Carl Ebanks

"I chose to study BSc (Hons) Clinical Psychology at Sunderland as when I talked with friends who previously attended, it was clear that the University is a friendly place to study and has lecturers who provide detailed assignment feedback. With over 20 years out of education, a friendly environment with constructive feedback was exactly what I needed to feel assured in returning as a mature student. At 35, my children were older and less financially dependent, and over the years, I'd always enjoyed discussing various topics with people, and in doing so, became an approachable person, with people confiding in me about their personal difficulties. In considering what I wanted to do, pursuing a career in clinical psychology would make use of my interpersonal skills and intellectual interests.

It’s hard to choose a favourite part of the course as there were so many interesting topics covered and my lecturers always catered to my questions. However, looking back, the thing I valued the most was just going to university and talking with students, lecturers, and other staff. One conversation could be polite weather talk, and the next you’re in the depths of philosophy, politics, NHS funding issues, or the pros and cons of Bayesian statistics. I've never been surrounded by people where such a scope of topic discussion was possible.

My advice to prospective students would be to carefully consider what you want to study, as most of us will only study at graduate level once. Grades are important, and thinking tactically (such as picking the easiest assignment question) is something I and other students have done. The Year 3 project is no different – you can tactically choose an easier project or you can push yourself to do something you’re passionate about. From experience, such passion motivated me to work hard, and you may end up with a better, meaningful, and publishable study. Those insights will carry forward if you pursue the chosen topic at master's or PHD level. At the very least, you'll have pushed yourself to the edge of your comfort zone, making substantial academic and personal growth.

Since graduating, I've recently gained a full-time position as a recovery coordinator, helping those suffering with mental health, drug, and alcohol problems. My long-term goal is to become a clinical psychologist, however, the path is very competitive, so I remain open-minded to alternative roles, such as a mental health wellbeing practitioner. I've also discussed honorary student status within the University and hope to become a small part of a larger research team. In addition, with the assistance of two lecturers, my Year 3 project is in the process of being extended, an opportunity which I'm very grateful for.

The key thing I learned at university that helps me in my work today was self-sufficiency in researching and properly interpreting evidence-based insights or solutions, as it's given me confidence to approach any issue I'm unsure of.

If I could sum up my experience at the University of Sunderland, I'd say that a great deal of personal and academic development was achieved. Many of the module topics were very interesting, leading to engaging group discussions. Each year, there were periods of high workload which wasn't always easy, yet the combination of approachable lecturers, constructive feedback, and a friendly supportive social environment helped me to maintain motivation and a solid work ethic."