Your name: Josh
What course did you study at University Campus Oldham? BSc (Hons) Psychology
Why did you choose University Campus Oldham?
I chose to study at UCO because the classes were smaller, the environment was friendly and welcoming and the staff were approachable. I had heard about UCO through my tutors, as I was doing my Access to Higher Education course at Oldham College. I explored the website and found that it provided everything I wanted.
What were the highlights/stand out moments from your time at UCO?
The highlight was the campus culture – everyone was welcoming and supportive and I was able to get to know the staff.
The standout moments were the research projects I completed throughout my course, which then led to me presenting at two Research Symposiums and having my research published in UCO’s Spark Journal. The first was in collaboration with the Library team and then I completed my dissertation research.
Did you complete any placements as part of your course?
I didn’t complete placements, but I did work in education through an agency. I was working with special educational needs (SEN) students and so a lot of what I was learning in class could be applied. I could see the crossover of skills and knowledge between work and study. This allowed me to understand the theory a lot better and enabled me to evaluate some of the theory, exploring new avenues outside of lectures with professionals in the education field.
Did you receive support from other teams e.g. Academic Support, Wellbeing? helped you achieve your career goals?
I received a lot of support, more than I could ever wish for. I worked with Careers, Academic Skills and the Library team and the support provided me with a lot of opportunities. In terms of careers, it broadened my perspective of what careers are available after university. Working with Academic Support meant that I developed my essay writing and improved my grades. Although my grades were good throughout, I always wanted to go that bit further, so it was definitely beneficial.
What are your next steps?
I am now working at Oldham College as a Support Worker in the Additional Learning Support team and I have found the transition to employment quite smooth. I think this is because I was working in education throughout my degree. My future aspirations are to complete my Master’s, which I have started this year, and then after that my ambition is to apply for the Education Psychology Doctorate.
How has attending UCO helped you achieve your career goals?
My undergraduate degree has been very transferable to my new role and I have been able to apply learning and share ideas across the team. If I hadn’t had this prior knowledge, I think it would have been more challenging. In terms of the career path I’m pursuing, it will involve conducting research and working within the field of Psychology and UCO has provided me with the opportunity to participate in research.
What advice would you give to someone at the beginning of their UCO course?
Speak to staff and get to know them, participate in extracurricular activities and get to know your peers. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, as everyone is approachable.
