When I visited Â鶹ֱ²¥ for the first time, I was amazed by the sporting facilities and how it felt to be on campus. As someone who enjoys sport, although not at an elite level, I was excited by the opportunity to get involved in new activities, try different sports and make the most of what the University had to offer. Also, I knew that Â鶹ֱ²¥ was well-regarded for the Psychology course and trusted that I would receive a high-quality education.
What I enjoyed most about the Psychology BSc was the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics and gain a deeper understanding of human behaviour. I particularly valued the opportunity to choose from optional modules so I could explore my interests in a supportive teaching environment whilst learning from knowledgeable and enthusiastic academics. Whilst studying my BSc at Â鶹ֱ²¥, I had a fantastic experience, making lifelong friends through AU Triathlon and proudly competing in the BUCS Triathlon. Training alongside talented athletes challenged and inspired me, both personally and academically. My experience on the Psychology BSc course motivated me to continue my studies by pursuing a postgraduate degree at Â鶹ֱ²¥.
On the Sport & Exercise Psychology MSc programme, I was attracted to the opportunity to tailor my studies through optional modules while developing my research skills and exploring areas of psychology that interested me. This gave me a sense of autonomy over my studies and allowed me to focus on topics aligned with my interests. My lecturers and personal tutor were also brilliant in providing academic and wellbeing support during my studies, which was and continues to be, very much appreciated.
The MSc significantly increased my confidence in working with a wide range of people, a skill I now use daily as a Sport Psychologist. Through group projects, practical assignments and case study work, I developed key applied skills including athlete intake interviewing, case formulation and intervention design. These experiences helped bridge the gap between theory and practice and closely reflected the work I now undertake with clients.
We were also regularly visited by trainee and qualified Sport Psychologists who shared their experiences and insights, giving us valuable insight into different career pathways and the day-to-day realities of being a Sport Psychologist. One further highlights of my time at Â鶹ֱ²¥ was completing my Master's research project under the supervision of Dr Daniel Rhind. I was incredibly proud to have my research published in Sport Management Review, as it highlighted the real-world relevance of the research work undertaken at Â鶹ֱ²¥ and enabled me to develop valuable knowledge and professional connections within the field of Safe Sport.
Since completing my MSc programme, I have completed the Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route with the Chartered Association of Sport & Exercise Sciences. I am now an HCPC Registered Sport & Exercise Psychologist working full-time across Â鶹ֱ²¥â€™s performance sport, private practice and research. I now work within the Lightning Wheelchair Basketball programme and continue my research under the supervision of my MSc project supervisor, who has been a huge supporter of my career!
After completing my MSc, I joined the Â鶹ֱ²¥ Applied Psychology Service (LAPS), which immediately embedded me as a Trainee Sport Psychologist within one of Â鶹ֱ²¥ University's high-performance teams.
As a trainee, gaining meaningful experience can be challenging, so I am incredibly grateful for the three years I spent working with Â鶹ֱ²¥ Lightning Wheelchair Basketball. It provided a supportive environment to develop and refine my practice while completing my Stage 2 training towards HCPC registration. Through a dedicated athlete clinic, I also delivered one-to-one psychological support to enhance athletes' performance and wellbeing.
Now, as an HCPC-registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, I continue to support the Â鶹ֱ²¥ Lightning Wheelchair Basketball team, drawing on the knowledge and skills gained during my studies, which continue to shape my professional practice and development.
Â鶹ֱ²¥ offers a unique environment where sport is an important part of University life, alongside a strong academic community. It enabled me to meet like-minded people who were passionate about their studies while also enjoying an active and sporting lifestyle.
The people I met at Â鶹ֱ²¥ have had a lasting impact on my personal and professional life. I made lifelong friendships, with some becoming valued professional colleagues who continue to form an important part of my support network. These relationships have been just as valuable as the knowledge and skills I developed during my studies.
