Employability

This week the focus is all about future careers. Going to university will give me a better opportunity to compete for jobs in different industries. I have develop a portfolio for one of my assignments. This meant that I had to reflect on my career history and to look for a job that I would like to do in the future.

When I left my job to come to university, I thought that I wanted to be a counsellor. It the reason why I choose to do my degree in psychology and counselling therapies.  However, being at university bought back the passion I have for helping people learn. I have always worked in the public and commercial sectors and never really considered working in higher education.

 Some of my lecturers have inspired me to want to teach and some of them has made me think that I could do that. My choice of job for the portfolio was a psychology lecturer. It was surprising to find that I will require a PHD to teach. This information has reinforced my decision to stay in higher education and go all the way. I wonder if I will end up teaching at Bedfordshire university  if so I think it will be a great joy. 

my old job as trainer with springboard group

my future Job

Exam Revision

It’s time to get down to revision. I have 4 exams 2 which are multipile choice and to written ones. I cant say I am looking forward to it, but its what I am there for to test my learning.

I have made a revision plan and will try to stick to it. I don’t want to become to stressed. I am worried about the written exams as I have dyslexia i will have extra time but this does not help with spelling. I want to do well as the exams  form a large percentage of your overall grade.

I have spent a fortunte on index cards and spend a lot of time making notes for me to remember all the various theories we have learnt in the different subjects and believe me psychology has lot of different therioes.

Research methods is causing me most concern I hae to remember which test for which xperiment. I will have to read and analyse data and write up the results using the right format.

Practice seems to be the only way so i am spending my days and nights writing out the formulas and I just hope I remember them.

Its important to find some time for relaxation during this period as constant worry is no good for anyone. I am concentrating on doing my best and I hope my best will give me the grades I need. 

planning is key

my desk and my cat to keep me calm

Springtime

The sun is out and I am enjoying the spring. It’s lovely to see the spring flowers and to have longer days. I have been celebrating my granddaughters 4^th birthday. It was lovely event with my family and friends of my daughter. Some of them are in their first year at university so it was good to compare stories.

My 2^nd year is nearly over. I can’t believe that the time has gone so quickly. I have just one piece of written work to submit then I can get down to revision. This stage of university is really about consolidating your knowledge. I have realised how much I learnt in year one and that knowledge has helped me to success n year 2.

 Spring is about new beginnings which usually gives me hope that I will have more opportunity to experience different things. I am beginning to see the first signs that I have learnt things in psychology and about studying which has improved my self-confidence.

Being at university gives you so many different things, it’s not just about the academic achievements. Learning to motivate yourself and learn independently are important skills which contributes towards success in making the transitions into higher Education.

So If you are considering go to university why not come to an open day where you get to speak to students who are living the experience.

studying in the sun

Accommodation

Accommodation

This week has been interesting its the start of exam season. Lots to do but its good spending time at home. I live in my own accommodation so I don’t have to worry about where I live outside of term time.

If you are thinking about coming to university it is important to consider where you going to live.  For many students its the first time that they are going to live away from home.  Choosing the right accommodation is important as it will be the place where you spend your time outside of the university. For some students living on campus is a good option. There is no travel involved and there is the added security of living with other students. Living in halls also gives students a chance to make new friends. This option can be expensive however, for younger students in their first year it may be the best option

During year two, many students share renting a house this is a cheaper option than living in halls but you have the added responsibility of paying bills. This option will give you more independence. But you will have to find a deposit.

If you are lucky enough to live at home whilst studying it is important to factor in travel time and costs. This can also mean you don’t do as many things socially but if you make the effort to do some campus events you can have the best of both worlds

Whatever option you choose do a budget and ensure that you can afford it and its safe.

living in halls