'I have access to world-leading research and a welcoming global community'

GREAT scholar Rimsha from Pakistan is studying for a master’s in psychology in education at the University of York. Hear about her experiences living, studying and embracing new cultures in the UK, the enriching academic environment she’s immersed in and learn about her new role at the NHS.

‘I am so inspired by the world-leading research going on in my field’

When deciding where to study, I was impressed by how versatile the field of psychology and psychological research is in the UK. The huge body of literature that I found was so inspiring. At the University of York specifically, there is so much world-leading research in the fields of education, psychology and organisational psychology, which really interested me.

The opportunity to research under expert academics, engage in meaningful intellectual debates and meet all these amazing people who have done incredible research in my field is unrivalled. I just had to come. Psychology is still an up-and-coming field in Pakistan, so to expand my perspectives and horizons, coming to the UK was appealing due to the volume and variety of research being done. I've seen the passion, commitment and dedication to psychology as a discipline in the UK and am so pleased to become part of it.

‘I communicate regularly with different experts and academics’

My dissertation looks at a specific angle of development psychology but from a non-western perspective, instead focusing on countries - like Pakistan - where there is currently a smaller body of research. One thing I’ve loved here is that I communicate regularly with different experts and academics, and many part-time work opportunities are available for students too. I’m becoming increasingly familiar with the working culture in the UK and the current climate for jobs and roles available. When I graduate, I want to build on my experiences during my studies and hopefully move into a successful career in marketing psychology. It’s my dream.

‘I love the independence and freedom I’ve had while studying in the UK’

Coming to study in the UK, beyond academics, has led to so many new experiences for me. I’ve enjoyed living in student accommodation, decorating my dormitory, and having a space entirely my own. I love the independence and freedom I’ve had while studying here. Finding a place to live, finding my circle of friends - my chosen family - eating amazing food, travelling. The food I tried in London was some of the best I’ve ever had. It’s been so much fun exploring.

Coming to the UK to study is so different from coming here, for example, to work. Although during my master's, there is a lot of work to do academically, my schedule is different than it would be if I were working full-time. I can spend my days more flexibly, and I have a group of people around me who are also new and eager to explore and experience new things and travel as much as possible.

‘Travelling by public transport in the UK is so accessible and relatively inexpensive’

One of my biggest passions in life is travelling. I want to travel the world, explore different cuisines and different cultures. Travelling by public transport in the UK is so accessible and relatively inexpensive. It’s easy, even if you’re on a budget, to book a train or bus ticket and go to another city with your friends, whether on a day or overnight trip.

‘There is so much history, culture and natural beauty here in the UK’

So far, I’ve been to Liverpool, Scarborough, Newcastle and London, among other places, and Europe is also so close. There is so much history, culture and natural beauty, and some of the bigger cities are like a melting pot of people from many different countries and cultures. It’s an amazing opportunity to find out what you’re passionate about and connect with all sorts of different people and cultures.

‘I’ve made so many unforgettable memories’

I’ve made so many unforgettable memories here. Beyond everything else, I think just the time I’ve spent with my friends has been the best. I’ve met people from practically everywhere, all with their own customs and cultures. It’s been so interesting getting to know them and learning more about them and the places they are from.

'I've been able to share Pakistani culture with my friends'

I have learned so much, and I’ve also been able to share my culture with others. Not everyone in my classes, for example, knows that much about Pakistan. The other day I was playing Pakistani music with a friend, and she loved it. These cultural exchanges have been one of the most rewarding parts of this whole experience. I can’t wait to keep doing that, even when I graduate.

‘Go and meet people. Try new things. You might even surprise yourself with what you end up doing’

When you’re in a new and unfamiliar environment, like when you first come to study here, it can feel easier to stay in your own little comfort bubble. Say, to hang out with people from your country who you may be more familiar with or to seek out the food you’ve always eaten. I recommend you don’t do that. Of course, keep that connection to your own culture and people too, but also step outside your comfort zone when you’re here. Go out and meet people. Try new things. This is your opportunity. Use it wisely. You might even surprise yourself with what you end up doing.

'I started my job search in May and found a job within a month'

I decided to start looking for a job before I graduated so I could ideally transition smoothly from my master’s into work. I started my job search in May and found a job within a month. During that time, I applied for multiple jobs each day, and of course, I received rejection emails along the way, which was frustrating. But my advice to anyone in a similar situation would be to just push through it, as you will find something that fits you sooner or later.

I know the job market can be tough, but I feel that you can increase your chances of success if you make sure your skills align with whatever job you are looking for and you go for things you want. It’s also important to apply for things you know you’re qualified for or at least have a shot of getting.

‘I now work in the speech and language therapy department at the NHS’

I now work at the NHS (National Health Service) working in the speech and language therapy department. I work with other speech and language therapists and families and children who come to use the service. Speaking Urdu is an asset in the role as the team sometimes needs someone to act as an interpreter between the therapists and families, as many families are from Urdu-speaking backgrounds.

‘My master’s prepared me well for the job that I’m doing now’

My master’s prepared me really well and, I’m sure, helped me secure my role at the NHS because what I am doing now is similar to what I studied in my course. So far, I’ve been working remotely for 20 hours a week because I’m still working on my dissertation. When I finish my studies, I’ll move from York to London, where the job is based, and transition into full-time, face-to-face work.