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Amarens Matthiesen

Amarens studied at a high school in Brussels, although is originally from Canada. She is currently sudying Psychology with German.

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Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

First of all, when I attended a visit day in 2009, I thought the campus was a perfect size. Furthermore, the student accommodation halls (e.g. Heathfield, Belmont) are very modern and all en-suite. Dundee University has a large international student community which was also something that appealed to me. Out of all the universities I visited in the UK, Canada, Belgium and the Netherlands, Dundee University appealed to me most as the city is of perfect size and it is easy to get around campus.

What is the best thing about your course and why?

Now that I am in my third year of Psychology, I am starting to enjoy it even more. The first two years were relatively introductory whereas now we are able to use our knowledge in more depth. The course requires a lot of independent working and keeping up with material yourself, which I enjoy. As Psychology is a broad subject, the material which is covered in lectures can vary from social Psychology to biological Psychology. In this way, you gain a great deal of insight into the human brain and how you can relate it to real life situations. Moreover, a degree in Psychology will provide you with a valuable educational basis which is fundamental in many fields of employment.

Have you taken part in any student exchanges/work placements?

As volunteering is very important for Psychology students in order to gain experience for future jobs, I was determined to start volunteering early. Still in high school, I volunteered at various summer camps for young children in Brussels, Belgium. Last summer, I volunteered at a Psychiatric Hospital as well as a care home for people affected by Alzheimer's disease in Montreal, Canada. Through volunteering, I gained a significant amount of experience in working with children, elderly people and people affected by mental illnesses. Therefore, the increased insight I gained into the various fields of employment in Psychology allows me to make better choices into the career path I want to follow.

What information do you think applicants need to know before starting this course?

Personally, I would suggest that you should be prepared to work independently and devote enough time to keep up with the materials covered. Statistics is also part of the course, which is something that shouldn't worry you. In third year, a three-day trip with lecturers and students takes place where you get to know the lecturers personally and create stronger bonds. If you should choose to study Psychology, I am certain that you will enjoy it!

What was your experience of settling into life in Dundee when you first arrived?

As it is very easy to get around in Dundee, I think it is relatively easy for new students to settle in. From clubs, pubs, restaurants to theatres and cinemas, Dundee has most of what you need. Otherwise, it is very easy to make day trips to St. Andrews, Edinburgh or Glasgow. The experience of living in halls with other students who are going through the same as you made it all easier as well.

How easy did you find it to settle into the UK as a whole? What was different if compared to your home country?

The UK definitely has some differences with Canada. Even though Dundee is considerably smaller than Montreal (my current home), I believe the city is perfect for new students. As an often young, new student it can be quite overwhelming to begin your new life in a huge city. In Canada, the university campus is often widespread and most cities are large and therefore travelling time is long. In Dundee, it takes only 10 minutes to walk to the city center from campus. Perfect for students!

What sports activities or clubs/societies are you involved with?

I have been a proud member of Dundee University Tennis Club since my first year in University. As a social committee member, I organize parties and other social events. I strongly encourage freshers to join a sports club as it's a great way to meet new people!

What has been your best university experience to date and why?

The entire university experience makes you grow stronger each year. I particularly enjoyed applying my knowledge from lectures to clinical settings when I volunteered in a psychiatric hospital as well as working with people affected by Alzheimer's disease last summer. I have more plans to work with autistic children in the future.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

I believe that you should make a good balance between your social life and studying, as both of them are important to enjoy yourself at university. In the beginning the course might seem overwhelming but you can get through even the heaviest workload just by being organised. It is also important to think about volunteering as early as you can, as Psychology often places a great emphasis on the importance of having these experiences which look great on your CV. All in all, I am certain that you will enjoy studying Psychology at Dundee University!