I was lucky as I enjoyed all my subjects equally at College – the hardest thing for me was deciding what to study at university. The support from my Psychology teacher helped to give me the information and confidence that I needed about studying Psychology as an undergraduate degree and helped me realise I wanted to continue with this journey. My only sadness is that due to the pandemic, my social time at College was rather different than I’d hoped for in terms of the availability of clubs and activities.

Currently in my final year of study at Cardiff University, I’ve just finished an incredible placement year within the Haematology Psychology Team at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals Trust in London. Here, I had the opportunity to learn more about clinical work first-hand, which in turn helps me decide the next steps for my career pathway. Competition is tough for these placements, and I’m proud that I was one of only two applicants interviewed from more than 50 who applied.

Part-time I also work at the YMCA as a Senior Playworker, as it’s a great way to put psychological principles into practice, working with children with difficult backgrounds and additional needs.

I’m looking forward to my final year very much, especially learning more about my favourite areas: clinical and health psychology.

For any students who are thinking about studying Psychology at uni I’d say do your research early! When I started at Cardiff I was rather unaware that there were different types of psychology degrees out there. My course is quite research-heavy, but others are more application focused. Personally, I’m glad I’ve done a research-focused course, but it isn’t for everyone. If you are keen to practice as a Psychologist in future, your degree needs to be accredited by the professional body – the British Psychology Society (BPS). I’d also recommend looking into the specific modules that you’ll study so you know it will fit with your interests.

Annalise Downs

Reigate College: 2019-2021

Higher education: Psychology BSC (with Professional Placement), Cardiff University