Swansea University Psychology graduate Oliver Preston has much to celebrate this week.
Oliver, aged 22, from Buckingham, received his First Class BSc Psychology degree at the College of Human and Health Sciences’ Degree Award Congregation on Wednesday, July 20.
He was also the winner of the College’s annual prize for Best Final Year Student. And after a well-deserved summer break, he will take up a place on the University’s new MSc Cognitive Neuroscience, starting this October.
Spending a gap year travelling after completing his A Levels meant that Oliver was unable to visit prospective universities. But he initially applied to study Geography at Swansea University based on fond childhood memories, the quality of the prospectus, and the appeal of the campus.
On his return, Oliver accompanied a friend to a Swansea open day to get to know his future campus a little better, and while there accompanied her to the ‘Introduction to Psychology’ lecture.
Oliver said: “I had never previously studied Psychology; however human behaviour had always captivated me. After the lecture I was convinced that Psychology was the right subject choice for me. ”
Within two weeks, and with help from the College of Human and Health Sciences admissions coordinator Karen Huxtable, Oliver had secured a place on the BSc Psychology programme – and he hasn’t looked back since.
“It was a life-changing day all-in-all; I’m so glad that I attended the talk that day and I’d also like to thank Karen for her help and advice,” said Oliver.
“I’ve had a fantastic three years at Swansea. I love the subject; I’ve made great friends, and benefited from both the course and extracurricular aspects of University life. The campus, nightlife, location, and University sports have all added to the experience.
“My favourite part has been the final year project. To be responsible for running your own study, working closely with the senior research staff of the department, and getting my first real taste of academic research was a fantastic experience!”
Oliver is thrilled to have accepted a place on the new MSc Cognitive Neuroscience programme at Swansea, which use a state-of-the-art imaging facility funded by the Wales Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience.
“It’s such a great opportunity – to be one of the first students on the new programme offers a fantastic advantage when pursuing a career in psychology,” he added.
Simon Dymond, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Swansea University said: “As Oliver’s project supervisor, I’ve seen at first hand his motivation, resourcefulness, and eagerness to learn. Combined with a prescient understanding of the importance of scientific communication, Oliver has the requisite ability, and more, needed to succeed.
“I wish him all of the very best in today’s challenging graduate environment.”
For more information about Swansea University Graduation Week visit http://www.swansea.ac.uk/graduation/.
