-300mm.jpg){kind=logo}
by Dr Marianne Trent & Ananya Mosur Sridhar
This article has been adapted from episode 136 of The Aspiring psychologist Podcast. If you prefer you can listen here or watch here.
In a recent episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent sits down with Ananya Mosur Sridhar to explore the unique challenges and triumphs faced by non-UK citizens pursuing a psychology career in the UK. Ananya’s journey from India to becoming an assistant psychologist in the UK offers valuable lessons for aspiring psychologists everywhere.
Challenges of Pursuing Psychology in the UK
Starting a career in psychology is daunting, but for non-UK citizens, the hurdles are significantly higher. Ananya’s story highlights the additional barriers faced by international students, including visa issues, cultural adjustments, and navigating the job market. Her perseverance and determination are truly inspiring.
Academic Journey: From India to the UK
Ananya completed her undergraduate degree in Bangalore, India, majoring in journalism, psychology, and English literature. With a clear goal to pursue psychology further, she applied to various programmes in the UK and eventually chose to study at Newcastle University. Her move to the UK was marked by excitement and cultural adjustments, including adapting to the weather and accents.
Landing an Assistant Psychologist Role
Securing an assistant psychologist position is challenging even for UK nationals. For Ananya, the process involved submitting 57 applications and attending 15 interviews before finally securing a role. Her story underscores the importance of resilience and the willingness to keep trying despite setbacks.
Visa Challenges and Support
Ananya initially came to the UK on a student visa, which allowed limited work hours. Post-graduation, she applied for a post-study visa, eventually transitioning to a skilled worker visa with the support of her current employer. This transition was crucial for her to continue her career in the UK, highlighting the importance of having supportive supervisors and employers.
Embracing Opportunities and Overcoming Barriers
Working as an assistant psychologist in a crisis team, Ananya found her passion for high-risk environments and short-term interventions. Her role allows her to use compassion-focused therapy (CFT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) skills to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. She also engages in research, focusing on emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) and advocating for a more nuanced understanding of this diagnosis.
Advice for Aspiring Psychologists
Ananya shares valuable advice for those pursuing a psychology career, especially international students. She emphasises the importance of perseverance, hard work, and having a supportive network. Ananya also encourages aspiring psychologists to prioritise self-care to avoid burnout, reminding us that “you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Looking Ahead
Ananya’s ultimate goal is to secure a place in a doctoral programme and continue her career in the UK. Her journey so far is a testament to her dedication and passion for psychology. For international students and aspiring psychologists, her story provides hope and practical insights into navigating the complexities of starting a career in a new country.
Conclusion
This episode of the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast offers a deep dive into the experiences of an international student navigating the UK’s psychology landscape. Ananya Mosur Sridhar’s journey is filled with challenges and triumphs, providing valuable lessons for anyone in the field. Her story highlights the importance of resilience, support, and the willingness to embrace opportunities despite the odds.
For more inspiring stories and insights, tune in to the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast on your favourite platform.
Check out my books for Aspiring Psychologists here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/my-books
Be the first in the loop when new podcast episodes land by signing up to Dr Marianne Trent's free weekly newsletter by clicking here.
Comentarios