I decided to apply to XXX University for several reasons. I am attracted to XXX University by the
strong emphasis on research and methodology. Particularly, the strong preventive focus of the Child
Clinical area of emphasis is one that meshes well with what I am looking for in a program. In
researching XXX University, the work of Drs. XXX and XXX particularly piqued my interest. I
worked with XXX at XXX University, who exposed me to much of Dr. XXX's work on children of
alcoholics. I would be interested in further pursuing work in risk factors for substance abuse,
particularly looking at how familial and social context affect risk behaviors. Dr. XXX' research in
risk and resilience and her prevention work with high risk adolescents is very much what I am
interested in doing, as I not only have research experience but the clinical work with similar
populations to what Dr. XXX' is working with.
The Clinical Psychology program at XXX University has everything I am looking for in a program,
just as I feel I have what XXX University should be looking for in an incoming student. I would be
very excited to join the incoming class at the XXX University for 2000. I feel I am well prepared to
enter graduate study, and my strong motivation and career goals are a good match for what XXX has
to offer.