Understanding how the brain gives rise to thought, memory, and behaviour is something that has fascinated me for many years. Today, I am pursuing a Research Master’s in Cognitive Neuropsychology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands, where I study how mental processes relate to the structure and function of the human brain.
My interest in the brain began long before my university studies. As a child, I experienced a form of epilepsy and spent considerable time under neurological care, often surrounded by the procedures used to monitor brain activity.
Although the condition is now completely behind me, those early experiences sparked a lasting curiosity about how the brain works and how neurological conditions affect people’s lives. In many ways, they planted the first seeds of my motivation to pursue research into the brain.
My academic journey formally began at New York College in Athens, where I completed my BSc (Hons) in Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling awarded by the University of Bolton (now known as the University of Greater Manchester). During my undergraduate studies. I was exposed to a wide range of psychological perspectives, from therapeutic approaches to broader theories of human behaviour. Over time, however, I found myself increasingly drawn to the biological foundations of psychology, particularly the mechanisms through which brain systems give rise to cognition, perception and behaviour.
A particularly meaningful influence during my studies was my lecturer and supervisor, Chryssanthi Andronoglou. Her mentorship encouraged me to explore psychology from scientific perspective and helped me realize that I wanted to pursue a path in research.
My current master’s programme combines cognitive psychology and clinical neuropsychology to investigate how mental processes are linked to the brain. Through courses in medical neuroscience and neuroanatomy, neuropsychiatry, brain imaging, and advanced data analysis, we examine the brain from multiple perspectives. From cognitive theory to neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Reflecting on my time at the University of Greater Manchester programme, I am grateful for the academic foundation it provided. It was there that my early curiosity about the brain developed into a clear academic direction, ultimately guiding me toward neuroscience research and the continuing effort to better understand the relationship between brain, mind, and behaviour.”
Eugeniu Gorea, BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling graduate, Class of 2024 | University of Greater Manchester at New York College, Athens | MSc Cognitive Neuropsychology (Research Master) student, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
The Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling programme at New York College was a transformative experience for me. From the start I was impressed with the depth it offered. It was not just about learning theories – it was about applying them, understanding the human experience on a deeper level, and developing the tools I would need to become a skilled practitioner. What stood out most to me was the balance of academic excellence and genuine care from the professors. They did not just teach; they encouraged us to think critically, engage with the material on a deeper level, and cultivate empathy for those we aim to help. Earning a degree awarded by the University of Greater Manchester gave me a strong sense of achievement, but what I value most is how much I grew as a person throughout the programme. I will always be grateful for the education, the experiences, and the community I found here.
Agalia Theofania, Graduate, BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy & Counselling, Class of 2025 | University of Greater Manchester at New York College Athens
