We caught up with Alumnus Tom Freeston (1st on the left) who told us all about his university journey.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m Tom, a BSc (Hons) Psychology graduate and former Vice-President Welfare and Community at Kent Students\u2019 Union from 2022 to 2024. I now work at Beat, the UK\u2019s eating disorder charity, as a Policy and Public Affairs Officer. In my role, I lobby politicians in Westminster to drive change at a national level for people affected by eating disorders – an issue I became passionate about during my degree, which inspired me to want to make a difference.<\/p>\n
As soon as I visited the campus and explored Canterbury, it just felt like somewhere I could make a home away from home – so much so, I\u2019ve been here since I started my degree in 2017 and never left! Also, the Psychology course had a great reputation and a range of modules that really interested me. And of course, the bunnies all over campus were a lovely bonus.<\/p>\n
Honestly, a mix of excitement and nerves. I was really looking forward to diving into psychology and learning more about something I was passionate about, but I was also worried about making friends and settling in. Turns out, I had nothing to worry about – it all fell into place pretty quickly!<\/p>\n
I can\u2019t pick just one, so I\u2019ll give you two! First, I loved the strong sense of academic community – everyone was so supportive, and it really felt like we were all in it together. Second, I actually really enjoyed my dissertation – yes, the bit that most people worry about! I got to explore a topic I found fascinating: the psychology behind animal abusers.<\/p>\n
There are so many, but one that really stands out is being President of the Psychology Society during my degree. I had the chance to lead a brilliant committee of students, put on careers events, help people connect with others who shared a love for psychology, and build friendships that have lasted long after university. It\u2019s something I\u2019ll always be proud of.<\/p>\n
Another huge moment was graduating with my degree. As someone who grew up on free school meals and was the first in my family to go to university, I felt like the odds were stacked against me. But the University of Kent and the School of Psychology offered so much support – both academic and pastoral – to make sure that everyone, no matter their background, could succeed. I\u2019m proud to be one of those students who did, despite the statistics.<\/p>\n
The careers and employability support at Kent was fantastic! It gave me the chance to explore interests beyond my degree – like joining the ASPIRE business start-up workshops, where I learned the basics of launching a side hustle. I also really valued the Employability Points Scheme, which let us earn points for taking part in co-curricular activities and then redeem them for work experience and internship opportunities at the end of the year.<\/p>\n
The Careers and Employability Service really came through when I was looking for part-time work – they reviewed my CV and gave me loads of helpful advice and tips to boost my chances of landing a part-time role while studying. A top tip: many students don\u2019t realise you can still access the Careers and Employability Service for up to three years after you graduate!<\/p>\n
After completing my Psychology degree and serving as Vice-President Welfare and Community at Kent Students\u2019 Union, I discovered a real passion for campaigning – especially around mental health. I had the chance to lead campaigns to improve mental health support for students on campus, combining both my academic background and my drive to make a difference. Now, I\u2019m continuing that work as Policy and Public Affairs Officer at Beat, the UK\u2019s eating disorder charity. Looking ahead, I hope to keep making a difference for those affected by mental health issues and to give back to the University of Kent wherever I can – it gave me so much, and I\u2019ll always be proud to be part of its community.<\/p>\n
Always believe in yourself – you\u2019re far more capable than you think. It\u2019s easy to feel like you don\u2019t belong or that everyone else has it all figured out, but imposter syndrome is just noise. Trust your journey, take opportunities as they come, and don\u2019t be afraid to ask for support. You deserve to be here just as much as anyone else.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"