Getting into Princeton with a non-traditional background

Colleges and Universities A-Z Princeton University
1

I’m interested in getting into Princeton I don’t have a traditional background, and I wanted to know what my options would be

My notable credentials:

After college, I started a beauty products company which I have netted around $300k profit over 3 years (I’m 24 now)

I have trained over 100 people entrepreneurs start and scale their companies, of which they make from $3k - $30k/month with over a dozen people making more than $10k/month

I’ve worked along side my friend (who is a UX researcher at Facebook) and we spent time together on several projects that needed good understanding in marketing and psychology (which I was able to help him with). This we spent maybe ~60 hours together.

However,
I’m currently interested in changing paths getting a PHD in some types of psychology. I have self-studied psychology by myself for the past 6-7 years (have read like ~100 books in this area). I mostly studied developmental psychology, positive psychology and self-actualization. I wanted to get a PhD and do research in this area

My gripe though is, in college I held a 3.0 GPA (I was not passionate about my major - economics and my dad made me take it) and I had a GPA of 3.0. I had 2 internships at small companies doing miscellaneous computer science things (jobs given by friends and family).

I do believe I have the competence to achieve most credentials but I’m not exactly sure what I need to do to get in.

Can someone help with any resources to look at, or tips on what I’d need to do to get in?

2

If you’re truly interested in pursuing graduate school - and, from what you’ve posted, it sounds like you already have a bachelor’s degree - the thing to start with is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). You can purchase the practice books online. FWIW, I don’t think it will be easy gaining admission to a doctoral program with no prior coursework in the subject, but, I’m sure it’s been done, even if it means broadening your search. I’d also take a look at the CC graduate school forum for tips: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/graduate-school/

3

There are tons of colleges that can help you get where you want to go…there is no reason to fixate on Princeton.

Also it may be difficult to get into a direct entry PhD program with no formal education/research experience in the field. You may consider applying to some Masters programs as well.

Agree with the GRE as being a logical first step in the process.