Calista Hindler: BSc Psychology & MSc Health Psychology

Calista Hindler

BSc Psychology, 2003 & MSc Health Psychology, 2004

“I am now a Clinical Data Analyst at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital.”

Calista studied at Luton Sixth Form College after leaving school where she achieved 3 A levels in Mathematics (with Statistics), Human Biology, and Psychology. She said: “The staff were extremely personable, especially my Psychology tutor who directed me towards my current career.

Calista found Mathematics a really hard subject and was predicted an E to begin with, however, with the support of her friends and the tutor she managed a grade C!

Calista found the library, computing resources and IT support at the college excellent. The college also offered a variety of add-on courses and Calista and some of her friends completed a Basic Course in British Sign Language.

There was also a good social scene. She said: “The social life, both in and outside college, was great – there was always something going on.”

After completing her A levels Calista was accepted into three universities but chose the University of Luton as the BSc Psychology was highly recommended and accredited by the British Psychological Society. Calista said: “I spent three really enjoyable years at the University; the staff were fantastic!”

The BSc in Psychology at the University of Luton is accredited by the British Psychological Society which means that you can achieve eligibility for Graduate Basis for Recognition (GBR) status. The course offered several pathways including Health Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Social Psychology; with other core subjects such as Research Methods. Calista also chose other modules including Psychology of Art, which she found very valuable in gaining a wide knowledge base.

Calista graduated with a first class honours degree in 2003 and decided to continue her studies on the MSc in Health Psychology. This is the first stage to becoming a Chartered Psychologist. She completed the course in 2004.

Calista said: “The MSc in Health Psychology deepened my health psychology knowledge. It also helped me to become more of an independent thinker, and develop my skills in critical analysis. The course was demanding, and a step up from the undergraduate course in terms of workload and developing into an independent thinker.” Calista found the staff very supportive and made the time to answer questions and queries.

Calista said: “I have really enjoyed my time at the University of Luton, I certainly didn’t want to leave! I am now armed with the necessary qualifications and skills to achieve my career goals for which I am very thankful.”

In July 2004 Calista started working as a Research Assistant, working for the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. She said: “I believe that my research experience and qualifications were essential in securing this position.”

In January 2005 Calista began her current job as a Clinical Data Analyst at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital. She has found that her analytical, statistical and report writing skills proved extremely useful for this job.

Calista plans to stay in her current role for a couple of years to gain experience within the health service, after which she would like to do the Stage 2 course (Doctorate) or a PhD. She then hopes to find a job specific to her training.

Calista said: “I would strongly recommend the University of Luton for those considering a career as a Chartered Psychologist. It has helped me each step of the way!”

Interview took place in 2005.