Jemimah Grindell

What are your top 3 favourite things about Swansea (the city/area)?

The parks are definitely top of the list (especially the Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park and Clyne gardens), the beaches and the Gower are a very close second, then probably Swansea’s size as a city.

Are you/have you been part of a society?

I am part of the University’s Chamber choir and I have been part of the Christian Union. My experience of both has been a really positive one, and they have given me amazing friends and extremely worthwhile experiences. 

Have you lived in halls during your studies?

I lived in Cefn Bryn in my first year. My experience was mixed, I found halls hard. I lived in a flat of 18 which was very challenging for me, and our time was cut short in 2020. However, I’m very glad I had the experience, and it gave me truly great friends I’m still close with now.

Why did you choose to study your degree at Swansea?

I loved how Swansea felt as a university. I only live in Bridgend too, so I loved how close it was to my family. I remember going the open day while I was still doing my a-levels, and my dad and I agreed it just felt like a second home to me almost immediately. It still does today almost 3 years later.

What is your favourite thing about your course?

I love how broad my course is. Psychology sets you up so well for a huge range of possible futures. That’s amazing to me! From the biology of the brain to social aspects of society, psychology covers it all. I love that.

How have you found studying during the pandemic?

Definitely challenging. It has had its advantages and online assessments absolutely suit my learning style better than traditional exams. But keeping motivated and feeling like you’re part of the university experience online was very hard. Overall, I think Swansea did (and is still doing) a great job at adapting to the change and accommodating for a truly difficult couple years

What are you planning/hoping to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I’m planning to get some great experience and volunteer work within the psychology sector, hopefully involving children and vulnerable adults. After a couple years of experience, I plan to do my master’s in music therapy or play therapy.

Would you recommend Swansea University to other students? Why?

I would definitely recommend Swansea University to other students. It has an amazing feel as a university. There’s a Dylan Thomas quote where he says, “This sea-town was my world”. I think that’s what Swansea and the University become when you’ve lived here. There’s such a pull to love it, and the university itself is great for so many things. My friends and I have big love for this place, I would definitely recommend.