I am honoured to have received the Henry Prize for highest marks in the Final Honours examination for the School of Psychology, and the British Psychological Society’s Undergraduate Award. With my graduation fast approaching and the intimidating world of graduate employment looming on the horizon, finding these email in my inbox was a pleasant reprieve.
I have enjoyed all of my four years at University of Aberdeen, but fourth year was made special by being able to work on my own project - my thesis on the relationship between autistic traits, ADHD traits, stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I found that while ADHD traits did predict Irritable Bowel Syndrome severity in my sample, autistic traits and stress did not. Taken in the context of the wider literature on Irritable Bowel Syndrome, this is a very interesting finding that I am hoping to explore in more depth in the future. My thesis project allowed me to work on a topic I am passionate about, and build technical skills that will be useful for a future career in research.
My undergraduate degree was a wonderful experience, in large part because of the amazing School of Psychology staff. I am very grateful to all lecturers, tutors, and other staff that supported me on my journey, and I am especially thankful to my thesis supervisor Dr Zeshu Shao.
As many graduates, I am worried about my future in an uncertain job market, and more broadly in a world that seems to grow more fearful and hateful with each passing day. Looking ahead, there are many paths available to me: I am considering finding work experience in market research, working as a research assistant, or going back to university for postgraduate Masters study and perhaps eventually a PhD. However, as I am deciding on what to do next, I am also reflecting on what a privilege it was to be able to fulfil my natural curiosity and satisfy my ambition by studying an undergraduate degree.
The School would like to congratulate Barbora on her graduation and wish them the very best in the future!
