Clara Fulton

Why did you choose the School of Psychology at the University of Leeds?
I really liked the feel of the University as a whole when I visited on the open day; the students union looked like it had so much to offer and the location of the campus in comparison to town and student areas such as Headingley was really good. I always knew I wanted to study psychology and talking to students at the open day only confirmed this further for me. 

Why did you choose your course? Why is it important for you to be studying it?
I studied Psychology right from GCSE and always found it fascinating. I have had a particular interest in mental health and knew I wanted to go into a job that worked with people so I thought psychology would help me with this. I liked the fact at Leeds that you could do a Year in Industry or a Study Abroad but there was no pressure to choose either of these things straight away. 

What were you doing before you started studying here?
I came to uni straight after completing my A Levels. 

What has been the highlight of the programme/course?
My Year in Industry has given me invaluable work experience and allowed me to see clinical psychology in the real world. It has further inspired me to seek a career in clinical psychology and has given me the skills and knowledge I need to hopefully be successful in this field. 

Did any particular modules or projects impress you?
I have really enjoyed the Face Perception module at Level 3. Creating a podcast is such a creative way to be assessed and has really allowed me to take charge of my own learning and follow my interests. The module has felt really useful for developing not only my knowledge of the topic but always developing a wide range of skills from working in a group and developing our own project from scratch. 

What support have the tutors and other staff given you?
The Careers Office has been really supportive in helping me secure my placement and offered a mock interview which helped me feel much more prepared for my formal interview. My personal tutor also helped by reading over my application forms. 

How do you plan to use what you have learned here?  How will doing the course benefit you/the organisation you work in?
I plan to use my learning from the University of Leeds to go into a career in clinical psychology. The course will have helped me do this by providing me with the key foundations of psychology as well as a wide array of skills – both personal and academic. The relevant experience I gained in my placement year will also really help me in future jobs. 

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I plan to apply for jobs as a support worker or as an assistant psychologist. 

What would you say to someone thinking of coming to study here?
Do it! I have had a great time at Leeds and so have most people I know!  

What do you think of the city of Leeds/Yorkshire?
I really liked the city of Leeds; it has lots going on without feeling as overwhelming as some bigger cities like London or Manchester. The student areas are great when you move out in 2nd year with lots of good pubs, cafes and restaurants around Hyde Park and Headingley. It is great that areas out of the city can be accessed easily as well; I have really enjoyed walking around Roundhay Park or Ilkley Moor and they are great places to take family when they come to visit.