Anna Abramowski

I was drawn to the University of Edinburgh because of the programme I had applied for which was an MSc in Counselling Studies at the School of Health and Social Science. I remember applying as well because of the stellar reputation of the University globally, but aside from that I had never stepped foot in Scotland, so I had no preconceived expectations or knowledge of what was going to become one of the best years of my life.  

Something eerie happened as I was walking for my induction day at the School of Health in Social Science. I came across this plaque that marked the relationship between McGill University Faculty of Medicine that has been established by four physicians in 1823 from the University of Edinburgh Medical School. McGill University was where I had been for my Bachelor of Science Degree, and I had initially completed 2 years of Pre-Medicine. This felt to me at the time, an unconscious sign telling me that I was destined to be in Edinburgh due to their historical partnerships.  

During my time at the University of Edinburgh, I had wonderful tutors who not only inspired me with their passion and thirst for knowledge, but who equally acted as true mentors and were exemplar to the wider field of Counselling and Psychotherapy. I was also elected student representative and liaised between students’ needs and the concerns of academic staff.  

In my spare time, I volunteered at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital and at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children. During the summer, I worked at the Edinburgh College of Art as a Trip Student Guide which was an incredible job offer considering I was a French woman. I got to research and organise tours for Students whilst I also had the opportunity to tour some beautiful sites such as the Rosslyn Chapel and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow.  

So, Edinburgh will always be a magical place for me on top of academia. Additionally, I have made life-long friendships. 

Since leaving Edinburgh, I pursued another MPhil degree at the University of Cambridge. I then pursued my Doctorate degree in Counselling Psychology at City St George University in London and worked in different clinical settings (NHS primary care services, tertiary care, occupational settings as well as the private sector). I also became a mother of two wonderful and loving daughters.  

In the last years, I have built a thriving and busy private practice where I specialise in supporting individuals living with long-term health conditions, disordered eating, bariatric support struggling with their emotional wellbeing who are looking for psychological therapy.   

Since the pandemic, I have had the privilege of supporting people living globally as well as across different parts of the United Kingdom. 

The staff in the Counselling and Psychotherapy programme at the University of Edinburgh have greatly contributed to where I stand here today, and I will forever be thankful!