My start in Aberdeen was unconventional – I became one of the first and few students who were allowed direct entry to the second year of the programme. I transferred from a Welsh to a Scottish institution, which took some adjusting, both academically and personally. However, I had already overcome the challenge of moving from Poland to the UK a year prior, so I eased into the Aberdeen life fairly smoothly and became open to whatever the new chapter of my educational journey would bring.
When I heard about the Anderson prize at the beginning of the third year, I was extremely doubtful such an achievement could be within my reach. I am humbled by this honor and I would like to give great thanks to the School of Psychology for recognizing the hard work of its’ students and for navigating these post-lockdown times so skillfully.
The year featured demanding, but fascinating essay topics that helped me significantly develop and showcase my academic writing abilities. The group research projects – besides providing an opportunity to put my methodology knowledge into use – fostered teamwork and communication. While co-coordinating the Aberdeen University branch of Nightline, the student helpline, I practiced active listening and came across a diverse range of individual struggles. I confirmed my conviction that my future lies in becoming a clinical psychologist, as I would love to combine the production of quality research with applying the theoretical knowledge in therapy.
Lastly, the demands of L3 exercised my time-management skills and boosted my confidence, as I learned how to accommodate studying full-time, working as a support worker and being actively involved in a student society. I would not be able to do this without the support from my family, for which I am forever grateful.
Hanna is studying MA Psychology with Counselling Skills
