One of the main
reasons people chose to do a Master's degree is to gain deeper knowledge of a
particular subject, often introduced to them during their undergraduate degree.
However, my reasons were very different...
Before
coming to Sheffield in September, I studied Psychology and Cognitive
Neuroscience as an undergrad – which is very
different to my postgrad degree in Human Nutrition. I knew that I enjoyed studying and science, and
the prospect of a career in research really appealed to me. However, there
wasn't an area of psychology that I felt truly passionate about.
Then one day (whilst procrastinating), I had a bit of a light bulb moment watching a documentary on health and diet. I realised that I’d always been interested in
this area, and that it was related to the aspects of science I'd enjoyed at
school but felt were lacking from my first degree. So I decided to do a bit of
research, and came across the Human Nutrition course at Sheffield, which ticked
all the boxes. Within a few months I had visited the university, made an
application and received an offer, which really helped to motivate me during
the final few months of my undergraduate studies.
My
first term in Sheffield felt like such a whirlwind. I was incredibly busy, having
moved to a new city, making new friends, joining new societies, and of course
learning a whole new subject. The first few weeks were definitely a massive learning
curve for me, as I discovered areas of science that I had never studied before
or that I had only touched upon on at school a long time ago. I definitely
lacked sleep at times, as I worked long hours trying to understand nutritional
biochemistry while also trying to maintain some kind of social life. However, I
felt like I'd found my calling and was absolutely loving what I was learning,
far more than I had done at undergraduate, so enjoyed putting in the extra
effort. I quickly realised it was what I wanted to continue doing, so began
looking into the idea of PhDs in molecular nutrition. This has now become my
goal and I hope that I will be successful in securing a suitable position in
the future.
I
would definitely recommend a Master's degree if you desire a change in your
studies or career, as it provides so many career options. If you're able and
eligible to apply for your preferred course, don't be daunted by the prospect
of something new - if it's what you really want, you'll be passionate enough to
put your mind to anything and succeed, as corny as that might sound! I am much
happier now, learning about what I really enjoy, and know it has been the best
decision I've ever made.
Tilly Potter, MMedSci Human Nutrition
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