1. What impact has GradStar had on your life in 2024?

Being a GradStar Top 100 student and nearing completion of my Bachelor of Social Sciences degree is a remarkable achievement with a profound impact on my personal and professional life. This recognition boosted my self-confidence and motivation, allowing me to develop valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication. As a GradStar Top 100 student, I've had access to networking events, workshops, and seminars, enabling me to connect with peers, professionals, and potential employers. The GradStar recognition has also opened doors to exclusive job opportunities, internships, or graduate programmes, giving me a competitive edge in the job market. In the field of social sciences where competition for jobs can be high, being a GradStar Top 100 student has been a valuable differentiator. I'm excited about the potential research opportunities, collaborations, or graduate studies in social sciences that may arise from this achievement, allowing me to further develop my expertise and make a meaningful impact in my field. Furthermore, the GradStar network has provided me with connections in my industry, potentially leading to mentorship, job opportunities, or collaborations. With my strong academic background and GradStar recognition, I feel well positioned to take on leadership roles in organisations focused on social impact. Overall, being a GradStar Top 100 student has had a lasting impact on my personal and professional growth, opening doors to new opportunities and helping me achieve my goals.

2. How do you stay motivated and on track with your studies?

As a student, I employ several strategies to stay motivated and on track with my studies. Firstly, I set clear goals for myself, breaking down my long-term vision into smaller, manageable tasks. This helps me maintain focus and momentum, and I remind myself of my ultimate goals – such as graduating with honours or pursuing a specific career path – to keep me driven. I also believe in creating a conducive study environment that helps me stay focused. I have a dedicated study space that is quiet, organised, and comfortable, enabling me to concentrate on my studies. I also make sure to minimise distractions, avoiding studying in areas with high foot traffic or in front of the TV. To stay organised, I use planners, calendars, and task lists to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study schedules. I prioritise tasks and break them down into manageable chunks to maintain productivity. Additionally, I seek support and accountability from study groups, mentors, tutors, and an accountability partner, which helps me stay motivated and on track. Lastly, I believe in rewarding my progress and practising self-care. I celebrate my milestones and achievements, no matter how small they may seem, to acknowledge my hard work and stay motivated. I also take regular breaks to recharge and maintain focus and prioritise exercise and wellness to stay energised and motivated. By incorporating these strategies into my daily routine, I'm able to stay motivated, focused, and on track with my studies.

3. What drives you to excel in your studies?

Reflecting on this, I am reminded of my deep passion for mental health and my unwavering commitment to becoming a clinical psychologist. My desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health issues fuels my academic pursuits. I am driven by the knowledge that mental health affects us all, and that there is still so much to be learned and discovered in this field. My passion for mental health is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about using that knowledge to create positive change and improve the lives of others. As I work towards becoming a clinical psychologist, I am motivated by the prospect of working directly with individuals, families, and communities to promote mental health and well-being. I am driven by the desire to provide compassionate and evidence-based care, and to contribute to the development of more effective treatments and interventions. My academic pursuits are driven by a sense of personal fulfilment and growth. I find joy and satisfaction in learning and exploring new ideas, and I am constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities to develop my skills and knowledge.

4. Will you recommend GradStar to other students? 

I would highly recommend GradStar to other students. My experience has been incredibly rewarding and has provided me with a unique opportunity to showcase my skills and achievements. I gained valuable exposure and recognition, which not only boosted my confidence but also opened doors to new opportunities. It also provided me with a platform to connect with other high-achieving students and professionals in my field, which was invaluable for networking and learning from others. One of the things I appreciate most about GradStar is its commitment to supporting and empowering students. The programme is designed to help students achieve their goals and reach their full potential, and the support and resources are top notch. Overall, I would highly recommend GradStar to any student looking to take their academic and professional career to the next level.

5. What are your plans for 2025?

My plans for 2025 are centred around continued growth, learning, and leadership. I am committed to lifelong learning, always seeking new knowledge, skills, and experiences that will enable me to make a positive impact in the world. In 2025, I plan to continue astonishing others with my leadership skills, inspiring and motivating those around me to strive for excellence. I will persist in my pursuit of becoming a clinical psychologist, working tirelessly to develop my skills and expertise in this field. Through my studies and professional development, I aim to deepen my understanding of human behaviour, mental health, and wellness. I am excited to continue learning from experienced professionals in the field and to stay up to date with the latest research and best practices. I am eager to continue this journey, using my knowledge, skills, and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of others.