A Natural Next Step – Andrew’s Journey in the International two-year master’s program in psychology

Meet Andrew - student in the International two-year master's program in psychology

Why did you apply for the program?

– When I first discovered the International Master’s Program in Psychology here at Stockholm University, I genuinely felt it was written just for me and that it was the next natural step in my academic journey. I really wanted to study in Sweden, and I liked that the program strongly emphasized research. Additionally, I have always believed that immersing oneself in diverse cultural and academic environments can greatly facilitate personal and scholarly growth. Choosing to earn a degree abroad demonstrates a deliberate choice to challenge oneself by stepping outside the familiar and adapting to new cultural and institutional frameworks. As I plan to pursue a PhD after finishing my master’s, I wanted my academic trajectory to reflect this capacity for adaptability and a willingness to tackle complex problems, and I truly believed this program was the best way for me to demonstrate that.

Was the program what you expected?

– In many ways, yes, but in some, no. I don’t think I fully examined or appreciated the amount of organizational psychology course offerings in the program. This program prepares students for careers outside the clinical realm; however, psychology is a very broad field, and there are far more options for psychology students than HR positions. I would have enjoyed seeing more courses in educational, forensic/justice, and developmental psychology. Working in schools, prisons, and elder care facilities, or even remaining in academia as an educator or researcher, requires an even broader base of knowledge, and I believe it would have been interesting to explore additional facets of this amazing field. That being said, the courses available to us that I have taken have been excellent, and I have enjoyed all of them and learned a great deal.

What is the best thing about the program?

– I believe that with most things in life, you get out of it what you put in. And so, for me, aside from simply being able to study in Sweden, the best part of this program has been the incredible friends I have made in my cohort. It has been so much fun to learn and study together and to discover what brought each one of us to this program. All of our backgrounds are so different, and our interests in psychology are so broad. It’s been truly amazing getting to know all of my coursemates and going on this journey together. On a more personal note, I already notice my academic growth. I have become a better researcher, and I have had the privilege of learning from and working alongside some amazing professionals in the psychology department here at Stockholm University. This practical experience and growth have been incredibly worthwhile for me, and I am so grateful for these opportunities.

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