Empowered by Education: Reia Sigrist Advances to MSc in Applied Psychology at UWTSD

For Reia Sigrist, joining the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) wasn’t just about earning a degree, it was about finding a place to grow, connect, and thrive. As a mature student and mother of two, Reia brought unique life experience to her studies and found at UWTSD the support and encouragement she needed to succeed. 

Reia’s story is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the transformative power of education.

Reia’s path to UWTSD was driven by a deep curiosity about human behaviour and a desire to positively impact mental health. Seeking a university that valued personal connection, academic rigour, and applied learning, she found the ideal fit at UWTSD.

“I was looking for a supportive environment with smaller class sizes and strong pastoral care,” said Reia, who lives in Swansea. “UWTSD stood out for its welcoming atmosphere and focus on practical, applied psychology. I’ve grown both academically and personally during my time here.”

Drawn to psychology for its power to understand and improve people’s lives, Reia immersed herself in studies spanning mental health, cognitive psychology, and research methodology. A key highlight of her course was her dissertation, which explored the relationship between personality traits and workplace behaviour, an independent research project that sharpened her analytical and critical thinking skills.

Reia also gained hands-on experience through volunteer work at a local primary school, where she observed early mental health interventions and the vital role of schools in emotional wellbeing. These experiences helped shape her evolving interests and long-term goals.

“I want to work in a role that helps people overcome psychological challenges and improve their quality of life,” she explained. “The course helped me refine those ambitions and gave me the skills to pursue them.”

Reia’s time at UWTSD was not without its challenges. She navigated the demands of higher education while raising two young children, including giving birth to her second child during her second year. Through strong time management, perseverance, and the university’s academic and wellbeing support, she remained committed to her studies and achieved her goals.

“It wasn’t easy, but I learned to prioritise, stay organised, and lean on the support available, especially from my lecturers and classmates. That sense of community really made a difference.”

Now preparing to continue her academic journey with an MSc in Applied Psychology at UWTSD, Reia is excited to delve deeper into cyberpsychology, a field that examines the impact of digital environments on human behaviour and mental health.

“Throughout my undergraduate studies, I discovered a passion for how technology intersects with psychology. I’m eager to explore that further and find ways to apply it in meaningful, evidence-based ways.”

Reia highly recommends the psychology course to prospective students:

“The course offers a solid academic foundation and encourages personal growth. You’re not just a number – you are part of a community where your voice matters.”

Further Information

Arwel Lloyd

Principal PR and Communications Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email:  arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467076