Cassie Aggio
BSc Psychology
What made you choose to study Psychology as a subject and at Bangor?
I only started learning about psychology when I started my A-levels. I had always been interested in psychology, but I never really thought to do any extra research before I started learning about it during A-levels. Once I started it, I very quickly became interested in so many areas of psychology from child psych to forensic psych.
When I started looking at universities, I didn’t know what I was really looking for. However, when I came to Bangor, I realised how I loved being surrounded by trees and knowing that I could walk down to the pier and listen to the water.
The other aspect that made me choose 58³Ô¹Ï was the modules that the course offered. When you get to year 3, you can choose between a wide variety of modules, and I preferred the modules that Bangor were offering.
What has been your favourite module or topic so far, and why?
Since starting university, there’s been a wide range of modules, but my two favourites have probably been Criminal Psychology and Brain & Mind. Criminal Psychology is really interesting because it explores why offending behaviour happens and how psychological and environmental factors can influence it. We’ve also looked at how evidence is collected and the procedures involved in investigations. I’ve also really enjoyed Brain & Mind because it focuses on both human and animal behaviour, which makes the module really diverse. My favourite part of Brain & Mind was being able to hold a real human brain, look closely at it, and name a lot of the different areas.
What has surprised you most about studying Psychology?
The module that has most surprised me since starting university is Applied Psychology. I didn’t realise how much we use psychology in our everyday lives. For example, I didn’t realise how price can change our opinion of a product. There are so many ways that the price of a product can influence whether we purchase it or not, and if we see it as valuable or not. I was also surprised how much we use psychology for advertising. The font, colour, and size of advertising matters so you can catch the attention of a consumer. This allows for the correct message of the advertisement to be conveyed properly to the consumer.
What do you like most about living and studying in Bangor?
The thing I most enjoy about living in Bangor is how it's close to such beautiful and natural scenery. Another positive thing is that the cost of living is a lot cheaper compared to other universities. This means that I’m able to manage my finances more efficiently and stress free throughout my time at university whilst focusing on my studies. Everywhere in Bangor is in close proximity so it makes it convenient for attending lectures and other facilities like the library. 58³Ô¹Ï has a wide range of study spaces around campus, which means you will always find a study spot which will accommodate you. Also, most of these study spots have amazing views.
Do you have a favourite place on campus or in Bangor?
My absolute favourite spot on campus is on level 3 of Pontio. I will always go here if I need to do any work. I love being able to look out over the café which is on level 2 and just people watch. This sounds distracting but this is the only way for me to actually start focusing on my work. I also like working on level 5 of Pontio which has the quiet study area and group study area. The group study area is very helpful when there is a group project due since you can all meet there and work on the project.
One of my favourite places to go off campus is to any coffee shop on the high street. I like little day trips out to grab a coffee with my friends or even by myself. Bangor has quite a few coffee shops and I do recommend trying them all out.
What are your plans after graduation?
After I graduate from 58³Ô¹Ï with my bachelor’s degree, I am hoping to study Forensic Psychology at a master’s degree level. Ever since I started learning about psychology in 6-form, I have always been intrigued by forensic psychology. I was going to study it for my undergraduate but realised that I wanted to get a proper overview of psychology. Once I have finished my master’s degree, I would love to have a PhD in Forensic Psychology. I love the idea of being an expert in a certain topic and, of course, being called a ‘doctor’. If I don’t manage to get a PhD, I will try and work my way up in the field with my master’s degree and lots or work experience.