What are you currently doing and who are you working for? Can you give a brief description of what you did from graduation up to now?
"The course provided me with a wide range of research and analytical skills that I was able to apply to a range of professional jobs since leaving university."
I am currently working as a research associate in Addictions for Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust. After graduating from University I started working as an analyst for an investment bank but did not find the job fulfilling so decided to pursue a career in Psychology. After a year of voluntary work I decided to come back to The University of Birmingham to complete a master’s in Clinical Psychology. The course strengthened my research background and provided me with more experience to apply for both clinical and research jobs.
Can you give a short outline of the course you studied at the University of Birmingham and how it benefited you?
I completed a BSc in Psychology with honours at the University, which was a three year programme. The first two years consisted of set modules and in the final year we were able to select our own modules and complete a large research project. Furthermore, over all three years we were required to complete statistic modules. The course provided me with a wide range of research and analytical skills that I was able to apply to a range of professional jobs since leaving university.
How did you find your first year in Birmingham?
My first year as an undergraduate was fantastic; everyone was very friendly and approachable, it was easy to navigate my way through campus and the shops and bars were nearby.
How did going to University as a whole benefit you?
University helped me both personally and professionally. I made lifelong friends, developed a highly versatile skill set, which I have applied to every role I have undertaken since leaving University. Furthermore, during both my degrees at University I was able to work alongside and conduct research with leading professionals in specialised areas of Psychology.
How did you find campus life? Can you describe how it was to study here at Edgbaston Campus rather than in a City Centre location?
The Edgbaston campus has a community feel and although it is not in the city centre, the centre is very close by and easily accessible by car, train or bus.
How did you find living in Birmingham? Was it how you expected it to be? Did you find the student community here supportive?
I commuted into Birmingham so didn’t actually live on campus although a lot of my friends did and found it to be a positive experience.
Did you join any student societies or take part in any events during your studies?
I joined a few societies during my time at university; it’s a great way of meeting new people and trying new activities.
Any tips or words of wisdom that you would like to pass on to other students thinking of coming to study here?
The University of Birmingham is a great place to study, the campus location is perfect, the staff and other students are very friendly. I really enjoyed my experience at the University which was part of the reason I came back a few years later to do a masters.
What are your aspirations for the future?
To continue to develop professionally and work in a role underpinned by psychological frameworks, either in a clinical or research post. Furthermore, I would also like to continue pursing my interest in travelling.