Join as Grad Student

Dr. Veilleux will be reviewing applications for a new graduate student to begin Fall 2024.

The University of Arkansas Clinical Training Program operates from a mentorship model, within an overall scientist-practitioner model of clinical training (Information about the clinical training aspect of the program can be found in the description of the Clinical Program ). Dr. Veilleux looks for these things in a prospective graduate student applicant:

  1. Interest in the topics under study in the Treating Emotion and Motivational Processes Transdiagnostically (TEMPT) laboratory. Right now she is particularly interested in students who wish to focus on emotional processes  (including emotion regulation and/or the role of emotion in self-regulation) that are relevant to clinically significant dysfunction. 
  2. Interest in a wide variety of methods–we use ecological momentary assessment (EMA), laboratory experimental designs, individual difference studies, and mixed methods (qualitative/quantitative) in this lab.
  3. Prior research experience (experience with emotion or self-regulation, substance use, eating or self-harm research is appreciated but not required).
  4. Curiosity about dynamic social-cognitive processes and interest to learn basic laboratory research.
  5. Critical thinking skills and the ability to generate independent research ideas.
  6. Note: A willingness to devote energy to research endeavors during graduate school is important. A career goal as a traditional academic is truly not required, though it should be noted that the program has a heavy emphasis on research, and students who cannot see themselves happily engaged in research production and dissemination during graduate school may wish to look elsewhere.
  7. Appreciation for and willingness to accept (and give) direct feedback.  Ask any of the current grad students and they will tell you that Dr. Veilleux provides a lot of feedback.  The intention of this feedback is to facilitate growth–we know that people start grad school at different places, and may not know much about academic writing, generating a masters thesis proposal, using SPSS, etc.  Lack of knowledge is fine, but an ability to take and use feedback is essential to being successful in this lab. Similarly, Dr. Veilleux wants to continue growing as a scholar and a mentor, and wants to practice what she preaches, so *giving* honest feedback is also valued in this lab.
  8. Appreciation for silliness and goofiness. We like to laugh, run through puddles, talk about our cats as our babies, dance to Baby Got Back, listen to true crime on tape, and debate about Star Wars.  We work hard, and we also like each other as people.

Expectations/Opportunities:

  • TEMPT graduate students are encouraged to present their work at conferences and submit papers to scientific journals
  • TEMPT graduate students are likewise encouraged to apply for awards, grants and fellowships
  • TEMPT graduate students will be expected to take leadership roles in the operation of the lab, including mentorship of undergraduates.
  • In addition to research opportunities, professional development (career options, statistical training, ethics and consultation) is an important part of TEMPT

Please note that it is a serious pet peeve of Dr. Veilleux’s to get emails asking if she is taking a student next year when that information is clearly posted on this website.  If you are getting advice to email prospective faculty to ask about taking a student and to send your CV, please reconsider following that advice.  When Dr. Veilleux sees one of these emails, she thinks “This is someone who hasn’t actually looked at my website” or “Why did I bother posting this information on my website if people are just going to email me anyway?”  Sending an email in advance doesn’t improve your chances of getting an interview!  Now, if you have a substantive question about Dr. Veilleux’s work or upcoming projects, please feel free to email with a question.  If you’d just like to introduce yourself and tell her that you look forward to applying, that’s also fine–because that kind of email does not require a response.  She loves getting those kinds of emails!  But please don’t request a response for a question that is findable on this website or on the department website.