Social Psychology Student Spotlight: Megan Lamb

Megan Lamb is in their fourth year of the Honours Social Psychology Research Specialist Option. Here’s what Megan had to say about choosing a degree in Social Psychology.

What led you to choose the Honours Social Psychology program at McMaster? What is your ideal future path with this degree?

To be completely honest, coming into my first year at McMaster, I had no idea what program (nor career, for that matter) I wanted to pursue. As a Social Sciences 1 student, I took a wide variety of courses from numerous disciplines, such as sociology, social work, political science, psychology, and even biology. But, when I stepped foot into SOCPSY 1Z03, I fell in love with social psychology and never looked back (I actually loved the course so much that I am now TAing it in my fourth year!). The theories, the application to everyday life, and, of course, Dr. Speakman herself made this course so interesting and engaging. To this day, it is still one of the best courses that I have taken at McMaster!

I am currently in the process of applying to Master’s programs in Occupational Therapy. My goal is to use the knowledge, skills, and experiences I obtained as a Social Psychology student at McMaster to pursue a career in occupational therapy, where I can support individuals in overcoming barriers, promoting independence, and enhancing overall well-being, while giving back to the communities that have shaped me into the person I am today.

What is one aspect about the Honours Social Psychology program that you love?

I know it sounds ridiculous… but EVERYTHING. Seriously. If I had to narrow it down, though, I would say the diversity within the program stands out the most. There is so much flexibility and choice, which allows you to tailor your learning experience to the topics that interest you the most. In addition, the range of potential career paths is impressive. I know peers who are pursuing psychotherapy, teacher’s college, law school, occupational therapy, and research-based graduate programs, just to name a few.

As part of the Honours Social Psychology program, students complete a capstone group research project. Can you give a brief description of your capstone research project?

For our capstone research project, my group and I are analyzing the effects of social support during a romantic breakup. Specifically, we want to investigate how social support may benefit individuals differently based on their unique personality traits.

What would you like to say to prospective students thinking of an Honours BA in Social Psychology?

DO IT!!!!! Come join the most incredible community and program on campus. You won’t regret it. In all seriousness, this program – the courses, the people, the community – has truly shaped me into the person I am. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience in my undergrad, and I am forever proud to be a Social Psychology graduate.

What led you to choose the Research Specialist option in particular? What experiences have you had that you feel are unique to this program?

Being in the Research Specialist option has been an incredible experience, and I am so fortunate to have been able to pursue this option. As someone who is very interested in the research process, it has been a privilege to get to work one-on-one with our program’s (amazing) professors and their research (through SOCPSY 3K03), as well as conduct my own research (through a USRA scholarship). This experience has definitely set me apart, and has strengthened my critical thinking skills. More than anything, the Research Specialist option has helped me grow not only as a student, but as a future professional who values evidence-based practice as a means to create a meaningful impact.