One month in.
If I had to sum up the first four weeks of my MSc in Psychology, I’d say it’s been equal parts exciting, overwhelming, and surprisingly grounding. There’s something about finally stepping into something you’ve wanted for so long that feels surreal. For months, it was all talk, planning, and anticipation. Now it’s real: lectures, readings, essays, deadlines.
The Adjustment
The biggest shift hasn’t just been academic, it’s been practical. Learning how to fit studying around full-time work and everything else life throws at me has been the real challenge. Some evenings I’ve flown through my readings, fascinated by a new concept, and other nights I’ve stared blankly at the screen wondering if my brain had already clocked out for the day.
I’m learning that the key is less about rigid timetables and more about finding pockets of focus. An hour here, thirty minutes there. Sometimes it’s enough to keep the momentum going.
The Content
This first month has reminded me why I signed up in the first place. Every time I dive into a topic on the brain, memory, or human behaviour, I feel that spark. The reminder that this is where my curiosity lives. Concepts like neuroplasticity or the effects of social conditioning aren’t just abstract ideas anymore; I can connect them to real conversations I’ve had, moments I’ve lived, and patterns I’ve seen play out in people (myself included).
The Feelings
Of course, there have been doubts. I’ve caught myself thinking: Can I actually do this? What if I fall behind? What if I’m not smart enough for this level of study anymore? But then I just grasp a tricky concept, and I feel that rush of reassurance. It’s proof that I can do this, even if it’s messy, even if it takes trial and error.
What I’ve Learned So Far
- Consistency beats intensity. A little every day adds up.
- Curiosity is the best motivator. When I follow what interests me, the work feels lighter.
- Perfectionism is the enemy. It’s better to hand in “good enough” than to burn out chasing flawless.
Looking Ahead
One month down, many more to go. I know the honeymoon phase will dip, deadlines will pile up, and motivation will ebb and flow. But right now, I’m choosing to celebrate this milestone: I started, I’ve kept going, and I’m already learning more than I expected, not just about psychology, but about myself.
Month one has been about finding my rhythm. Here’s to seeing what month two brings.
Mind with Samantha 
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