Emma - Psychology and Occupational Psychology

At school, I studied psychology A-Level. My interest in the subject grew quickly and I chose to study it at degree level. I came to a UWE Bristol Open Day because of the University’s excellent reputation for the subject. I was really struck by the passion and dedication of the Psychology teaching team I met that day and by the range of modules that were available to study.

The structure of my undergraduate degree meant I was exposed to a range of psychology areas. In the second year, I did a placement as a Research Assistant where I carried out standardised tests, had insight into the preparation of data and the analysis of results. It was really useful to have developed these skills so I could apply them when designing my own research studies in the third year and during my MSc.

In my third year I chose to study a Psychology of Work module which really cemented my decision that Occupational Psychology was the field I wanted to pursue a career in. The great experience I had during those three years made my decision to study an MSc in Occupational Psychology at UWE Bristol very easy.

Studying for my Masters

Initially, I was worried that I may feel isolated because of the small amount of contact time, but I needn’t have done. I had excellent support from the teaching staff and the face-to-face sessions were really beneficial. The small cohort meant that we all became very close and as I learnt essential skills to help me pursue my career, I also made friends for life.

As part of the Masters, I secured a work placement with an Occupational Psychology consultancy where I was responsible for conducting data analysis on their leadership and engagement measures. I learnt essential skills that will be beneficial in my career and I got a valuable insight into the consultancy environment.

It was such a proud moment when my cohort and I graduated at Bristol Cathedral last summer – we all knew how much hard work and commitment it had taken to get to that point.

Starting my career

I now work as an Assistant Psychologist for an Occupational Psychology consultancy which aims to empower employees with dyslexia and other neurological differences and to help them fulfil their potential. I have had to quickly adjust to working to very tight deadlines, but it has taught me to not be afraid of the unknown and to embrace new opportunities. I feel privileged to be in a role where I can contribute to making work a more positive and empowering place to be and in a field that I am extremely passionate about.