Third-year student Zoe Church shares a glimpse into their experience of studying BSc (Hons) Psychology at BSU.
Studying psychology is not limited to lecture content; it is also about navigating self-discovery and the challenges that come with it. I have thoroughly enjoyed the past three years here, so I thought I would take a moment to walk you through my experience at BSU.
My fascination with psychology began back when I was in college, where I took on the module for my A Levels. I was drawn to understanding human behaviour and what could influence the way we feel and act.
This led me to take on the BSc (Hons) Psychology degree at university.
My knowledge has ranged extensively across the years at university, from how stress can impact our physical health to forensic psychology ideologies behind the reasons people commit crimes. The broadness of content has been captivating, as every module has brought something new for me to learn.
As a third-year student, my weeks are filled with fewer seminars and lectures, yet these are more in-depth and collaborative than in previous years.
Considering I now only have university two days a week, I have more time dedicated to focusing on writing up my dissertation. In between lessons, and on the days that I do not have classes, I spend my time studying in Commons with my friends or at home with my house mates.
As well as this, I am part of the tennis society where we train twice a week and come together to socialise on a Wednesday evening. It is important to find a good work-social life balance to be able to thrive both academically and personally.
The best part of this course is how it encourages me to explore different pathways for my future.
When I started university, I was unaware of my future career ideation, which left me feeling uneasy about life post-graduation. However, my undergraduate degree has shown me that there are so many exciting avenues I want to explore; as such, I know that my area of interest is clinical and forensic psychology.
Following the footsteps of my father, I strive to work with the police to help rehabilitate offenders and have a positive impact on society.
Another part of this course which I thoroughly enjoyed was having the opportunity to go to London to visit Freud’s house with my clinical psychology class. Considering Freud had a huge contribution to psychology via his discovery of psychoanalysis, this was a truly exciting opportunity to learn about his life in the place he lived for his final years. It was such an enjoyable event, and it was definitely one of my favourite experiences during my degree.
I have also faced some challenges during my university journey. I am easily vulnerable to stress, so the daunting thought of assignments would predispose me to worry and panic.
Psychology is quite a demanding course where you are required to read extensive peer-reviewed journal articles and develop your critical thinking skills to adopt research to your understanding.
At times, I was pushed to my limits, as managing multiple deadlines in one week is difficult. However, I have learned that being pushed is rewarding as I have produced some of my best work here, which I am incredibly proud of.
One of the ways I have overcome my worries is through the strong support network at the university. I was easily able to communicate my worries to my lecturers, who offered me the best advice and feasible steps I could take.
Additionally, I have made some of the most incredible friends along my journey who I have shared classes with, and these people have truly fostered a positive university experience for me.
If I had to give myself a piece of advice before starting university, it would be not to hesitate to talk to new people.
I used to be shy and embarrassed when trying to talk to new people, but once I learned that everyone else is in the same boat as me, I quickly understood that it is okay to strike up a conversation in class. That is how I became close friends with the people in my course, and they have been my best of friends.
My social network has been fundamental to enjoying my university journey, therefore, I would heavily advise new students to spark up conversations with new people.
Another bit of advice would be not to be embarrassed to ask for help. Lecturers, academic advisers, and supervisors are available for support when you need them: their job is to make sure you can do the best you can whilst supporting your needs.
Over the years, their advice and feedback have been incredibly helpful and have supported me in ways that are best for me.
Being a psychology student at BSU has been an adventure of personal growth, self-reflection and learning.
As my studies progress, I become more excited for what my future holds and the opportunities that will arise. I look forward to taking on a postgraduate degree to further my fascination with psychology.