Sheffield is lively and vibrant with loads of things to do

After doing my undergraduate degree in the UK, I knew I wanted to stay

After doing my Bachelor of Psychology degree in London I fell in love with the UK. Therefore, it was a no-brainer that I would stay here. However, I wanted to explore more of the UK, live somewhere more affordable and Sheffield provided the course that I liked the most which is why I ended up moving.

I am gaining valuable practical skills for my future career

When researching my course in various universities, the University of Sheffield stood out to me. This is due to the course description placing high emphasis on the practical components of each module. That gave me confidence in being able to transfer my knowledge into practice after I am done with this course. I have found this to be true and therefore am really happy with my decision.

Unlike in my undergraduate degree, the assignment briefs are very concise and leave space for creativity but can also be very challenging at the same time. Therefore we all tackle the assignments in a unique way. This has helped me develop problem solving, critical thinking and researching skills.

The accreditation was definitely very important for me. Not only is the school triple accredited but my course also has BPS accreditation. I also read positive testimonials of previous students and researched some of the positions Sheffield University Management School alumni hold. All of this was enough to persuade me that this is a place for me.

The BPS accreditation will held me achieve my goals

In my undergraduate degree I really enjoyed my Business Psychology module and therefore aimed to specialise in this area. I wanted to become a chartered occupational psychologist and I will not be able to get this title without a BPS accredited Occupational Psychology degree.

The University was very helpful in supporting me to adjust to the new city

My main cause of stress was moving on my own. I knew no one in Sheffield prior to my move and wondered how long the adjustment period would be. However the University offered a lot of resources for students who recently moved. From offering activities to meet new people to providing information, I found the university to be very helpful during this period.

I have made brilliant friends on my course. The team building experience in Peak District and the sense of togetherness we felt after completing our presentations are things I am grateful for.

Sheffield is lively and vibrant with loads of things to do

It is too difficult for me to pick one thing I love the most about Sheffield so I will name three instead. First is that the city is very lively and vibrant with loads of things to do. Secondly, I love how walkable the city is. I rarely use public transport because of how convenient it is to walk and how beautiful the scenery is while walking. Last is nature, Sheffield offers an amazing mix of city life and greenery.

Extracurricular activities are helping me feel integrated in the city

When I moved to Sheffield, I was eager to gain new experiences since this is my last year studying. I currently work as a front of the house assistant at a theatre and as a postgraduate student ambassador for the Management School. Apart from this I am a part of the Women in Business Society and Book Society. I find these experiences to help me develop new skills, be more integrated in the city and help take my mind off the university workload. Being able to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritise tasks are skills that I believe will help me in my future career the most.

I am excited to see what the future holds

I am confident that doing a masters was a good choice for my future career. It opens a variety of doors for me whether I want to focus on general HR, recruitment, training, or research, as after I am done with the degree I will be quite knowledgeable in all of these areas. Since my last year of my undergraduate degree I knew that I wanted to be a chartered occupational psychologist and I will not be able to get that title without a masters degree.

I am hoping to work in a field related to my studies whether that is training, consulting or research. So far I do not have my mind made up yet, as I am excited about studying the modules in the second semester before making any decisions.

My advice for future students

Try not to get discouraged by the workload or grades. I found that the expectations of me changed in this masters degree compared to the undergraduate one and felt overwhelmed during the second half of the semester. It is important to remind yourself that you’ll get through the assignment season just like you did plenty of times before and one bad grade does not shape your capabilities. The content is incredibly engaging and interesting and the final outcome will be worth your hard work.