Emma Bailey

‘No research without action, no action without research.’ Kurt Lewin

Lewin (1890-1947) was a German-American social psychologist. He’s known for his theory that human behaviour is a function of our psychological environment.

As many students up and down the country start a gruelling examination timetable the college community had the opportunity to meet up with former Head Girl Emma Bailey.

Our photographs show Emma proudly submitting her Psychology dissertation.

We first met up with Emma as she joined the ranks of university students commencing their studies only for the covid pandemic to take hold. Some years on Emma talks about the road she has travelled.

The title of Emma’s Dissertation:

‘I can’t even afford to drop out’ – Experiences of non-traditional students at elite universities.

“My dissertation covered the topic of how students who may not traditionally access higher education and often do so through widening participation programmes, integrate into wider student populations at Russell Group Universities. I interviewed three first-year students and collated their experiences into a 10,000 word report.

Time Management – From Start to Submission

“I initially had the idea for my research in late August 2022 and submitted my final paper in May 2023 – so overall I spent 10 months on my thesis. This seemed a lot at first and the deadline felt so far away, so I knew I needed a plan. I made a ‘Master Timeline’ and created a rough guide of where I wanted to be every month. For example, I knew I wanted to conduct my interviews in February and have my analysis completed by the end of March. At the start of each month I dedicated two days a week solely working on my dissertation then broke the big month plan down into weekly and daily plans.

“I knew the only way to do it was to plan the smallest tasks and that way when I completed something that didn’t seem too big, it still felt like an achievement.

“I actually submitted my dissertation two weeks early, which I was really pleased about.

Preparing for her Masters

“After 4 years in Leeds, I’m ready to return to Liverpool! I have recently been accepted into Liverpool John Moores to study an MSc in Health Psychology and I can’t wait to get started. My research interests have grown this year and I am planning to do my next dissertation on an aspect of Maternity and Postnatal Mental Health.”

In conclusion, many thanks Emma for sharing this journey and story with us. We are very proud of you and look forward to seeing you back in Liverpool. Best of luck with your examinations.