Pursuing a passion for Psychology

Balancing the tasks of study and family is a challenge for every student but that didn’t stop recent Psychology graduate, Katrina Quick, from enrolling as a mature aged student and excelling in her studies.

The mother of three found that her interest in Psychology was sparked during her time working as a hairstylist and owning her own salons.

“My passion for people developed into a desire to further understand human behaviour and function. The fascinating study of Psychology at university was a natural progression in this thirst for knowledge” said Katrina.

Katrina completed her HSC twenty years prior to entering a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Newcastle. Since completing her degree, she has been offered a place in the Master of Clinical Psychology program and hopes to pursue a career in clinical psychology after her studies.

During her time as an undergraduate student, Katrina immersed herself in extra-curricular activities wherever possible. She was the psychology student representative on the Curriculum Teaching and Learning Committee, a volunteer with Hunter New England Health, a research assistant in the Newcastle Social Psychology Laboratory and later was exposed to mentor and training through the Social Psychology Lab meetings.

She said all this gave her a deeper understanding of the subject and encourages all students to do the same.

“Studying Psychology is a privilege and should be respected as so. I suggest, as was suggested to myself when beginning my studies, to connect with others in your degree. Different people bring different ideas and approaches to course content which made topics even more interesting,” said Katrina.

She doesn’t deny that juggling her study and family commitments is difficult, but manages them both as best she can and enjoys the challenges and special moments along the way.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff,” advises Katrina. “During my undergraduate studies in Psychology I have been extended, challenged and above all, thoroughly enjoyed my learning experience.”