Hailing from Germany, Dr. Margret Aenne Moser academic journey took her to Queen's University Belfast, where she pursued a Master's degree in Political Psychology, laying the foundation for an impressive career blending psychology and international experiences.

We discuss Dr. Moser's cherished memories from her time in Belfast, and how her psychology background has influenced her current role as a "Talent Management Specialist" at Continental Tires.

Can you share a little bit about why you chose to study your master's in psychology at Queen's University Belfast and your academic journey in general?

After graduating from my local High School in Germany, I decided to go for a bachelor’s degree in “Intercultural Relations and Behavior”, simply because I thought it was interesting. I had studied abroad in South Africa and the USA during school and hold a second passport from Canada, so understanding different perspectives and cultures, from a psychological perspective, was really fascinating to me. My BA was then mainly social psychology but with political science, media studies, and sociology mixed in. The MSc Political Psychology was a perfect continuation of what I had studied so far and prepared me for the PhD program I eventually joined after my time at Queen’s.

Reflecting on your time at Queen’s what would you say is your happiest memory?  

I really enjoyed being a part of the Queen’s University Men’s Boat club as a coxswain! We had some great trips and regattas and parties, and I am so glad I decided to join and get up at 5:30 am on most days! Being a part of that team tremendously enriched my experience, helped me make amazing friends and really enjoy Belfast to the fullest.

I also am so grateful to have been able to do my MSc Thesis about the “Sharing Education Programme” that was coordinated by Oxford University. My interviews with the school coordinators took me all over Northern Ireland and gave me a much broader insight into the people and the culture of the area.

And lastly, living in the graduate accommodation of Queen’s University was amazing. The stories I can tell about my roommate, my fellow international MSc PolPsy students, and the fun we had, can fill entire evenings. It was truly a blessing to be able to move in and out so seamlessly especially when coming from another country and not knowing the city. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

And you mentioned that you started a PhD after leaving Belfast, where has that led you to now?

So, I started working as a Student Assistant for the business development department within the President’s Office at Jacobs University Bremen, during my PhD studies there. Eventually one of my proposals for a customer went through and I was hired full time right after the PhD to see that project through. After that one-year project I wanted to move into “real” business and away from academia and took on a job as Training Coordinator at a Schlumberger plant in Celle, Germany. I always loved studying and teaching, so I immediately fell in love with the area of learning and development. In 2018 I then landed a job with Continental Tires, one of the largest automobile suppliers globally and headquartered in my hometown of Hannover. I have been there for over five years now and am currently a “Talent Management Specialist” and heading the leadership lab for my location. That means I oversee the talent development processes, advise and coach individuals, teams, and leaders, and can develop and implement measures for personal and professional growth. It’s a lot of fun and immensely rewarding to really help people on their journey.

Are there many other psychology graduates in your line of work – how do you think studying psychology has prepared you for your current role?

Yes, many of my colleagues in HR are psychologists, however of course no one did Political Psychology, as that was only taught at Queen’s University, and no where else in the world! Being a psychologist is extremely helpful when dealing with people and sometimes opposing agendas, different groups, and within a system like a large corporation. I wouldn’t say you need this degree to do it well, but it certainly helps me in the day to day, is a great conversation starter in any situation, and I would go down the same route again if I could.

What advice would you give other international students considering studying Psychology at Queen’s?  

While learning in English wasn’t new to me, the Northern Irish accent took some getting used to - I absolutely loved it though! I recommend really diving into the city, the community, the culture. We took many trips around the island and met some incredible people. Join a club or society, make friends, and make some amazing memories. The time at Queen’s went by so quickly, and I have only the most positive memories. Also, don’t bother with an umbrella, embrace the raincoat and wind-swept hair, it’s no use trying to fight it. Thanks to the amazing lecturers and professors at Queen’s, they always made us feel welcome!

Profile submitted September, 2023