Case Study

I chose to study BSc (Hons) Clinical Psychology at Sunderland University as when I talked with friends who previously attended, it was clear that the University is a friendly place to study and had lecturers who would provide detailed assignment feedback. With over 20 years out of education, a friendly environment, with constructive feedback, and more was exactly what I needed to feel assured in returning to education as a mature student. 

Before I came to University, I was essentially a high school dropout, and by the age of 19, my first child was born. With the need to provide, I drifted into many different jobs over the years, such as working with people with disabilities, sports coaching, and general labour jobs. Eventually this led to dock work, which was physically intense with long shifts. At 35, my children were older and less financially dependent, and over the years, I had always enjoyed discussing various topics with people, and in doing so, became an approachable person, with people confiding in me about their very personal difficulties. In considering what I wanted to do, pursuing a career in clinical psychology would make use of my interpersonal skills and intellectual interests.

It’s hard to choose a favourite part of the course as there were so many interesting topics covered, and my lecturers always catered to my bombardment of questions. However, looking back, the thing I valued the most was just going to university, and talking with other students, lecturers, and café staff. One conversation could be polite weather talk, and the next you’re in the depths of philosophy, politics, NHS funding issues, or the pros and cons of Bayesian statistics. I have never been surrounded by people where such a scope of topic discussion was possible.  

My advice to prospective students would be to carefully consider what you want to study, as most of us will only study at graduate level once. Grades are important, and thinking tactically, such as picking the easiest assignment question, is something myself, and likely all students have done. The year three project is no different, you can tactically choose an easier project, or you can push yourself to do something you’re passionate about. From experience, such passion motivated me to work hard, and you may end up with a better, meaningful, and publishable study. Those insights will carry forward if you pursue the chosen topic at masters or PHD level. At the very least, you will have pushed yourself to the edge of your comfort zone, making substantial academic and personal growth. 

Since graduating, I have recently gained a full time position as a recovery coordinator, helping those suffering with mental health, drug, and alcohol problems. My long-term goal is to become a clinical psychologist, however, the path is very competitive, so I remain open minded to alternative roles, such as a mental health wellbeing practitioner. I have also discussed Honorary student status within Sunderland University and hope to become a small part of a larger research team. In addition, with the assistance of two University lecturers, my year three project is also in the process of being extended, an opportunity which I am very grateful for.

The key thing I learned at university that helps me in my work today was self-sufficiency in researching and properly interpreting evidence-based insights or solutions, as it has given me confidence to approach any issue I am unsure of.

If I could sum up my experience at the University of Sunderland, I would say that a great deal of personal and academic development was achieved. Many of the module topics were very interesting, leading to engaging group discussions. Each year, there were periods of high workload which was not always easy, yet the combination of approachable lecturers, constructive feedback, and a friendly supportive social environment helped me to maintain motivation and a solid work ethic."

Published 4 November 2024