Ilham : Hi Adèle!
Adèle : Hello Ilham!
I : Today, we have decided to discuss our experiences around the selection for a Master’s degree in psychology. But first, could you introduce yourself quickly?
A : Of course, my name is Adèle Meyer and I am in my second year of master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology. I’m 23 years old. I was born in Saint Nazaire and I live in Saint Brévin les Pins. My parents are both teachers and I have one brother who is a tennis teacher and one sister who is studying at a physiotherapy school in Belgium. In my free time I like to watch series (in English when I have the motivation). I spend time with my family, friends and boyfriend, and I love dancing, playing the violin and going to the cinema.
I : Can you tell me how was your third year of your bachelor’s degree?
A : It was the most complicated academic year for me. According to me, the teachers were very demanding, which was not a bad thing in itself because they were preparing us for the master’s program. I failed the first semester, and the exams for the second semester were held at a distance, so I was very stressed about not passing my year .I was thinking about the selection for the master’s degree and I thought it was going to penalize me.
I : In how many masters have you applied? How did you choose them?
A : What you need to know is that I did not manage to get into a master’s degree in psychology after my bachelor’s degree. The first time, I applied for many masters all over France. I was a bit lost. I didn’t know how to choose them. However, the second time, I didn’t make the same mistake. I concentrated on three masters focusing on child, adolescent and educational psychology. Indeed, these masters were related to my professional experiences and my qualifications.
I : What strategies did you put in place to complete your application?
A : After my first rejection, I decided to enroll in the third year of the Bachelor of Education sciences in order to obtain an additional degree and to continue my studies. I obtained an honors degree. That year I was also an educational assistant in a college for special needs students. I also did many hours of internship with a national educational psychologist. I think that these elements allowed me to complete my application file. I took part in the workshops offered by the university to help students write their cover letter. I wrote a complete thesis project in line with the themes proposed by the teachers of the universities in which I was applying.
I : How was your interview for the Master in Child and Adolescent Psychology in Nantes?
A : Strangely, the first time I thought I was going to get in because I was comfortable and I always managed to answer the jury’s questions. The second time, I was very stressed. I was afraid that I would not succeed like the first time and had made all this effort during a year “for nothing”. Luckily, I knew what to expect the second time around and I knew where I needed to improve. So I think I was better prepared and that’s why I felt a lot of pressure. If I had been turned down again, I think I would have said “goodbye” to my professional project .
I : How did you manage the waiting period for answers?
A : It was June, the weather was nice, so I spent my time outside. But I can remember that I would feel anxious every day when checking my inbox. The first time, I was so disappointed that I cried. The second time, I received two positive answers, it was the opposite, I was very happy.
I : Generally speaking, how did all this selection go for you on the psychic level?
A : These were two particularly stressful periods in my life. I was constantly comparing myself to other students who were applying for the same masters programs. I was afraid I wouldn’t have a chance. But with hindsight I am convinced that they were also enriching experiences that prepared me for my interviews to apply for internships and soon for jobs as a psychologist.
I : Last question, do you have any advice for third-year undergraduates who wish to pursue a master’s degree in psychology?
A : Personally, I would tend to tell students that in the first year you have to show your motivation. Having good grades is a definite asset, but it’s the professional experience that can make the difference. Having favorable comments from various professionals as well as a promise for an internship during the selection interview seem very positive to me.