I know, I can't believe it either! However, there's a certificate with my name on saying 'Master of Science' and I was able to wear this hat (see figure 1) - so therefore - it is true!
What's next...
Doing a Doctorate - the dyslexic way.
What is Dyslexia?
"Dyslexia is a learning difference which primarily affects reading and writing skills. However, it does not only affect these skills. Dyslexia is actually about information processing. Dyslexic people may have difficulty processing and remembering information they see and hear, which can affect learning and the acquisition of literacy skills. Dyslexia can also impact on other areas such as organisational skills." (www.bdadyslexia.org.uk, 2021).
Following a Diagnostic Assessment in 2016, I was formally identified as having Specific Learning Difficulties with features of Dyslexia. The main findings from my assessments highlighted my 'relative weakness in working memory, my reading, writing and arithmetic, all of which impact on my working memory, also my inadequate phonological processing abilities can effect connecting the letter patterns with the associated sounds'. Besides that I seem able to navigate the academic arena and workplace with some success, so I will keep going! I am pleased I had the assessment as it provided me with a clearer picture of my cognitive profile and my strengths and weaknesses. This has helped me put support and stratergies in place which help to ensure my efforts are as effective as possible.
Carrying on Studying..
Not so many people get offered a place on a professional doctorate programme and seeing that I have - I thought to myself, well, why not! I must maximise the opportunity. I am going to share my experience of the prof doc. Not only to make sure I am working as a reflective practitioner, student and professional, but also so that I have 'publicialy' shared my endeavours and therefore feel a sense of accounatbility (just in case anyone does actually read my posts).
"I won't give up, even when I feel like I can't carry on".
When I grow up I want to be a Health Psychologist? What is one of those?!
Health psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and health to promote general well-being and understand physical illness.
They are specially trained to help people deal with the psychological and emotional aspects of health and illness as well as supporting people who are chronically ill.
Health psychologists promote healthier lifestyles and try to find ways to encourage people to improve their health. Health psychologist also use their skills to try to improve the healthcare system. For example, they may advise doctors about better ways to communicate with their patients" (BPS, 2021).
My area of interest is older adults, particullarly those who are living with neurological disorders. I have experience working with people who have dementias' and this is where I will continue my research throughout my doctorate.
My special area of interest are the relationships, intimacy and sexual wellbeing amongst this population, ensuring the rightlful inclusion of LGBTQ+ communities and not researching solely from a heteronormative lens (which seems to dominate much of the recent literature).
Signing off...
Please do keep intouch, I really hope that I share information that is interesting and enjoyable! Will look forward to hearing your feedback!
With all my best wishes,
Amy x
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