Criomhthann Morrison - Social Policy

The two reasons I chose to study the BSocSc degree in UCD are, firstly, the wide variety of majors and pathways the offered after first year, and secondly, the vibrant campus life led by students themselves. With so many societies, there’s always some event taking place which you can go to as a stranger or as a regular. Within my first few weeks in UCD, I was a member of a dozen societies and found it difficult to go to all the events I wanted to be at! I eventually found myself in a number of committees, such as the Music Society and Students’ Union, enjoying running events and working with all sorts of people, both students and UCD staff. I should admit, at times it has been difficult to find a balance between the academics and the social life on campus; I have certainly learned a lot about time management!

Originally, I did not even consider Politics as something I would be interested in studying. I had planned to take just a few Politics modules in first year, but after I enjoyed them so much I was convinced I needed it to be one of my Majors. Now my studies in Politics provide me with deeper insights into how societies are structured and the functions of these structures, such as when considering political corruption, political systems, and social activism.

I had chosen Social Policy as a Major at first because I was expecting my career path to take me towards social work. But as I have formed a greater understanding of policy-making and policy analysis, while also taking the Development Studies pathway, I have found myself veering further towards a development-oriented career path, potentially working in the future in humanitarian aid, such as with NGOs or even the UN (if I were aiming very high!). My studies have brought me to deal with topics I have previously known little to nothing about, such as sustainability, activism, and research, highlighting just how valuable the education here has been for my academic and personal development, and my progress to becoming an active global citizen more broadly. While I do plan to continue on to do a Masters in Development Policy or such, the BSocSc as is sets me up really well to work in the civil service, private companies and NGOs in the meantime.

I am delighted to be studying in UCD. I have had plenty of opportunities to really push myself out of my comfort zone and grow my confidence in my own abilities while also making lifelong friends. I’d recommend the BSocSc to anyone interested in making a difference, and I’d recommend UCD to anyone!