Post date: Jun 03, 2019 7:56:12 AM
01.06.2019
Well, where to start…
My second year at university has undoubtedly been challenging in so many ways, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. There is no lying about the significance of the jump from first to second year at university, it is something that I don’t think I prepared myself for at all. Instead, I took it in my stride and quickly came to realise how challenging the year ahead was going to be.
I started the year at the end of September, before I knew it I was delving into SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), statistics in psychology books and the research methods module had begun, it had become so much more challenging than in first year.
Within four weeks of starting second year, I was submitting the first research methods report on regression analysis, studying the relationship between a dependent variable and multiple dependent variables. I was concerned with my performance in this report but was very relieved and surprised when I received above 70% on it.
Then the work started for the first practical report of the year which was on the Rubber Hand Illusion, a fascinating phenomenon and investigation, through which adaptions of it have alleviated discomfort of those with phantom limb syndrome. More research methods assignments came, followed by a well needed Christmas break.
However, there wasn’t much time to rest as the January exams demanded revision. Following these, essay after essay was written, with some more practical reports being submitted. The year continued at full pace with assignments spread out right up until the 9th of May. Then revision started for the exams that would take place at the end of May, these turned out to be some of the most difficult exams I have studied for.
Many emotions were expressed, many thoughts of altering my path far away from a science degree, but these were all challenged by thoughts, prayers and words of encouragement from friends and family.
The exams have now been completed, relaxation has begun and we wait for the results of our assignments and exams.
All in all, second year has had its ups and downs, it’s challenged me, it has made me question my own ability, but it has allowed me to develop encouraging friendships.
The next challenge will be planning and completing my dissertation project, which is something I am looking forward to but will be difficult.
It is something I am hoping to carry out within the school, so I may require participants from the sixth form to truly benefit the research, it will all be anonymous, and I would appreciate anyone’s contribution. This is something I will discuss closer to the time and once a plan for the project has been made.
From someone who is known for being organised, the one recommendation I could make for those about to begin university, is to stay focused and plan everything out, whether that is your time or the assignments themselves.
But, don’t forget to stay positive, relax and enjoy the opportunities that arise.
Jasmine.