Every year, we ask students about their experiences of IDA and their valuable tips and insights for prospective students. In this blog, we have Jari’s interview. Enjoy the read!
What inspired you to pursue the IDA Master program?
I initially started a Bachelor degree in psychology because I thought I wanted to do clinical work. I realized halfway through the degree I am more interested in science than in clinical practice and therefore a researcher master was the next step. IDA seemed like a good fit because of the opportunity to work with multiple supervisors and the small cohort dynamic.
What motivates you to pursue this field of study, and what personal significance or purpose do you find in it?
We need good social scientists to solve some of our most complex problems. I hope to do my part and make a small contribution to understanding those issues.
Which field do you see yourself pursuing after completing the program?
Academia
Looking at the program schedule, which course(s) are you most excited about and why?
I am most excited to write the Master’s thesis because it provides the opportunity to go really in depth on one topic for an extended period of time.
Do you ever feel stressed or under pressure in your studies? How do you manage those challenges? Would you like to share some tips?
I rarely feel stressed in my studies. A few things that help me:
- realizing grades / exams are unimportant, it’s about learning,
- have a strong reason to complete the program and
- remind myself of the responsibility that we have to develop psychology into a strong productive science.
How do you see the skills and knowledge from the IDA Master being applied in the real world?
I think they provide the foundations to think critically on scientific issues.
What do you enjoy most about collaborating with your peers, supervisors, or being part of the IDA community?
I think in IDA we do a good job at fostering an environment that fosters discussion, debate and sharing contrasting points of view on topics we cover.
How would you describe your relationship with the faculty in the IDA program? How does this influence your overall learning experience?
Generally, we (students) have close relationships with faculty. I find lecturers and supervisors incredibly approachable and available for questions. Even if those questions are sometimes not directly related to course material. I think this is a real strength of the program where we are able to have open conversations about topics related to the social sciences including what it is like to work in academia.
How would you describe an “IDA Student”? What common qualities do they share, and who do you think is best suited for this program?
To do well in the IDA program I think it is important for students to be genuinely curious. While strong organizational and time management skills are important, these can be developed along the way. But I’d say coming in with a strong sense of intellectual curiosity is crucial to excel but also enjoy the program.
Is there anything you wish you had known before starting that would have made your journey smoother, and what advice (or tip) would you give to someone just beginning the program?
My advice would be to think of these two years as an opportune time to really push your own boundaries and find your limits (to do so you might sometimes have to surpass them). Right now, you’re in an incredibly supportive environment to do so. Take difficult courses and try projects that you think are out of reach. You’ll develop confidence, learn way more along the way and get to know yourself better.
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