Why did you decide to do the IDA Master?
I thought that IDA would be the best match for my interest in research, and my interest in growing in that field.
What has been your favourite course and why?
My favourite course is currently the first year paper (I know, perhaps not a course as normally defined as there are no central lectures), but I do enjoy the writing process! From the previous semester, psychometrics was my favourite course as it connected well with my interest in this field and my job as student assistant.
Do you experience stress/pressure in your studies? How do you deal with it?
I do experience stress, which I believe to be logical as it is a challenging program. I do however think that the pressure keeps me alert and focused on the objectives of IDA and pushes me to develop myself further. Dealing with it by putting it into perspective really works, and getting through the pressure does give me a sense of confidence for the upcoming time in IDA.
How can your knowledge from the IDA Master be useful for the real world?
One thing I especially notice is the automaticity with which I start to critically look at the things that I read. Since starting IDA, reading something makes me automatically evaluate what it means, what the implications or consequences are, and how much of something is well founded/plausible. Basically, it has made me put on my critical glasses more often than before. I believe this is extremely useful skill to have, especially nowadays with almost everyone being dependent on social media.
Why do you think it is important to study what you study?
Personally, my interest lies in forensic psychology. Even though these individuals (either incarcerated, institutionalized, or characterized by antisocial behavior) may make up a small part of the population, understanding their behaviour and the development of such behaviour is crucial for their treatment and society as a whole. I believe that everyone deserves a fair, and for them specifically efficient, treatment. Researching this field may provide a good baseline for this treatment, as well as benefits for the society (in terms of costs and danger).
What is the most fascinating thing you have learned?
Over the past half year I have grown in terms of knowledge and I have come across many fascinating facts of psychology. One of the most interesting facts to me, and honestly the best advice I have gotten in a long time, is that your brain can’t comprehend the negative… If I tell you not to think about a polar bear — Suprise! You’ll think about a polar bear. Skiers are going super fast through the trees, but focusing on the fact that the trees are there rather than the path will just cause an accident. Your brain cannot comprehend the negative, so do not focus on the obstacles, or the obstacles you think there are, focus on the path you’re taking.
What motivates you to keep studying?
I think it is a privilege in itself that I am currently able to study this specific topic for the reason of it being an interest of mine. I am grateful to be part of IDA and think that being part of such a group of motivated students motivates me do keep doing better.
How are you experiencing the relationship with your teachers?
I was a bit shocked in the beginning of IDA. Compared to my bachelor’s, we as a class have been taken very seriously and the teachers believe it’s worthwhile to hear us out. Whether it is content-based, or suggestions surrounding the curriculum, all teachers have been very open and willing to work WITH us.
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