Graduate profile

Marianna Dalkou

"I'm currently working as a Psychologist in a rehabilitation centre for disabled children in Thessaloniki, Greece. After the completion of my studies I knew that I'd made the right decision as health psychology is a very broad field offering great opportunities in many different domains."

Course

Health Psychology MSc

My course

I chose the University of Surrey because of its reputation and the very good ranking it had in university tables. I chose to study MSc Health Psychology as the lecturers, like Jane Ogden and Mark Cropley, are some of the most prominent figures in the field.

The best thing is that the course provided us with a variety of very interesting modules and taught us how to critically evaluate scientific data. I am grateful that after the completion of my MSc I further improved my research skills.

I really enjoyed the seminars that were held in the university campus addressed only to health psychology postgraduate students. During these seminars I had the chance to learn very enlightening things related to my field and also useful information and tips about job opportunities.

My most memorable moment

Being at Surrey was one of the best experiences of my life and when I think about my time in the university a big smile always crosses my face. Even though I was away from my home country, the University offered me a great sense of security and hospitality. I knew that if I had any problem it would be solved in minutes.

Something that I will never forget is the first thing that Mark Cropley, the Programme Leader, told us in our first lecture: “be aware... during your MSc you have to remember that time flies.” He was so right. Last but not least, one of the best things that happened to me was that I had the opportunity to meet some amazing people and to make new friends for life.

"I chose to study MSc Health Psychology as the lecturers, like Jane Ogden and Mark Cropley, are some of the most prominent figures in the field."

My career and development

I'm currently working as a Psychologist in a rehabilitation centre for disabled children in Thessaloniki, Greece. After the completion of my studies I knew that I'd made the right decision as health psychology is a very broad field offering great opportunities in many different domains. I wanted to further improve my knowledge and put into action what I had learned regarding public health and especially to design and implement health interventions.  

I've also returned to education as a PhD student in the Department of Hygiene at the University of Thessaloniki. I get to conduct my own research and I'm designing an intervention. This will give me the opportunity to test myself and my skills to find a deeper understanding of behaviour.

I really like learning about the great things that student and staff at Surrey are accomplishing. I was thrilled when I read about the high rankings and the amazing new laboratories and research taking place. Being connected through the alumni network makes me feel that I can come back at any time and also fills me with pride that I am a graduate of such a great university.

My advice

Critically evaluate everything you read, be creative, be patient and enjoy the ride!

Find out more about our health psychology course

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