I’m incredibly honoured to receive the School of Psychology’s Anderson Prize for the best performing Level 3 Psychology student in the 2024–25 academic year. This award means a great deal to me, especially as it reflects the dedication and growth I’ve experienced throughout my degree so far.
One of the reasons I chose to study psychology is because of how deeply applicable it is to everyday life. The more I’ve learned during my time at university, the more I’ve come to see the world through a psychological lens. From understanding behaviours to uncovering the complexity behind what seems like simple cognitive or perceptual tasks, psychology constantly challenges the way I think. It’s a subject that never stops unfolding and that’s what I love most about it.
This past year, I’ve pushed myself to take full responsibility for my learning and to make the most of every resource and opportunity available to me. I’ve come to realise that everything I needed to succeed at university was already within reach. From the discussions in our tutorials to the academic experiences shared by staff. The key was learning how to engage with it all and apply it meaningfully. I’m especially thankful to be surrounded by professors and teaching staff who are truly passionate about their field. Their enthusiasm is infectious and constantly motivates me to stay curious and engaged.
Looking ahead, I’m excited for my final year thesis, which will explore prospective memory interventions in older adults. I hope this project not only builds valuable research skills but also gives me insight into clinical work, which I aim to pursue through postgraduate study and hands-on experience in the field.
Annabel will begin the fourth year of her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in September 2025.