Ansar Balabayev from Kazakhstan made the bold decision to move to Edinburgh for his studies. Drawn by a fascination with the human mind and the way society shapes our lives, Ansar found the perfect fit in QMU’s BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology course.
Since arriving in Scotland, he has embraced every opportunity to grow - from leading peer learning and supporting refugee initiatives to helping shape the future of higher education in Scotland. In this student story, Ansar shares how QMU has helped him turn curiosity into confidence, and ambition into action.
What interested you about psychology and sociology?
For as long as I can remember, I have always been interested in the human mind, namely how we think, how we make choices, how we see ourselves and each other, how we live and work together. Our differences, far from dividing us, become the source of our greatest discoveries. Society is not the backdrop for human life; it is human life. And the world doesn't simply surround us; it moves through us, just as we move through it. It is this exchange between human and world that draws my interest.
Why did you decide to study BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology at QMU?
The BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Sociology at QMU offers a unique opportunity to combine knowledge of human mental processes with an understanding of the broader social system. This holistic vision of the individual and society, grounded in human beings, provides me with a broad background for professional development and career opportunities across a range of areas, including education, research, public policy development, industry, charity, and NGO work.
How did you find it moving from Kazakhstan to Edinburgh?
For people planning to study and live in Edinburgh, the prospect may seem daunting and complicated, but the most important thing is not to panic and to pay attention to detail as it’s actually quite simple. I find Edinburgh to be a very relaxed city with a rich culture and many interesting opportunities. It’s also been a great place for me to combine study and work, so I’ve really enjoyed the experience.
What do you most enjoy about your course at QMU? What has been the highlight so far?
Every lecture taught me something new. I enjoy participating in seminar discussions and gaining alternative perspectives from my peers. What I most enjoy is that the study is fully student-oriented. You always find information that meets your interests and needs; you have a balance of theoretical and practical parts; you have enough time for self-study; and you have the opportunity and freedom to creatively apply the knowledge you receive in the papers and projects you are preparing.
How have your lecturers supported your learning?
The lecturers are always very supportive. I'd like to emphasise that all my questions are always answered. I receive very helpful responses and guidance that greatly improved my essays and other assessments. I’ve always received invaluable guidance and advice on reading materials, new research and findings. Lecturers don’t just treat you as a student, but as a colleague. Such an approach encourages you to achieve the best possible results in your study subject.
What has been the most valuable lesson that you have learned at QMU so far?
The most important lesson I've learned is to never be afraid to try something new. Take advantage of the opportunities that surround you and be bold enough to use them to improve yourself and prepare for your future career. Don't let mistakes define you; instead, turn them into lessons you can learn from.
Have you been a part of any extracurricular programmes during your time as a student at QMU? If so, how has it helped you develop skills and experience?
As I’m an international student, my first year was an adaptation period, so I decided to focus on my studies. But in my second year, I've already started exploring different areas to develop my skills and experience. I volunteer with the youth organisation SolidariTee, the largest student-led charity working to support refugees. I'm also a PALS (Peer Assisted Learning) Leader at QMU, and I participate in QMU’s Toy Box Diversity Lab. I also work to improve the student environment as a Student Changemaker and higher education in Scotland as a member of the STEP (Scotland’s Tertiary Enhancement Programme) team - the national enhancement programme for the Scottish tertiary sector.
I’m gaining a lot through working and participating in all these projects. First, I can network with new people and experts at QMU and beyond. I learned a lot about the education system and study process, research planning and analysis, nature and challenges of volunteers’ work, and I built skills in leadership development, teamwork, communication and many others.
I also enjoyed my experience in QMU’s Employer Mentoring Programme (EMP). This programme helped me understand my career path and the steps I need to take, and I actually ended up being one of the candidates for the Best Mentee Award. Currently, I am participating in the Saltire Scholars Programme - Entrepreneurial Scotland's flagship programme designed to find, grow and connect students with the ambition and potential of becoming future leaders for Scotland.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
My top tip is to be open to change and never give up. I believe these two qualities, more than anything else, will help you succeed.
What are your plans after graduation? Tell us about your ambitions and where you see yourself in the future?
I have ambitious plans to continue my studies and become an expert in psychology and sociology. There are different scenarios for implementing these plans after graduation.
I would like to wish every fresher and every student at the stage of choosing their career path the courage and fortune to move forward with confidence.
