Ian Asquith

Why did you choose Kent?

When applying for university, Kent was highlighted to me as a good place to study psychology. When I visited, the course and the University really won me over and I knew it would be the place for me. I was interested in a career in clinical psychology and the degree offered specific modules in this area, which appealed to me. I also liked the idea of taking a placement year.

What was your degree course like?

I really enjoyed the course and it has given me a fantastic foundation for my career path. The lectures provided a strong introduction to psychology, where application to the real world was always emphasised. The teaching staff made a real effort to keep the subject matter accessible, interesting and stimulating. By undertaking a placement year, I then had the opportunity to develop that psychological knowledge within a work setting.

What did you do in your spare time?

In my first year I managed to get a great job on campus working for

the IT service desk, which I really enjoyed! I also volunteered at the local mental health hospital, and another local charity, to increase my job prospects after University. I was also a member of the Psychology Society, which held weekly talks and socials from time to time.

Could you describe your career path since leaving Kent?

After leaving Kent, I got a job in the NHS, working as an assistant psychologist. A year later, I was accepted onto the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a three-year training programme that is the stepping stone to becoming a clinical psychologist. I am also on the committee of the Faculty for the Psychology for Older People, a branch of the British Psychological Society, as their Pre-Qualification Representative; this role involves promoting older people’s psychology to those considering a career in clinical psychology.

Could you describe a typical day in your current role?

My current role is split; at the beginning of the week, I might spend the day in lectures and teaching about clinical psychology, which could include psychotherapy, mental health and research among other things. The second half of the week is spent working with clients in an NHS service to build up my skills as a psychologist, which could be in a variety of settings.

What are your plans for the future?

In the near future, I aim to complete my studies on the Doctorate programme and become a qualified clinical psychologist. From there, I would be looking to get a job with the NHS as a clinical psychologist, hopefully working with older people.

Do you have any other memories of Kent that you would like to share?

One of the amazing things I took away from Kent was that I managed to make plenty of good friends, many of whom I remain in contact with now. I have fond memories of Canterbury city centre, too – it’s a great place where I spent many happy days and nights. I also remember the summer balls, which were a perfect way to round off an academic year.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of coming to Kent?

I would recommend visiting the University – the atmosphere, the campus and the opportunity to speak to the lecturers really convinced me that Kent was the place for me.