Studying psychology at Deakin to work for better mental health and wellbeing globally

Apoorva Malik, a Vice Chancellor’s Meritorious 100% Scholar who is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Deakin University wants to work towards spreading awareness and helping people prioritise mental health and wellbeing.

‘I have always wanted a career that was not just financially rewarding but also mentally satisfying; psychology gives me scope to achieve both. Australia is one of the best destinations to study and pursue a career in psychology since people here take mental health very seriously.’

Even as a student in Ludhiana, India, Apoorva had her mind firmly made up to put in the hard work and focused effort to fulfil her dreams. With a portfolio of great academic scores and a repertoire of extracurricular activities and leadership roles, Apoorva secured the Deakin University Vice Chancellor’s Meritorious 100% Scholarship in 2021.

Achieving this helped Apoorva take bolder, more confident steps towards her future and make the decision to move to Australia as an international student and study at Deakin.

‘I believe it has become very critical to amplify mental healthcare facilities the world over and the need for it is increasing with the fast pace of modernisation that is taking over our lives.’

Apoorva has always been fascinated by ways that people think, process their world and make decisions. Her love for psychology extends beyond academics, leaning towards understanding people better and making their life better. She felt the need to sensitise people to the importance of mental health care; especially post-COVID Apoorva found her calling in this domain and made the decision to choose Deakin.

‘Being an international student at Deakin and now well into my graduation here, I can vouch for the all-round learning and development that one can expect to achieve here.’

At Deakin, Apoorva can explore psychology and access a global perspective in studies, plus experience internships and volunteer working with community engagement.

With a comprehensive, well-structured course, she is getting the chance to undertake interesting assignments, case studies and research projects that have helped her learn better. She appreciates the priority attached to more practical aspects of studies and the importance given to developing talents and skills.

‘What is the strikingly different aspect of studying in Australia in the practice of ‘working while learning’, one that isn’t observed in India. Here it isn’t just something normal but something that is required and respected.’

As an international student in Australia, Apoorva feels the support from the Indian students here at Deakin as well the multi-cultural, multi-lingual international student community makes a difference.

She adds that Melbourne is an ideal study destination for international students, and one never feels like an outsider here. Having open and welcoming people around her and great support from teachers and mentors at Deakin eased her transition from a sheltered existence at home to living independently as an international student for the first time.

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