I understand.
I too was "interested by human behaviour" and "intrigued by how the mind works". But the reality is that "interest" doesn't translate to a career, especially a career in psychology.
BSc Psychology ✔
MSc Psychology ✔
Clinical work experience ✔
But little did I know of the road to hell that trying to get a career in psychology would be!
I am writing this as a 24 year old who has admittedly given up on a psychology career. Luckily I'm currently on the tail end of a graduate programme which utilises my research skills and has opened my eyes to other genuine career paths and avenues such as public health (which could see you becoming a public health consultant as this specific medicine speciality is open to anyone).
https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/career-planning/study-and-training/graduate-training-opportunities/specialty-training-public-healthPsychology is
dramatically oversubscribed with practically everyone having at least an accredited 2:1, and many with a masters degree and work experience. Therefore, if you want to practice in any of the main areas including clinical, educational or forensic you will face one of the most soul destroying career pathways. It's rare for you to step out of your undergraduate degree and walk onto a doctorate in clinical or educational psychology without having the relevant "one year" work experience.
"But I'll gain experience in my spare time and during the holidays" I hear you protest! That won't protect you from the myriad of rejections because you will be competing with those who have years more experience than you, people with PHDs, managerial experience etc.
If you would like real life genuine examples and advice go to the brilliant clinpsy forum which showcases some of the horror stories. Do you really want to be 30 years old still working as a mental health support worker on peanuts trying to get an assistant psychologist/ trainee psychologist wellbeing practitioner post with 200 other people (which by the way only pays £21k - £23k)?
I am only writing this because I wish someone would have made me at least think twice. If you have good science A levels please apply to medicine! If medicine isn't your cup of tea then at least look at other degrees and the
real job prospects before you make the mistake so many including myself have!
Whatever you choose I wish the best for all of you but remember student finance will only fund
one of your undergraduate degrees so please consider this when you are applying. If you have already made your application it is not too late to go through clearing on results day. You have months to do you research before results day so you have no excuse!
If you have any questions I am more than happy to answer - I would much rather spend a few hours of my day ensuring that you choose the right career path rather than regretting your life choices before you have even started to live life properly!
Good luck!