BSc (Hons) Psychology
In his four years at UCLan studying Psychology BSc (Hons), Robert Teare has managed to achieve quite a lot. From presenting in front of a lecture theatre of potential students to working exclusively with a lecturer on a project, it has been quite a ride as his time here begins to draw to a close.
“During my time at UCLan I have been involved in many projects,” he started. “I’ve worked at the Lancashire Science Festival, I’ve had roles as a Student Ambassador, as well as a Research Assistant for public engagement amongst other things. I’ve also given student experience talks, plus being a Peer mentor for students who are struggling with university life.
“One of the best opportunities I found during my time at UCLan was the Dean’s list, achieving 70% grade in your first year means you could work closely with a lecturer on their own project. I had the chance to work with Dr Anja Fischer on a fascinating project on illness anxiety.
“For the placement module I started a Lego-based therapy after-school club, working with autistic children to increase social interaction and communication. It was very rewarding but stressful. I recruited three other students to volunteer as facilitators after completing a two-day training course from Bricks for Autism, provided by AS-UK. I created a training for course for the volunteers and found a venue to host the club. The cohort was very challenging and provided a lot of information for the next cohort.
“[I’m also proud of] standing up and talking to a lecture theatre full of prospective students for the first time, feeling nervous but actually enjoying the rush of adrenaline as you start your talk.”
Like others who’ve studied Psychology at UCLan, Robert can’t speak highly enough of the course programme and the freedom that it gives the students to explore and develop.
With that alongside the high-class teaching and facilities on offer at the University, he believes that he has had the best possible chance to get the most out of his ability.
“The flexibility of the course really attracted me to study at UCLan, being able to try a little bit of everything before committing to one route,” he continued. “No one really knows what they are going to be doing in three years, so having the flexibility to change and come out with a degree that I am actually going to be able to use was important.
“Plus, the facilities are amazing. The social spaces and sports centre are great places to meet and catch up. The student labs are great to book with friends and work together on your assignments, no distractions.
“The teaching varies so much, from your standard lectures to interactive sessions. All the teaching staff are really enthusiastic and really approachable, so if you are unsure about anything, you can just ask.”
Robert thinks that it’s crucial that all students take advantage of the extra-curricular work and links that are available at UCLan.
“[They have to] take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you, get involved early and volunteer,” he said.
“Talk to your tutors and lecturers, they are there to help and full of useful information.”