Inside Elena’s postgrad life

Why did you choose to take postgraduate study and how was it different from your undergraduate degree?

After completing my undergraduate degree, I was working as an Education Support Officer and wanted to further challenge myself in a way that supported my role. Although Psychology was a completely different discipline with a new academic language, I chose it because I believed it would strengthen my career and improve the advice I provide to students, particularly from a scientific perspective.

Postgraduate study differed greatly from my undergraduate experience. Studying one subject per session allowed me to focus more deeply, while scientific writing was a major adjustment. Balancing full-time work alongside study also required much stronger time management. In hindsight, I realise how much more free time I had during my undergraduate degree.

How did you balance work, study, and life?

I thrive under structure, so having a clear routine was essential. Each week, I created a Monday to-do list and built a structured timetable that included work, study, and downtime. Mapping out specific tasks at specific times helped me stay organised and consistent throughout my degree.

How has postgraduate study influenced your work and what are your top tips?

My postgraduate studies have had a direct impact on how I work. Skills like active listening now shape the way I support students every day, and my scientific writing training has made me more critical and confident when working with data. These skills have strengthened both my professional practice and personal life.

A postgraduate degree gives you a lot of materials. It was important for me to take advantage of all the resources provided. There is a world of knowledge out there, it’s up to you to read it, understand it and apply it.  

^{This interview has been edited and condensed from two conversations.}