Charlotte Patient, Psychology BSc

Charlotte Patient, Psychology BSc (2024)

1. Why did you decide to study your programme?

I initially discovered my passion for Psychology during my A-level studies. The curriculum sparked my curiosity, and I found myself engrossed in learning about the various psychological theories and research methods. As I progressed through the course, I discovered the potential Psychology holds in shaping our understanding of ourselves and others.

The breadth of Psychology as a subject was also a factor in my decision to study it at a higher level. The field encompasses so many different disciplines which each approach psychological phenomena in novel ways and allows for detailed and complex conclusions to be formed about human behaviour and cognition. The desire to explore this subject in greater depth, coupled with the excitement of applying its principles to real-life situations, ultimately led me to choose to study a Psychology degree.

2. Why did you apply to study at UCL?

The decision to apply to study at UCL was comprised of many factors. One of the most important factors for me was the focus that UCL puts on studying Psychology from an empirical, research-led standpoint. Because of this, so much of the research published from UCL is world-leading and has important implications for science and society. Being taught by lecturers who are a part of this research is inspiring and means you are learning the newest models and research methods.

Also, when looking at courses, I found the course structure of UCL particularly appealing as it provides a detailed knowledge of many areas of Psychology and then in the final year of the degree you can specialise in what you have found most interesting in modules which allow you to develop your specific psychological interest.

Additionally, I chose to apply to UCL as I had wanted to live in London during my studies. It is vibrant, buzzing, and full of interesting and fun things to do on days off and evenings – it is difficult to be bored in London!

3. What do you find inspiring at UCL and why?

I find my peers and lecturers particularly inspiring as they broaden my perspective on not only Psychology as a subject, by asking thought-provoking questions and giving engaging lectures, but also on life in general. I have appreciated being able to learn so much from others throughout my course so far and look forward to learning more as I go into my final year.

4. What is your fondest memory of your time at UCL so far?

My fondest memory of UCL so far has been being a part of societies and clubs. As a member of the climbing society, UCLCMC, I have had the opportunity to not only learn new skills but also to go abroad to climb in countries like France and Spain. Additionally, I have been able to be a part of the Psychology Society committee where I have organised social and academic events for the department – working with other PALS students to run these events has been both fun and taught me leadership and logistic skills.

5. What are your plans once you've completed your current programme of study?

Currently, my plans are to go onto a master’s programme in linguistics at UCL. However, with my third year coming up and giving me the chance to further explore areas of psychology including applications of programming and human-computer interaction, I do not have any certain plans yet. I’m excited to see what I enjoy studying in more detail next year and will take my next steps based on that!