Marianna Cortesi, Postdoctoral research assistant, School of Arts and Creative Technologies: Music
Marianna is a postdoctoral research assistant at the School of Arts and Creative Technologies, and has recently completed her PhD focusing on music students’ perceptions of competition in higher education institutions.
She holds a Bachelor degree in Piano performance and a Master of Arts in Music Education: Instrumental and Vocal Teaching. Besides her academic activities, she has been working for eight years as a private piano teacher.
email: marianna.cortesi@york.ac.uk
Our 60-second interview with Marianna:
Could you please tell us what work you do in the field of mental health?
I am currently part of a research team investigating how the creative, social and well-being activities provided by the Humanities Research Centre at the University of York may develop awareness of mental health needs and support among students and staff taking part in these activities. Furthermore, within my PhD I have also investigated how music students’ experiences of competition in higher education may connect with mental health/well-being aspects.
What do you find most rewarding and inspiring in this work?
Having been a university student myself in recent years, I have developed awareness of how mental health issues experienced by students may impact on their ability to thrive at university; therefore, I find it rewarding to get the opportunity to contribute to research and spread awareness on such an important topic in collaboration with other colleagues.
What is the most challenging or complicated aspect of this work?
Being mental health a sensitive topic, we have to exercise caution to make sure to formulate questions (in questionnaires or interviews) in a non-intrusive manner.
What impact do you hope your work is having - or can potentially have?
I hope that my work will positively contribute to developing awareness of mental health in higher education. This is particularly important in consideration of the potential medium to long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on mental health.
Could you share with us one piece of advice that you follow for your own mental health?
I do not work at the weekends and spend quality time with my loved ones.