Tiegan Blackhurst, Psychology, Lancaster University (2023 Cohort)

Last year I was fortunate enough to secure funding from the NWSSDTP which enabled me to visit McGill University in Montreal from October-December 2024. As a visiting scholar, I worked in Professor Victoria Talwar’s Child Development Lab and had the most fantastic time getting to know her and her research team.

During my visit, I presented at an international neurodiversity conference which allowed me to disseminate my findings for the first time to a North American audience. I worked closely alongside other PhD students researching deception and gained a refreshing insight into a different academic culture. Professor Talwar granted me the opportunity to present my work at one of her lab group meetings and I also got the chance to shadow data collection sessions from fellow PhD students. Throughout my time at the Talwar Research Lab I formed strong research connections and I look forward to working with my previous colleagues – now friends – again in the future.

Whilst my time at McGill was undoubtedly a fantastic career opportunity which has had a significant positive impact on my PhD, I fell in love with Montreal itself the moment I arrived. The city is rich with culture, diversity, and history. With Downtown Montreal framed by the beautiful Mount Royal (a sight to behold in the fall) and Old Montreal hosting traditional markets, stunning architecture, and friendly communities, there was not a part of the city to be missed. With my new friends from the Talwar lab we wandered the cobbled streets to cafes for writing retreats, spent afternoons learning about the history of Montreal at museums, and evenings eating some of the best food (Poutine fan for life!) I was even in the city for the first snowfall of the season and I made the locals laugh due to my excitement at seeing that much snow for the first time.

Whilst I was nervous to live in another country for months alone, it was one of the best things I have ever done and I encourage anyone who is thinking about applying for this funding to GO FOR IT! I learnt so much from the other researchers, valued the opportunities I had to disseminate my findings, and loved exploring McGill and the city. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and apply, I can guarantee it may just be one of the most incredible experiences of your life.

Thank you NWSSDTP for funding my visit