Graduate Academic Assistant, Middlesex UniversityI chose Middlesex University because it was one of the few University's that offered the combined Sociology with Psychology undergraduate degree and the module components looked really interesting with a nice combination of sociology and psychology. Another reason was that the campus was located so close to central London.
I would advise new students to really do your research on the degree programme you are going to study and ask lots of questions! Getting the right combination of subjects was really important to me and there are so many people on hand to give you advice. Also, take advantage of the groups and forums for new students as making friends and asking questions about what to expect makes the first days and weeks much less intimidating.
The most defining memory I have so far at Middlesex University is the day I was able to put on my gown and mortarboard and walk across the stage with all of my friends and family around me and graduate.
I most enjoyed the variety of modules I was able to take at undergraduate level. As I studied a combined degree Sociology with Psychology I had a perfect mix of modules and some I was able to choose.
I chose Middlesex University for my postgraduate study as the MSc Psychology Conversion course had just gained BPS (British Psychological Society) status which meant upon completion I could register as a graduate member of the society – I can now put MBPsS after my name! The next step is hopefully chartered psychologist status which I wouldn't have been able to do if I had not gained the BPS status at Masters level.
During my Masters, the most important thing I learnt was the career path I wanted to spend the rest of my life following. Studying Psychology at a higher level confirmed to me the passion I had for the subject and also the topic I now study for my PhD. My goal now is to finish my PhD and continue in research and academia.
I decided to study for my PhD at Middlesex as my topic area, trolling, is very new and where I looked at this at Masters level I was able to spark the interest of my supervisor who now also researches trolling. My supervisor was key to my choice because of her knowledge during my Masters and the interest and dedication she had shown, all of which I knew would be of great benefit to me during my studies.
A typical day as a graduate academic assistant consists of checking and responding to student emails. Then usually I have a class or two to assist in, I mostly help on the research methods modules so this is all SPSS and statistics! I also run drop-in classes and tutorials for students so most days I have students to see!
Hopefully a long and successful career in research and academia!
I think my advice would be choose a subject you love as the passion will help you through the tougher times! Also, make sure you look at what modules you will be studying and how much choice you get as this can be key to your success.
