Head of School - Professor Gareth Miles
On behalf of the whole School of Psychology and Neuroscience, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to those of you joining us this year. Whether you are going to be staying with us for one semester or for four years, it is important that you know that you are joining an extended family which takes pride in helping you make the most of your time in St Andrews.
As current Head of School, I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to help ensure that you progress, and eventually leave, knowing that you made absolutely the right choice in studying with us. Whilst this is often a daunting time, as you meet new people and familiarise yourselves with new and perhaps very different experiences and surroundings, we will all face additional challenges this year, due to the ongoing pandemic. However, please rest assured that we are doing everything we can to deliver the best learning opportunities and experiences for all of our students, whether in person or remotely.
The School has a long tradition of high standards in everything that we do. We adopt the pedagogy of Benjamin Franklin (1759), one of the University’s honorary graduates (1759): “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn”. You will be taught, in an interactive and collaborative manner, by the very best academic psychologists and neuroscientists in the country. You will also experience cutting edge research in the areas that you find fascinating and will have the opportunity to learn about the latest and most relevant research techniques.
You will leave as very different, talented and fulfilled people and with an entirely new perspective on life. However, don’t be surprised if, years from now, when you have successful careers in your chosen field, you still find yourself drawn back to St Andrews. The coming years will fly past so please enjoy every moment and every experience that is on offer!
I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible when you join us.
Gareth Miles, PhD
Professor of Neuroscience