I chose to study Psychology at Sheffield because of the placement opportunities

What made you decide to study in Sheffield?

A big part of why I decided to study in Sheffield was because this University offers an opportunity to do a year of industry. I knew this would be such a great opportunity to go out and experience psychology in a working environment. In addition, I also love Sheffield as a city as it has so much going on, however, it is somewhere that I always feel very safe too. 

What are you enjoying the most about the course?

I have most enjoyed learning about developmental psychology, this is not something that I had covered in A-levels, so being able to learn about something I am very interested in has been a great experience. 

What skills have you developed during your course?

I have learnt vital skills of organisation through my course. I now focus on tasks with a planned and structured approach, which bests suits my learning.

Where are you on placement and what is your role?

I am on placement at Lundwood Medical Centre in Barnsley working as an Associate Psychologist. 

What sort of things are you doing on your placement?

On my placement I have had opportunities to shadow CBT, Psychodynamic, and occupational therapy sessions. I have helped facilitate group therapy sessions, gone on home visits, and have taken part in active research and record keeping. I have also had the opportunity to work one-on-one with patients using psychoeducation techniques. 

What skills have you learnt from your placement?

My placement has taught me how to be more confident and assertive in a work environment, as it has allowed me to put into practice what I learnt from my first two years at university.

Furthermore, I developed skills of working with others. I worked as part of a multi-disciplinary team in the NHS, which involved working with a range of professionals, all with different skills and expertise.  

What have you enjoyed most about the placement year?

I have most enjoyed having the opportunity to help others in the community, it has been challenging at times but a very rewarding experience.

How do you think the placement year will help your career?

I believe having this year on placement will really help me with my career after university. This is because it has allowed me to develop a range of skills and experiences that I would not have been able to gain through a lecture. It has also allowed me to think about the career that I want and has given me more motivation to achieve it.

What would you say to a prospective student considering studying psychology at Sheffield?

The University of Sheffield provides a unique opportunity to do a year in industry as part of your degree. This was one of the reasons I chose Sheffield and it has been an incredible learning opportunity for me.