Undergraduate profiles

What is your personal experience to date on your course and at the University?
I started my degree in October 2020 having left a job in TV Sports Broadcasting. It was during Covid and I had spent some time volunteering for the Samaritans which led to a change in focus and potential career change.  

 The first two years were challenging but I enjoyed the learning process and found the course fascinating.  

 Due to life events I then needed to take a 2-year break from study and returned part-time in September 2024. The balance of work and study proved challenging also, but I have no regrets and feel proud to have finally ended the course with hopefully a degree at the end of it.  

 Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university? 
I was a volunteer with the Samaritans until 2023. A very rewarding experience and the training was excellent and I may well return in the future.  

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
As a mature student who hadn’t written an essay since the mid 80’s I found it overwhelming at the beginning, but feedback from lecturers/personal tutors was invaluable. If you can afford to, become a full-time student. Part-time study is ok to an extent but the balance with working can be challenging.  

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University
The support of lecturers and making the most of all of the uni services such as the careers service in the library has been a massive help with getting the most out of my degree, and even though I had a gap year out before coming to uni, I found the transition out from sixth form smooth.  

  Over the course of my time at Aberystwyth University I’ve made decisions and met people that have changed the course of my life once I graduate. The skills and experiences I’ve had in my course have helped me to decide on my future career path (a PGCE in primary education, possibly followed by a masters in Clinical Psychology), and through my lectures and the societies I’ve joined I’ve made a strong group of friends and met my life partner. The experience of living away from home has been invaluable, and I love the vibe of the town in Aber (but especially the woodland trails and the pier!).  It’s been lovely living here, and I’m definitely going to miss it when I graduate this July! 

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university? 
There are lots of opportunities available for gaining work or voluntary experience, and I’ve done most of them! Over my three years in Aber I’ve been a Student Ambassador, a Peer Guide, and Academic Rep, a member of the Student Senedd through the students union, a society committee member, and head project leader for Aberystwyth Nightline. 

The careers service helped me with arranging work experience with a local school, and all my other experiences have either been run through the Psychology Department or the Students Union. Not only have I gained invaluable experiences, training, and evidence for my CV, but I’ve had a blast! From volunteer and committee events like the end of year celebrates party, to exclusive tours of the National Library, my volunteering has given me so many experiences and let me see sides of Aber I’d have never seen otherwise. I’d 100% recommend getting involved in at least one of the many projects around campus! 

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
My number one tip is turn up! Make the most of everything the uni has to offer, whether that’s getting to speak with lecturers in-person, the Gym and pool, the 24/7 library, or exploring the town and finding all the cool study and hangout spots. The students union and all the uni services are here for you, and for free! So make the most of them. Don’t feel bad asking for help, and don’t let being shy stop you from meeting people. The lecturers and support staff are here to help, and there are over a hundred societies and sports clubs so there’s definitely a group out there for you. One of the best choices I’ve made at uni was finally joining a society in second year, it helped me to make friends and meet people I’d never have come across otherwise!

Can you desctribe your personal experience on your course and at the University?
I began studying the psychology undergraduate degree in 2023, I was nervous because I hadn’t studied psychology at A level and didn’t know if I was going to be able to keep up. I was assured over the phone by the department head at the time that they make sure the course is accessible, but if I did have worries there was always a foundation course I could apply to as well. I decided to go straight for the undergraduate course and now am very glad that I did.  

 In my first year, I focused on being able to catch up to other students who had taken A Level psychology. My personal tutor was such a great support network, and when I voiced that I hadn’t written an essay since GCSEs, she advised me on books and websites that would help me. I remember being so worried when I got my first essay grade back in the Christmas time – only to find out I had managed to get a First. Surprising myself and reinstalling faith that I could do well; I spent the rest of my first year enjoying the lecture content and taking part in the pro’s of being a fresher.  

 Heading into my Second year, I knew this year would count towards my degree and I wanted to gain experience in the psychology field to narrow down what my interests were going to be in the future. I chose optional modules on what I thought I would find fun to learn about and developed my interests. I started to take an interest in Cognitive, Language and Developmental Psychology.  And as part of my push to gain experience, I took part in a free BSL course through the university. This let me meet a lot of new people and observe some of the language approaches I have learnt about take place.  

 After my second year, I decided to stay in Aberystwyth for the summer, the best time of year, whilst I was working in the local hospital. Through a friend on my course, I contacted the work placement lead at the hospital and gain some experience over the summer, where I realised that I loved developmental psychology and began looking into master’s courses. My third and final year came about much too quickly and has passed all too fast; on top of working alongside my studies, I found a volunteer group through the university societies page which focused on harm reduction from drugs and alcohol in the student community. Although I am now very close to finishing my studies, my course mates and I have talked about how sad we are to wave goodbye to Aberystwyth. The university has really allowed us to develop our interests in psychology, as well as grow into ourselves as adults. 

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university? 

I did two work placements whilst at university. For my first placement, I messaged the hospital work placement lead myself after one of my friends took part in the work placement module. I had a two-day experience in the Occupational Therapy department, one day seeing psychological and physical assessments on stroke patients and the other observing how accommodations were made for cardiac patients once they were ready to be discharged. Although the OT team was very welcoming and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing psychological practices in action, the experience made me realise I wanted to focus more on psychological therapies than occupational.  

 Then, for my second placement, I took part in a three-day experience on the children’s ward, shadowing a play specialist. Play specialist’s use play with children as a part of ensuring children feel comfortable within the hospital environment. This meant that we talked through how blood was going to be drawn with a 24-month-old child using dolls, and talked to a 5 year old about how the MRI machine worked using Lego. This confirmed my interest in developmental psychology as the differences in approach based on age was super interesting to me - I even got to meet a therapy dog called Milo!  

 After my placements, I knew I wanted to volunteer for the local community or university during my final year studies. I found New Narratives through the university societies page and emailed asking if I could join. Later in the year, I took training with a group of other new volunteers through the DDAS (Dyfed Drugs and Alcohol Service); after taking a drugs and behaviour module in my third year, it was interesting to see how research was adapted into community approaches. I volunteered to run their social media and help in-clinic for students to voice any concerns they had. This was enjoyable for my third year because it was flexible, and as a student led project, everyone had understanding about university work taking priority.  

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
My advice to future students would be: “be open to experience anything, even if it doesn’t seem interesting to you at the time”. Aberystwyth has countless opportunities if you reach out; their lifelong learning courses are free, and can add so much to your experience, the careers advice team are in constant contact for anything big or small and there are both student volunteer and local volunteer opportunities to take part in. There is no rush to know exactly where you’re going in first year, but you’ll never know if you don’t try a bit of everything! 

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University?
Studying Psychology with counselling at undergraduate level has been a really positive experience for me so far. I especially enjoy the counselling modules because they feel practical and relatable, and I’ve learned a lot about communication, mental health, and understanding people better. 

The lecturers have been very supportive and approachable in my experience, which made settling into university much easier. The university also has really good mental health support, including free counselling and career services for students, which I personally found very helpful. 

Outside of my course, I’ve enjoyed getting involved in university life. I became the president of the Aberystwyth Malaysian Society, joined the futsal team, and also volunteered as a listening volunteer with Nightline Aberystwyth. These experiences helped me meet new people, build confidence, and develop skills outside of the classroom. There are lots of fun societies and opportunities to get involved in, which I’d definitely recommend to new students. 

Another thing I love about studying in Aberystwyth is the environment itself. If you like a quieter seaside town with a small but close-knit community, Aber is definitely the place for you. The scenery and nature around the town make it a really relaxing place to live and study. 

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
40+ hours as a Nightline listening volunteer – student run service providing non-directive anonymous listening and emotional support via phoneline to university students  

 50+ hours as a hospitality assistant at Aberystwyth Uni, work includes: barista, food server, accommodation assistant, cleaning. 

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
Stay active, find your group, and push your comfort zone to try new things and utilise support systems such as your personal tutor. 

 There are also many secret places in Aberystwyth, you just have to explore a bit. 

Can you descrive you experience on your course and at the University?
It was the best experience of my education , broadening my horizons and proving that everything is possible, if you want it. 

I learned to think critically, which allows me to look at many aspects of science in a more intetesting way. 

I am 57 year old woman now and I am happy that I could fullfil my dream and learn the secrets of psychology.

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university? 
No

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 

I recommend Aberystwyth University as a very friendly and supportive place to study. Departament of Psychology is my absolutely favourite. 

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University
I decided to come to Aberystwyth after receiving a Merit Entrance scholarship for straight psychology, and I couldn’t be happier with choosing to come here. Everyone here is really passionate about learning, no matter the subject area, which makes it incredibly easy for me to feel motivated both inside and outside the lectures. It’s incredibly easy to get in touch with lecturers about anything, even if they seem trivial, and I’ve learnt so much about how to go about my work just from those chats.  

 I was lucky enough to find the global opportunities fair in my first semester and was able to start considering taking a year abroad to expand my studies. The process of switching degree schemes has been incredibly easy, and that was helped by both the global opportunities office and the year abroad coordinator in psychology, and now I can’t wait to expand my education in fields I never thought id study in again.  

 Over the past two years as an undergraduate student, I’ve been able to work as an ambassador for the department, which I’ve really been enjoying. I know that an experience with a department ambassador can really shape someone’s opinion of a university course, and so I hope that I can continue to promote the department to the best of my ability as its been such a lovely environment for me and I want to share that sentiment with future students.

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
I currently volunteer for the psychology department at Aberystwyth University on open and applicant days, which I have been thoroughly enjoying. Outside of that, I am a pastoral assistant for the National Youth Choir working on their summer and easter residential courses as overnight care and first aider, which allows me to develop new skills while working inside a choir I have been a member of since I was 9 years old. Finally, I have some shadowing work with an occupational therapist specialising in MS and stroke patients lined up for this summer before I leave for my year abroad, which I am hoping to use as a way to gain some hands-on pastoral experience and as an indicator as to whether this could be a potential career for me down the line.  

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
Look at the scholarships and bursary’s page – Aberystwyth has one of the best programs in the country and getting something like an unconditional offer can really take a weight off your shoulders before going into A-Levels. 

 Also, year abroad isn’t as expensive as you may think, and you may even be able to take a semester out if a year feels too long. Have a look online or chat with the global opportunities before coming here as they can properly talk you through everything you need to know, and they can even advise you on placements abroad if your interested in a year in industry.  

Can you describe your experience on your course an at the University?
Studying BSc Psychology with Forensic Psychology (C802) at Aberystwyth University since 2023 has been a rewarding and engaging experience. The course has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of criminal behaviour and the application of psychology in real-world contexts, while also strengthening my research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

I have particularly enjoyed exploring forensic psychology topics and applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. The supportive learning environment and approachable staff have contributed positively to my academic development and helped me grow in confidence throughout my degree.

Overall, my experience at university has been very positive, and the course has strengthened my interest in pursuing a career within psychology-related fields.

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
My time at university so far has been both rewarding and engaging. I have developed greater confidence in my academic abilities, alongside strengthening my research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. The supportive environment and approachable staff have contributed positively to my experience and helped me grow both academically and personally.

Alongside my studies, I have gained work experience as a Community Support Worker. This role has provided valuable insight into behaviour, mental health, and individual needs, allowing me to develop practical skills and apply my understanding in real-world settings.

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students?
Stay organised, engage with lectures and seminars, and make use of the support available within the department. Keeping up with reading and exploring areas of interest will help you gain the most from the course and develop valuable skills for future career opportunities.

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University?
Coming to Aberystwyth as an international student from India was a huge shift new country, new climate, and a completely different style of learning. The first few months felt overwhelming, but the close-knit feel of Aber and the genuine warmth of the Psychology department made settling in easier than I expected.

What’s stood out most has been the research opportunities. I spent a semester at Arizona State University, which pushed me to think about psychology in a more interdisciplinary way, and back at Aber I’ve worked on projects ranging from face expression categorisation to a current collaboration with Humboldt University of Berlin studying pupil dilation responses to music. None of this would’ve happened without lecturers who actually make time for students who want to get involved.

Outside of lectures, volunteering as a Patient Befriender on the Stroke Ward has probably been the most meaningful part of uni for me. It’s reminded me, again and again, why I want to work in psychology sitting with someone, listening properly, and being a calm presence really matters. I’ll leave Aber with a much clearer sense of where I want to go next.

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
Yes — I’ve been a Patient Befriender on the Stroke Ward at Bronglais General Hospital (NHS Wales) since November 2024, supporting patients through conversation and activities to ease isolation during recovery. I received a letter of commendation from NHS Wales in June 2025. I also completed a work placement on the Children’s Ward at Bronglais under a Registered Health Play Specialist in July 2025. Alongside this, I’ve done a few clinical psychology internships, and I’m a Psychology Department Ambassador, Peer Guide, and Academic Representative at Aberystwyth.

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students?

1. Get involved early the Ambassador and Peer Guide schemes in the Psychology department are a great way to meet people and feel part of something.
2. Volunteer in something you care about, it’ll teach you more than any module.
3. Don’t be scared to email lecturers, they’re far more approachable than you’d think and can open doors to research projects.
4. Use free academic resources to explore topics beyond your modules, great for your CV and for figuring out what you love.
5. Look after your mental health, especially around exam season Aber’s wellbeing services exist for a reason, use them.

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University?
Personally, my experience at Aberystwyth university as a whole has been outstanding! The opportunities I have had with studying at Aber and through my degree are really valuable and definitely made my experience here even better. The opportunities include being a Welsh academic representative, courses with the careers department (Flourish) and more. These have not only grown my confidence, but I have met new people along the way but being able to represent the Welsh language in my department has really been beneficial to me.

In terms of the Welsh language both Psychology and Criminology departments represent the Welsh exceptionally with dedicated seminars for Welsh students as well as fully fluent Welsh lecturers that are very supportive! This and being able to do my course work including my dissertation has been a very positive factor to me coming from an all-Welsh school and definitely made my academic experience here worthwhile.

As a joint honours student being able to combine both Psychology and Criminology concepts has been very interesting and insightful with both subjects giving me different perspectives to the course, and because of this I have definitely had the opportunity to explore a wide range of psychological and criminological topics. If anyone is thinking of doing a joint honours degree, I would definitely tell you to go for it! Being able to meet students in the two subjects and being involved in two departments really gives you the best of both worlds!

It is very true when someone tells you to take every opportunity, and I would encourage anyone to do this! I definitely without a doubt wouldn’t have made the connections and had the opportunities if I hadn’t of ‘put myself out there’- so I’d say go for it- take any opportunity that comes your way!

I’m not sure if you’d want this but here is a list of the opportunities I have had whilst being here!

• Tystysgrif Sgiliau Iaith/ Welsh language skills certificate
• Flourish (Series of workshops with the Careers department)
• Welsh academic representative Psychology Department
• Bsc 2^nd/3^rd year Criminology representative
• Lifelong learning Stress Management course
• Career Readiness Programme

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
If yes, can you say a little bit about your experience and who you are volunteering for?

Yes, I have completed a variety of volunteering work with the NHS primarily at Bronglais hospital. I found that my timetabling worked well with volunteering once a week, and it also gave me an opportunity to take a break from my coursework. 

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students? 
Apart from the ones mentioned in the paragraphs some tips I would give: 

• Don’t be afraid to actually talk to people/ other students in the first week- they are probably feeling alone/ shy/ lost too. 

• If in doubt email about any course questions before coming to Aber- everyone is very helpful! 

• Make the most of your time here it really does go by quickly! 

• Don’t put too much pressure on yourselves- go out enjoy the prom, Aber really is a good night out as well make the most of it! 

• Welsh students: the Coleg Cymraeg and the University offer money for doing modules in Welsh- keep on eye out for this information in your first few weeks. 

•  If you’re looking to do a course whilst you’re here I would really recommend looking at lifelong learning they offer free courses to students.  
• Use the careers service- they’re great! 

Can you describe your experience on your course and at the University?
My years spent as a student at Aberystwyth University has been life-changing, the opportunities to learn along likeminded individuals and to learn from lecturers has been a great experience.

The courses have been interesting with each module leaving me wanting to research further on topics covered in lectures, especially the counselling module.

The coursework at times can be stressful but it’s the type of stress that has pushed me to keep trying and wanting to do better, I really liked the engagement between lecturers and students, I have never been made to feel stupid if I didn’t understand concepts and have always been met with patience and understanding, which has helped me a lot especially during second and third year.

The facilities at the university have been invaluable, having access to the library 24 hours daily has been a massive relief to me, knowing that there’s a space to go to if I don’t feel like I can do my work from my accommodation. One area I found mildly frustrating was that the second floor in the library isn’t open 24 hours only the first floor, which at times I found overcrowded especially during exam season.

Are you doing any voluntary work/work experience during your time at university?
No

Can you suggest a few hints and tips to future students?

The main bit of advice I’d like to emphasise to future students is to take advantage of the opportunities your course and lecturers are providing you with. The number of times I have emailed, asked after lectures, or scheduled meetings with my lecturers, personal tutor, career advisors etc. have been a tremendous help with me managing my anxiety, getting answers to things I may feel unsure about. Another thing to remember is that the university is not a judgemental place, you will never be turned away for whatever your concern may be whether it seems insignificant or insignificant, you will always be treated with respect, so I would just say no matter what you’re thinking or feeling, the people around you care about enriching your experiences.

Secondly, from my experience, preparing before lectures i.e. making notes beforehand goes a long way! To save speed-typing during lectures when you prepare ahead of them you have time to make further notes and elaborations on topics you aren’t 100% sure of without becoming out-of-step with the pace of the lecture.