Psychology student profile

Zoë Tomlinson

Why did you choose the School of Psychology at the University of Leeds?
I chose Psychology at the University of Leeds because I instantly felt welcomed by the staff and current students who I met at the Open Day. Leeds is a Russell Group University therefore I knew I could expect a high standard of teaching and I was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities in the School of Psychology specifically.

Why did you choose your course? Why is it important for you to be studying it?
I chose Psychology because at A-Level I still felt unsure about the direction I wanted to take my career in. Psychology is a multi-faceted degree that has developed a broad range of transferable skills careers, appropriate for a number of careers. Therefore anyone with an interest in psychology will benefit from the course, whether it leads them into a related occupation or something completely different.

What were you doing before you started studying here?
I was completing my A-Levels in Psychology, Biology and English Literature at school. 

What has been the highlight of the programme/course?
I have enjoyed the broad range of topics that psychology at degree level offers. The topics all have real-world application which makes them relevant to study in order to have a better understanding of the mind, people and society as a whole.

Did any particular modules or projects impress you?
I have particularly enjoyed the Developmental Psychology modules including Development of Language and Literacy - one of my third year modules. I found the teaching to be extremely clear and the content itself especially interesting.

What support have the tutors and other staff given you?
My personal tutor has been invaluable to me during my time at Leeds and has helped me develop both academically and personally. I have found the teaching staff in general very approachable and available to help whenever needed.

How do you plan to use what you have learned here?  How will doing the course benefit you / the organisation you work in?
Psychology has taught me a number of skills which will be transferable into future career options. It has improved my communication skills, statistical ability and has given me a greater understanding of the way people think and why they act a certain way.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I am currently looking at graduate schemes in the field of Marketing which is the direction I want to take my career in.

What would you say to someone thinking of coming to study here?
I would whole-heartedly recommend Leeds as a place to study and live. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and met friends for life whilst studying a degree that will open many doors for me in the future.

What do you think of the city of Leeds/Yorkshire?
Leeds is a fun and vibrant city which is perfectly suited to students. It is affordable and has great transport links which was important for me as someone who lives far from Yorkshire. Leeds is unique to other cities as it is just a short drive away from the Yorkshire countryside, which can be a nice contrast to the busy city.