A conversation with Tiago

I realised that I wanted a deeper scientific understanding of the brain and human behaviour.

I was already applying evidence-based approaches in my professional work, but I felt that pursuing a master's degree would allow me to critically evaluate research, strengthen my scientific skills, and contribute to the field at a higher level.

The Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health programme at King's College London felt like the perfect opportunity to bridge my practical experience with rigorous academic training.

I felt both excited and nervous.

Excited because I was joining one of the world's leading universities and entering a field that I am deeply passionate about. At the same time, I was aware of the academic challenge ahead.

My biggest hope was to develop a stronger scientific foundation in psychology and neuroscience, improve my research skills, and connect what I learned to my professional interests in mental health.

I also hoped the programme would open doors for future academic opportunities, including research collaborations and doctoral studies.

From the beginning, I knew that time management would be essential.

I created a structured weekly schedule with dedicated study blocks and treated those periods as non-negotiable commitments.

During the first few weeks, my main strategy was to become familiar with the learning platform, understand the assessment requirements, and establish a consistent study routine.

Breaking tasks into smaller goals helped me stay organised and avoid becoming overwhelmed. This approach allowed me to balance my professional responsibilities while fully engaging with the programme.

One of the most memorable moments came during the research-focused modules, when I was designing and critically evaluating scientific studies.

Before the programme, I regularly read research papers, but King's taught me how to think like a researcher rather than simply a consumer of research.

I remember working on a research project and realising that I could confidently evaluate methodology, identify limitations, and justify methodological decisions using scientific evidence.

That was the moment I felt I had developed a much deeper understanding of psychological research and neuroscience.

The skills I gained ultimately contributed to my own research being presented at an international conference and later published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Balancing postgraduate studies with my professional responsibilities while maintaining the high academic standards expected at King's was my biggest challenge.

There were periods when managing deadlines, coursework, and work commitments simultaneously required a great deal of discipline and organisation.

What helped me most was the support provided by faculty members and programme staff, who were approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in student success.

Their guidance, combined with the clear structure of the programme and access to university resources, helped me stay focused and continue progressing with confidence.

One particularly challenging moment came during the Research Skills module, when I unexpectedly lost a significant portion of my files due to a computer issue.

This happened at a critical stage of the module and created considerable uncertainty about my ability to complete and submit my work on time.

The programme director, Mark Kennedy, was incredibly helpful throughout the process, offering guidance and understanding during a very stressful period. My module lead, Jess Collins, also provided valuable support and helped me navigate the situation.

Thanks to their assistance, I was able to request an extension, recover from the setback, and successfully complete the module.

That experience reinforced one of the things I appreciated most about King's: not only the academic excellence, but also the genuine support provided by faculty and staff when students face unexpected challenges.

The programme has fundamentally changed the way I approach mental health, research, and professional practice.

It has given me the scientific training and confidence to contribute more meaningfully to the field through research, education, and evidence-based interventions.

I now feel empowered to help bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding of mental health.

Through my work, I hope to promote greater access to evidence-based psychological approaches and contribute to improving mental health outcomes within my community and beyond.

Time management is essential.

Create a consistent routine, break larger tasks into manageable goals, and don't be afraid to ask for support when challenges arise.

The programme is demanding, but the knowledge, confidence, and skills you develop make the journey worthwhile.