Category Archives: College

Reflecting on the Organizational Psychology Summer Seminar – Existing in Uncertain Times

The Department of Organizational Psychology recently hosted an inspiring Summer Seminar on the theme “Existing in Uncertain Times”.

a line of six people stood in front of a stage with a projector screen behind them.

Photo of the Summer Seminar Speakers, (L to R) Dr. Uracha Chatrakul Na Ayudhya, Dr. Caroline Kamau-Mitchell, Aretha Rutherford, Cathy Lee, Dr. Hayley Lewis, Dr. Pedro Gomes

The event held on the 12 July at Birkbeck, University of London was filled with thought-provoking presentations and discussions, exploring the complexities of our ever-changing world and the ways we can navigate through uncertainty.

Celebrating Birkbeck’s Intellectual Pioneers

Dr. Caroline Kamau-Mitchell delivered a captivating keynote talk, commemorating Birkbeck’s 200-year anniversary by celebrating the institution’s intellectual pioneers. The audience embarked on a journey through history, paying tribute to inspiring figures such as Rosalind Franklin, Aaron Klug, Patrick Blackett, and others, who made groundbreaking contributions to various fields, from science to the arts. The talk emphasized how connecting with the shared identity of these pioneers can help organizations find meaning amidst change and drive occupational health.

Journey into the unknown

Dr. Hayley Lewis, an award-winning psychologist with extensive experience in occupational and organizational psychology, shared her journey as a first-generation university-educated individual in her family. Her insightful talk shed light on the uncertainties she faced and how these unknowns led her to explore the psychology of women who venture into entrepreneurship, an experience often fraught with uncertainty. Dr. Lewis’ talk inspired many, demonstrating the strength and resilience needed to navigate the uncharted territories of life.

‘Friday is the New Saturday’: The economic benefits of a four-day week

Dr. Pedro Gomes, an Associate Professor in Economics at Birkbeck and author of ‘Friday is the New Saturday’, presented fascinating insights into the economic benefits of a four-day workweek. Drawing from his first-hand experience in designing a four-day week pilot in Portugal’s private sector, Dr. Gomes revealed how this innovative approach can lead to increased productivity and improved work-life balance for employees. The talk sparked lively discussions about new possibilities in reshaping the traditional work model.

Finding my voice: Hitting the highs and lows

Cathy Lee, Head of Internal Communications for a legal regulator in Birmingham, shared her personal journey of returning to academia after more than three decades. Her reflections and findings from her MSc in Organizational Psychology and research project on workplace factors retaining older workers provided valuable insights into enhancing inclusivity and diversity within the workforce.

I am an endangered species / But I sing no victim’s song

Aretha Rutherford, a recent MSc graduate in Career Management and Coaching, was joined In conversation with Dr. Uracha Chatrakul Na Ayudhya, Assistant Dean for Equalities and Diversity at the School of Business, Economics, and Informatics (BEI) and Senior Lecturer and Programme Director of MSc Human Resource Management. They delved into the complexities of self-perception, social identities, and career development for underrepresented groups. Their intersectional analysis shed light on the cultural and contextual factors that influence career choices.

The Summer Seminar concluded on a high note, leaving attendees with a sense of empowerment and a deeper understanding of how to thrive amidst uncertainty. The conference brought together current students, alumni, and staff to celebrate Birkbeck’s 200-year history.

Further Information:

Share

“Birkbeck is an inclusive, diverse and supportive environment” 

MA Film and Screen Media graduate, Charlie Gardiner, shares her thoughts on how studying helped her gain both personal and professional confidence, progressing her career in the film industry. 

Getting started in the film industry  

After completing my BA Hons in Film, I worked in and around the film industry: I was part of the studio team at a leading company in the casting world, an assistant at a voice talent agency, and a freelance film journalist. While my career was off to a good start, when the pandemic hit, I felt like I needed more: I felt the urge to go back to education.  

When education fits around life 

One of the main reasons I chose Birkbeck was because of the evening classes. At the time that I decided to study, I was working part-time and partially furloughed due to the pandemic, so I wasn’t sure how my timetable would look if I was called back into full-time work. It was a comfort to know that if my daytime work schedule changed (which it did), I could continue my studies. The fact that I’d always heard good things about Birkbeck was a bonus – I knew it would be a great place to study.  

With studying comes confidence 

Studying for my Master’s gave me the confidence to apply for jobs outside of my comfort zone. Not only did I have more knowledge about the industry, I had also proven to myself that I have excellent time management skills and drive – pursuing a full-time Master’s whilst also working full-time was no small feat! The experience helped me realise that anyone can achieve what they hope to if they set their mind to it. With my degree and new outlook in hand, I aimed to move into a more creative area of the film industry, ideally within the visual effects (VFX) or post-production fields and I achieved my goal – I’ve just accepted a new job as Talent Coordinator at ILM, a leading VFX company!  

A positive learning environment 

The diversity of the student body was also inspiring, with people from all walks of life coming together to learn. The inclusivity from the College was great – no matter someone’s age, background or culture, we were given support and space to share ideas together. I know a lot of students don’t say this, but I actually loved writing my dissertation! I felt completely free and supported to write about whatever I wanted to – I chose a subject very close to my heart which made the process so enriching.  

Education can surprise you 

I never intended to go to university in the first place, let alone go back to do a post-graduate degree. But Birkbeck was there for me when I was in desperate need of some structure and direction. To anyone thinking of studying: if you have the time, energy and patience to dive in, then do it. Why not? Birkbeck is an inclusive, diverse and supportive environment for anyone who wants to better themselves or simply celebrate a passion. I am both grateful and proud to have studied here, and I hope it opens up doors and builds others’ confidence as it has for me. 

More information:  

Share

“Birkbeck understood my background and circumstances, and granted me the chance to achieve my dream of becoming a lawyer” 

Gladys Paulsen has just graduated with an LLB Law and Commercial Law degree and is embarking on a new career in law after a 20-year career in sales. This is her story. 

pic of graduate, Gladys Paulsen

I was only 18 years old and finishing my second year of law school in Brazil, when my father informed me that I couldn’t continue studying because of our financial situation. I was heartbroken. 

I decided to embark on a different career and entered the aviation sales industry, working tirelessly to improve our family’s circumstances. Over 20 years, I worked my way up the ladder to a Regional Sales Manager position.  

After a prosperous career, three years ago I decided to pursue my ambition of becoming a human rights lawyer once again. I chose Birkbeck because it was rated as one of the best universities for law in England, and it’s well known in the law field as being one of the best. It was an easy decision! Fortunately, Birkbeck understood my background and circumstances, and granted me the chance to achieve my dream, whilst continuing to work full time.  

Being a Birkbeck student has been fantastic for my career. I’ve been introduced to great law firms through pupillage seminars, and I was able to serve as a volunteer for the Refugee Law Clinic during my studies, as well as being a policy researcher for the Environmental Law Foundation Policy Clinic. Birkbeck provided me with an exceptional mentor who guided me through the process of becoming a commercial lawyer. I’ve found that having a University of London degree adds huge weight to my CV as the University of London is one of the most respected universities in the country. As well as setting me up for my future, through Birkbeck I’ve made friends for life, from a variety of cultures and ages, who I go out for dinner and drinks with, as well as going to the opera house.  

Studying wasn’t without its challenges – English isn’t my native tongue; I was diagnosed with dyslexia during my studies; and my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer in my second year. However, Birkbeck provided me with the necessary assistance. I am so appreciative of the mental health, disability support and learning support help I received, which has meant I’ve earned a first-class degree in Law! 

pic of Gladys and family

My entire family is flying over from Brazil to attend my Graduation, as well as my sister, who has won her fight against cancer. I am forever grateful to Birkbeck for providing me with the opportunity to study and assisting me in achieving my dream.  

Further information 

Share