interested me. Being able to help people in an underserved population and working in forensics seemed really interesting to me. So, from my junior year in high school, I started down that road in my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist.

Q: Why did you choose Alliant over other schools?

A: I grew up in Fresno and when I was at Fresno State, there was a representative that came in and talked to our class, and she spoke very highly about Alliant. Later, I found out I had a family friend that actually went through the program too. Being able to stay close to family and hearing about how great the program was from a former student was all very helpful in making my decision to come here.

Q: Are there things that you found special or unique that were helpful for you in the program?

A: The program director was a huge reason why I wanted to go to Alliant. She has been awesome and walks alongside us. Being able to work so closely with the professors and the different core faculty has also been great. They really want you to succeed and they create an environment where you can succeed and where you can reach out to them for extra help if you need it. You don't feel like you have to go through it on your own. I also like that it was a small cohort of ten other people which has been very supportive.

Q: Was there anything that surprised you about the program? 

A: I was surprised by how well I got to know my professors even though it was a big reason why I wanted to go to Alliant. They talked a lot about how you get to work closely with them, but I feel like a lot of places say that and then you get there and you're on your own. When you first start, you have to meet regularly with the program director. I was also surprised about how supportive they are about checking in on you; not just how you're doing in school, but they want to know how you're doing in life. If you’re struggling on the outside, they want to help you. It’s an all-around support for you and wanting to be there for you that is really special.

Q: Is there anything else you want to share about your experience so far at Alliant?

A: Some of the clubs are very cool. I was in the Fresno Global Initiative club where I got to do some community service projects and help other people. You don't really think about doing that when you're going to grad school, but being able to serve in other places takes your mind off of the craziness that is grad school and grounds you a little bit.

Q: What tips would you give to someone who is considering a doctorate in clinical psychology?

A: I would just say to really get involved because that’s been a big thing that has helped me. I would encourage students to jump in and take the help when it's offered. I know it can be scary when you're a first-year student and these are doctors that are teaching you, but they do want to help you, so take it. Also, wherever you go to school, ask questions. Like I said earlier, the program director and all the other faculty at Alliant are awesome so if you do end up going to Alliant, reach out to them with any questions that you have and get involved with your cohort because they're the people that are going to be with you and support you for the entire time. It seems really scary but it's one of the best things that I've done.