Studying Psychology - Test 3

C1 Advanced · Multiple Matching · C1 Advanced Trainer 2, Cambridge University Press

You are going to read an article in which four people who study psychology at university talk about their course. For questions 1–10, choose from the students (A–D). The students may be chosen more than once.

When I was at school and still considering whether to apply to do psychology, a teacher warned me that it involved a great deal of science. I didn’t realise at the time, though, the extent to which it does relate to science. Given the rather superficial understanding of psychology that most non-specialists have, however, perhaps it’s to be expected that people have little idea of the amount of science that it involves. But whatever area of psychology you’re talking about – and there are many of them – I soon discovered that there are always numbers, statistics, trials and evidence to get to grips with, and in the process of doing so, you develop a repertoire of competences. When I first walked into a psychology lecture and saw that every seat in the auditorium was taken, I was stunned. I’ve used that to over the years of my degree and it’s reassuring in a way to think that there are many other people my age who recognise both the practical and sheer interest value to be gained from the subject.

When I tell people I’m studying psychology, they often say things like ‘Can you read my mind, then?’ or ‘Can you give me some advice about a problem?’ This used to get on my nerves. How could anyone be so ignorant, particularly given the large numbers of people that study psychology? I tend to see the humorous side of it these days, though. This place is the wide ground that psychology covers – more than most would imagine – from genetics to the psychology of organisations. The latter might not sound very glamorous, but it’s something that intrigues me greatly and, hopefully, is an area I can find employment in at some point. Whatever aspect of psychology you look at, however, it’s important to take a critical approach. That’s drummed into us from the word go. We’re also always encouraged to work with other students, as well as on our own, and to seek advice from our tutors whenever we’re faced with anything we feel we can’t deal with by ourselves. This has been tremendous for me personally.

At school, the idea of being a doctor had always appealed to me. A few months into my first year studying medicine, however, I began to feel that I wasn’t suited to it after all, and I managed to switch to psychology. It was quite traumatic, giving up the prospect of a great career and disappointing my parents. They had very little idea about what my new subject involved and whether I’d learn anything from it that could set me up for a good job. To be honest, I was far from convinced myself initially. With hindsight, however, I know I did the right thing, and I derive a certain satisfaction from having gone ahead with the move. Frankly, it puzzles me why more people don’t end up doing the same. There’s so much to psychology, including a scientific emphasis, which, given my background, I’m comfortable with. It can take you down all sorts of exciting career paths.

It would be wrong to say that I had a clear idea about what a psychology degree entailed when I applied to do one, but I think I made the right choice. At school, I loved science and I was advised that, although people often don’t think of psychology as a science, it would suit me – and that proved to be the case. One thing about my degree is that it’s incredibly diverse. The terms neuro-educational, forensic, clinical and sports, for example, all precede psychology to describe well-established fields, and I must admit that, initially, I found this somewhat overwhelming. I also struggled with the notion that any idea or ‘fact’ has to be endlessly cross-examined and debated, to the extent that you doubt whether you know anything for certain. This still irritates me sometimes, but I can live with it. I’m in my third year now, and doing a project which involves some research and then delivering a presentation and submitting a written report. It’s complex, but doing it on my own is exciting and has made me think about a career in which research plays a part.

Studying psychology

concerned about the breadth of the subject

unsure about how useful the skills developed on the course would be

surprised by how scientific the course was

frustrated by a lack of definite answers

amused by certain perceptions of the subject

inspired by the opportunity to work independently

proud to have made a difficult decision

appreciative of the support available

impressed by the popularity of the course

fascinated by a particular topic area within psychology

Available as a free printable PDF worksheet with an optional answer key.

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