What knowledge and skills did you learn during your Master’s that are really useful to you now?
The Behaviour Change Master's programme offered me specialised knowledge on social psychology and influence techniques, and it also provided valuable skills for my future career. Managing the demanding coursework, reading required literature, and submitting assignments while juggling personal commitments taught me essential time management and organisational skills. I realised early on in the programme that strict scheduling was necessary to keep up with the workload. This differed greatly from my experience during the Bachelor's, where I felt my schedule could be a bit more lenient and subject to improvisations.
Moreover, given the relatively small size of the programme and the weekly group assignments, I was in constant contact with other students. Collaborating on group projects helped me develop strong teamwork skills, and being close to other students helped me whenever I felt discouraged or overwhelmed by an incoming deadline.
Lastly, because of the nature of the assignments and exams, the master emphasized the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving, encouraging me to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and come up with psychological interventions built upon well-reasoned and substantiated arguments. This emphasis on analytical thinking has refined my approach to tackling challenges, both inside and outside the academic realm.
What did you find most challenging in your Master’s programme? Did you encounter any obstacles?
The fast pace of the programme and the numerous deadlines were the most prominent challenges during my master. The intensity of the coursework and the need to balance academic responsibilities with personal commitments demanded a high level of dedication and time management skills. To keep up, I had to adapt to a study routine and remain focused on the learning objectives.
Additionally, the frequent deadlines for assignments required me to be highly disciplined. Juggling multiple tasks simultaneously was at times overwhelming, and it forced me to prioritise tasks and allocate time efficiently.
Do you have any tips/suggestions for prospective students?
As a former student, my biggest suggestion for prospective students would be to organise study sessions with peers. This approach proved incredibly beneficial during my academic journey, and I believe it could enhance anyone's learning experience. Studying in a group setting provided me with the opportunity to exchange ideas and gain fresh perspectives on course materials and complex concepts, deepening my understanding of the course material.
Secondly, it helped me maintain focus and discipline, making it easier to stay on track with coursework and assignments.
Lastly, in addition to academic benefits, study groups were a great source of motivation and support for me. When facing academic challenges or feeling discouraged, being close to my study group encouraged me and helped me overcome obstacles.