Richard
Bowen

Why NTU...

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree?

"During my undergraduate course I developed a keen interest in VR and its effects on visual perception and, upon discovering Cyberpsychology as a course I realised how much more I wanted to know about how computers interact with the brain.

This course offered to explore many different applications of how technology and the brain interacted, and I knew this would be something I’d be very interested in."

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

"NTU was one of the few universities offering the MSc Cyberpsychology course when I applied, and as it’s an emerging field I wanted to be part of one of the leading courses in the discipline.

I am also a generational NTU student as both of my parents studied there, so I had a bit of an insight into the quality of teaching on offer at NTU."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

"The Cyberpsychology course offered insight into many of the applications of technology I had been interested in, as well as presenting me with new applications. This led to my interest into auditory perception, which then went onto inform my PhD application.

One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to design and run my own research. This wasn’t an opportunity that really presented itself during my undergraduate course and it was exciting to do so in my MSc."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"During my MSc I had the opportunity to present my dissertation findings at a conference in Magdeburg, Germany. It was an amazing opportunity to meet other academics in the field and hear about other upcoming research. With the support of my supervisor we were able to provide a presentation on the cognitive mechanisms of text-to-speech, all while building my own presentation and networking skills."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"To me Social Sciences are most about transforming lives and supporting people. Much of my interest in text-to-speech narration is derived from how it can be used as an assistive technology for those with visual impairments.

Cyberpsychology also allowed for me see the applications of Social Science in explaining online phenomena such as fake news or social media addictions. It was one of the many applications I hadn’t really considered before applying but presented an avenue to understanding these situations."

On Placement...

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience – where did you go, what did you do, what skills have you gained and what have you enjoyed the most?

"During my Masters I completed a placement with Launchpad Reading, a supported housing charity based in Reading. Due to the pandemic at the time the organisation was looking for some guidance on digital safeguarding for their volunteers, which I wrote a consultancy report on as part of the course. This was well received by Launchpad who were grateful for the input given the unique situation."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"It was fantastic to work with Launchpad’s project team in improving their systems. While our interaction was remote, their support was always exceptional. Even though circumstances made things a bit more difficult, interacting with their friendly and supportive members of staff was always a highlight."

Support...

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"Support at NTU was and still is exceptional. All the members of staff were very supportive, even given the exceptional circumstances faced during my MSc. I never felt like I was without support at any point, and I always knew who to contact if I was struggling with anything.

A special mention should go to my dissertation supervisor, who offered me great support and opportunities during my masters. As it was my first time doing my own research it was fantastic to have someone able to advise me on anything I need. I’m forever grateful that I’ve been able to continue my research with them as my PhD supervisor."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

"Despite not being able to meet face-to-face, NTU still did an excellent job at putting everyone on our course in contact with one another. They provided various opportunities for us to get to know each other online.

Now I’m back at NTU and things are back to normal it’s been even easier, and I feel I have become a part of a very welcoming academic community."

The Next Steps…

What’s next for you after NTU?

"My plan after the conclusion of my PhD is pursue a lectureship in Psychology."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU has offered me some great opportunities to get experience towards this goal, including lecturing experience on the undergraduate course. Outside of this I have been offered a wide range of opportunities to support the university and promote the course, such as through the NTU Alumni Program."

Has the employability team helped you plan for life beyond NTU as a postgraduate student?

"The employability team has offered me invaluable information on how best to pursue my future career aspirations, with specific advice on necessary experience and how to format an appropriate CV."