I have learned and sharpened a lot of skills that will be helpful in my future career

A reputation for world class education

The UK is known for having some of the best universities in the world. Therefore, I knew that I would gain a world class education in a UK university. The fact that the Master’s program is also 1 year long was very appealing as it would enable me to get back to work quicker.

A diverse and welcoming city

I did a lot of research prior to picking Sheffield. Many of the internet articles and student reviews highlighted that Sheffield was a very student friendly city - with a lot of diverse cultures and more affordable compared to other cities. This coupled with Sheffield University being a Russell Group and World Top 100 university made me more confident that the atmosphere and quality of education at Sheffield would be excellent for me. 

The Institute of Work Psychology (IWP)

A deciding factor in terms of the course I chose to study was the presence of the Institute of Work Psychology (IWP) which is under the SUMS. The fact that there is a dedicated institute for my course made me more confident that the quality of the program would be very high. I was also excited about the prospect of completing a company project in a real organisation, in lieu of a dissertation since that would be an opportunity to gain a unique perspective of actual workplace dynamics and how my expertise can contribute to it.

Before my masters

Prior to starting my Master’s, I was working as a School Counsellor at an educational institution in Tanzania and a Project Manager at a consultancy firm.

I wanted to pursue a specialised career

I decided to pursue a Master’s degree so that I could gain expertise and specialise in the field of Work Psychology. In previous roles, I had done some tasks involving training and employee wellness, which I found very interesting and was eager to pursue a specialised career in. The Master’s degree is therefore a step in the right direction.

Overcoming my concerns

I moved across the world to pursue this program, so I had plenty of concerns. While online sources and people’s accounts of the UK insisted that there is a diverse culture, I was still concerned about the cultural differences and worried that there could be a high level of cultural shock. Additionally, I was apprehensive about finding a community that I could truly connect with and feel a sense of belonging. 

Looking back at the last few months, something that has helped me overcome these concerns is maintaining an open mind, and engaging more with other students in and outside of the classroom. I participated in some events organised by the student union, which gave me the opportunity to meet and make friends with a lot of people from all over the world.

The lectures are well designed

The highlight of my course so far is how enjoyable the lectures are. The lecture content is well organised and designed to  encourage us to think critically and develop our understanding about key issues. 

Also, during Intro Week in September, SUMS arranged a team building activity for our course which we did in the Peak District. It was a cool way to get to know my course mates and our Course Director

Getting involved

I have made friends in Sheffield by parking in activities that were arranged by the Student Union. For instance, during Black History Month in October, there was a student social where I met and socialised with Black Students from all over the world.  

I have also joined the Women In Business society which hosts a lot of exciting events and guest speakers. 

Outside of studying, I enjoy exploring Sheffield and other parts of the UK. I like the greenery in Sheffield and the fact that it is a very walkable city. I enjoy taking day trips to Manchester and the Peak District; or sometimes longer trips to London. 

Sharpening my skills

I have learned and sharpened a lot of skills that will be helpful in my future career. Key skills that I have developed thus far are critical thinking and working in teams. As an aspiring consultant, these skills will enable me to  develop and deploy best solutions while maintaining positive relationships with the people I work with.

Engaging with societies

I have joined the Women in Business Society which hosts key speakers who offer insight into employment and career development opportunities. This helps me make more informed plans and decisions on how to pursue my post study plans.

Career ambitions

After I graduate, I hope to work as a Work Psychologist or consultant where I can fully apply my skills and knowledge to solve challenges in the workplace.

Gaining new perspectives

This Master’s is helping me develop critical skills and gain a global perspective on workplace dynamics.

Take the leap

I would advise anyone considering studying Work/ Occupational Psychology at University of Sheffield to go for it! The course is well tailored and delivered, they will have a great time learning, gain very unique perspectives of workplace dynamics and have the options to pursue different paths post study.