Throughout my undergraduate sport and exercise science degree at The University of Birmingham, I have become fascinated with the interaction between psychology and physiology and how this can affect the cardiovascular/immune system and ultimately, health. It was my dissertation and modules which first aroused this interest, and completing a critical essay, debating whether high or low cardiovascular reactivity to acute psychological stress is the most detrimental to health, further enhanced this passion. Receiving 92% for that piece of work provides evidence of my underlying enthusiasm and work ethic in this area. However, I still seek to understand more about this fascinating topic, and believe studying an MRes in Exercise and Sport Science
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For example, Completing the modules ‘cardiovascular and respiratory physiology’ and ‘psychology of physical activity promotion’ would ensure I gain a more in-depth insight into this psychology-physiology interaction. What specifically enticed me to apply for the course is the opportunity to complete a six-month research project. It would provide me with the opportunity of working with internationally renowned researchers in behavioural medicine, such as Professor Anna Whittaker, who has already inspired me as my dissertation tutor. It would also allow me to further develop my independent research skills in the laboratory setting using the world class facilities that Birmingham offer. The ground-breaking research produced by the university is the final reason why I want to complete the MRes. For example, Professors Doug Carroll and Anna Whittaker’s pioneering work into blunted stress reactivity has changed the way we view stress and health. I am already part of the university’s community, and therefore want to stay, develop my skills, and contribute, both academically and outside of the educational …show more content…
My consistently high grades, including an overall second year grade of 82%, demonstrates this and emphasises my desire to be successful. These grades were also achieved whilst working full-time in a local hotel during the academic holidays. My undergraduate modules have also provided me with the necessary knowledge to thrive in the MRes. For example, the module ‘health psychology’ has allowed me to investigate the impact of health and disease by taking a psychophysiological prospective, covering a wide spectrum of ailments. Also, ‘motivation in sport and exercise settings’ has provided me with the knowledge of techniques which can be implemented to ensure individuals are more likely to adhere to health-related interventions.
My final year research project, under the supervision of Professor Anna Whittaker, is based on cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress, and has further enhanced my knowledge in this area. It has enabled me to gain valuable hands-on experience in electrocardiogram, blood pressure and cortisol measurements, whilst also developing an understanding of electrocardiography. Gaining practical experience in a research environment of this nature, coupled with the enjoyment of writing an intellectually stimulating dissertation, has confirmed that an MRes, and research in general, is suited to
For example, Completing the modules ‘cardiovascular and respiratory physiology’ and ‘psychology of physical activity promotion’ would ensure I gain a more in-depth insight into this psychology-physiology interaction. What specifically enticed me to apply for the course is the opportunity to complete a six-month research project. It would provide me with the opportunity of working with internationally renowned researchers in behavioural medicine, such as Professor Anna Whittaker, who has already inspired me as my dissertation tutor. It would also allow me to further develop my independent research skills in the laboratory setting using the world class facilities that Birmingham offer. The ground-breaking research produced by the university is the final reason why I want to complete the MRes. For example, Professors Doug Carroll and Anna Whittaker’s pioneering work into blunted stress reactivity has changed the way we view stress and health. I am already part of the university’s community, and therefore want to stay, develop my skills, and contribute, both academically and outside of the educational …show more content…
My consistently high grades, including an overall second year grade of 82%, demonstrates this and emphasises my desire to be successful. These grades were also achieved whilst working full-time in a local hotel during the academic holidays. My undergraduate modules have also provided me with the necessary knowledge to thrive in the MRes. For example, the module ‘health psychology’ has allowed me to investigate the impact of health and disease by taking a psychophysiological prospective, covering a wide spectrum of ailments. Also, ‘motivation in sport and exercise settings’ has provided me with the knowledge of techniques which can be implemented to ensure individuals are more likely to adhere to health-related interventions.
My final year research project, under the supervision of Professor Anna Whittaker, is based on cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress, and has further enhanced my knowledge in this area. It has enabled me to gain valuable hands-on experience in electrocardiogram, blood pressure and cortisol measurements, whilst also developing an understanding of electrocardiography. Gaining practical experience in a research environment of this nature, coupled with the enjoyment of writing an intellectually stimulating dissertation, has confirmed that an MRes, and research in general, is suited to