Psychology graduate gets accepted at the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Edinburgh for her PhD

Interview with Miruna Barbu

Miruna Barbu, from Romania, recent graduate of our Psychology Department visited our main campus in Thessaloniki and shared with us the good news: she has been accepted from the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Edinburgh to pursue a PhD in Schizophrenia. Read what she told us in the interview below:

Q:  What did you study at the International Faculty? When did you graduate?

A: I attended the BSc (Hons) in Psychology and I graduated in June, 2015.

Q: What were your steps right after graduation?

A: During my final year, I applied to a number of Master’s programmes in the UK, as I was keen to continue my education in the field of neuropsychology.

Q: How do you feel about being accepted to the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Edinburgh?

A: Needless to say, I feel ecstatic. I am excited to continue my studies within this field, and am looking forward to discovering novel opportunities that this will bring.

Q: Why did you choose to do a PhD? Why in the subject of schizophrenia?

A: I have always wanted to go up the academia ladder, and I feel that a PhD would provide me with a vast amount of knowledge in an area which I am passionate about, in a way in which no other type of education could. I chose to specialise in the study of Schizophrenia because it’s always been a passion of mine – I have always wanted to investigate and discover the way in which the brain works when affected by this disorder, not only because it affects so many areas of one’s life, but also because it is so esoteric in numerous ways.

Q: What is your dream career?

A: After completing my PhD, I would like to become a clinical neuropsychologist and specialise in counselling and treating individuals with severe mental disorders.

Q: How did your studies at the International Faculty help you in your acceptance?

A: My studies at the International Faculty aided me in a number of ways, both academically and professionally. On one hand, my lecturers helped in providing me with the knowledge necessary to get accepted onto a Master’s programme, and later on onto a PhD programme. Moreover, staff at the International Faculty were immensely helpful in providing information and skills which were much needed when applying to programmes, such as soft skills (e.g. time management, organisation) and how to create a curriculum vitae. For all this, I thank all individuals who have shaped me as a student during my Bachelor studies.

Q: What do the best memories from CITY College include?

A: I think they are a combination of classes, extracurricular activities, and social life. In other words – everything!

Q: What did you appreciate most from your study years with us?

A: I don’t think there is something that I appreciate the most. Every aspect of my Bachelor studies has been important to my development, therefore I appreciate all opportunities I was given while I was a student there. If I really had to pick something, it would be my lecturers – they had amazing patience and succeeded in providing a foundation in Psychology, something that will be with me for my entire life.

Q: Any advice you would give to our students/graduates?

A: I know everyone says this, but I would tell current students to enjoy their studies as much as they can. 3 years seems like a long time, but it passes in the blink of an eye. Therefore, take advantage of every opportunity that is given to you, study as much as you can, and take part in as many extracurricular activities as possible. Even if it seems like there is no time for anything else other than studies, you can always make time to volunteer.