Ashlee Ryan-Rose's ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø Experience
Hi! I’m Ashlee Ryan-Rose, a 29-year-old mature student at ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø. Three transformative years have flown by, reshaping my life in ways I never imagined.
Key Stats
Name: Ashlee Ryan-Rose
Course: Psychology and Counselling (BSc)
Previous Studies: Access to Humanities and Social Sciences
Hometown: Swansea
Ashlee Ryan-Rose's Programme Name Experience
Ashlee’s Psychology and Counselling Experience
What is your favourite thing about Swansea campus?
One aspect I truly appreciated about the IQ campus was the outstanding academic resources it provided. The state-of-the-art facilities, well-equipped library, and abundant study areas throughout the campus created an ideal environment for learning.
Also, how can I not mention the campus surroundings – whether you’d like a trip to the shops, a tasty meal, or unwind with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline, the IQ campus has it all within a short distance.
Why did you choose ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø?
ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø not only holds a distinguished reputation but also offers a wide variety of psychology programmes that directly align with my career goal of becoming a counselling psychologist. On a personal note, maintaining a healthy balance between professional commitments, academic pursuits, and self-care is extremely important to me. Nestled in a picturesque location, the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø campus is just a stone’s throw away from the serene coastline. This unique setting provides the perfect balance of nature and academia, offering an ideal environment for students to thrive and excel in their pursuits.
What did you enjoy outside your studies?
As an aspiring psychologist, I appreciate the importance of self-care and nurturing to maintain a healthy balance in my life-practices that proved invaluable during the demanding years of my academic journey. Outside of my studies, you can find me immersed in nature, whether that’s bike riding along the scenic coast, or marvelling at the underwater world on my snorkelling adventures off Mumbles Pier. Of course, Swansea is a foodie’s paradise, so there is always plenty of choices for exquisite restaurants to finish the day.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
During my academic journey, I have been fortunate enough to acquire a wealth of knowledge and practical experience that has positioned me as a desirable candidate in the mental health sector. Within the next two weeks I will be embarking on a new professional endeavour as an LGBT+ Specialist Support Worker and Programme Facilitator for victims of domestic violence at Calan DVS. My long-term aspiration is to return to academia and continue enhancing my qualifications and experience with the aim of becoming a licensed counselling psychologist.
What is your favourite thing about Psychology and Counselling?
I’d have to say my favourite aspect of the BSc Psychology and Counselling degree is each amazing person that makes up the Psychology lecturing cohort that is there to support you each step of the way. As a mature student who hasn’t been in education for over a decade, I was apprehensive about returning. However, the lecturers have been incredible, taking the time to ensure I understand the material and offer guidance when I need it. Beyond lecturing, the cohort always fostered an engaging classroom environment that promoted critical thinking and discussion. Their passion for psychology and psychotherapy is inspirational! 
Would you recommend ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø and Why?
The BSc Psychology and Counselling course has been truly transformative for my career trajectory. Not only has it equipped me with invaluable knowledge and resources to support individuals facing mental health challenges, but during my second-year placement, I had the incredible opportunity to put theory into practice while working alongside mental health practitioners at Swansea Mind. Due to my commitment to the cause and the knowledge imparted by the exceptional psychology cohort, I was offered a 10-month contract as a mental health practitioner. This hands-on experience has been invaluable, allowing me to directly apply the concepts learned in the classroom to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
