Basic Psychology Student 101

“Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean that it is not real?” - Albus Dumbledore. The information contained in this BuzzPost is strictly for entertainment purposes. It in no way reflects the opinions of the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences. Laughing, giggling smiling, chuckling and snickering are highly encouraged. Remember, our Psychology students have a sense of humor -- you should, too! :)

1. Sigmund Freud is Patriarch

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Sure, all of his ideas were not as valid as most theorists today would prefer, but Dr. Freud paved much of the foundation of Psychology as a science today. His interest and clinical trials serve as some of the first valid attempts at explaining the unconscious. And even though we are not all dependent on our "animalistic" tendencies to guide us, we still have much to thank him for.

2. Research is a Necessity

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To prosper in the field, registering for a research lab is in every PSY student's best interest. The wonderful thing about the University of Kentucky is our establishment as a research institution. Following suit, our Psychology Department is booming with opportunities ranging from animal labs to video game analyses.

3. 'Tis Not All Fun and Games

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Many times Psychology is labeled as an easy degree program; however, Psychology, like any science, has its challenges. Statistics and neuropsychopharmacology are two classes coming to mind - in addition to the occasional biology and chemistry course if toxicity is something of interest to the student.

4. P < 0.05?

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The most useful skill set of the Psychology major is statistical analyses (ANOVA, F-Statistic, etc.). Researchers use analyses to decipher and make sense of experimental results for publication. As scientists who will eventually conduct independent research, having a strong understanding of such concepts is highly recommended and beneficial.

5. Becoming Comfortable with the Human Body (at least the brain)

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Brain and Behavior is the PSY student's first introduction to the anatomy of the brain, followed by literal interaction with various brains for a deeper understanding of the lobes and their functions. As such, we must learn quickly how to be comfortable with both human and animal brains (in the flesh). By doing so, our appreciation for what makes us unique grows exponentially.

6. Avoiding Self Diagnosis

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Perhaps our biggest challenge is learning to maintain intrigue in cognitive/behavioral deficits without seeing symptoms arise in ourselves. Brain malfunctions require a diagnosis either from a licensed professional or medical doctor, and as such cannot be classified based on common undergraduate knowledge.

7. Professors are Pals

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Something special about Psychology faculty at UK is how friendly and helpful they are. Many professors work and speak with us more like colleagues than students, which makes relationship building tremendously easy. Not to mention our faculty consists of the most quirky and fun group of academics ever to grace the planet!

8. Maneuvering Textbooks

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Textbooks have a reputation for being heavy and wordy by nature. The best way to utilize a Psychology textbook is through headings and studies. Many times PSY textbooks will pair a theory with a study for memory purposes. Using this pattern proves advantageous for late night study sessions at Willy T.

9. Kastle Hall is Home

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For all things Psychology, Kastle Hall holds the answers. Not only does KH have lecture rooms and research facilities, but also the majority of our professor's and TA's offices. Throughout the building, Psychology professors of UK's past proudly grace the walls, in addition to various research studies. Let's not forget the occasional buffet of food in the front foyer!

10. Of course It Is All Happening inside of Your Head...

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Last but not least, we enjoy Psychology! The field is always bursting with updates and arguments worth chatting about over coffee with our peers. What makes our major so special is its central focus on humans. Perhaps our favorite pastime is people watching at Starbucks. We are continually surprised at how accurate all of our science is!