Growing up with a mum who works in the field of mental health, it is no surprise that at a young age Ciara developed a passion for helping others.

After finishing high school, to turn her dream of becoming a clinical psychologist into a reality, Ciara chose to enrol in a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle.

“I have always found psychology fascinating,” Ciara says. “The idea of helping someone bring about positive change in their life is something I am passionate about and I believe that mental health is just as important – if not more so – than physical health.”

Ciara is committed to gaining as much real-world experience as possible before graduating. One of the main reasons she chose to study at the University of Newcastle was the number of hands-on learning experiences available to student’s right from first year.

“Work-Integrated Learning has been a focus of my degree, I have been able to talk to, and even work with, some of Australia’s leading researchers. Psychology is a competitive field and I believe that these experiences will give me an edge over other graduates.”

Now in her second year of study, Ciara has enjoyed the experience of being surrounded by students and lecturers who share her passion for the mental health profession.

“The opportunity to engage with other people who are as passionate about psychology as I am has been a real highlight of my degree so far. I have made some really good friends through studying here, there is a sense of community at the university which I have really enjoyed.”

Ciara’s goal of becoming a clinical psychologist remains her primary motivation for her academic efforts and in 2020 she was recognised by her program convenor for achieving outstanding results. Ciara says she is excited to see where the remaining years of her program take her and believes that making the most of your time at university is essential.

“Advice I have for students currently studying or thinking about studying at the University of Newcastle would be to make the most of all of the opportunities offered to them. Psychology students in particular are in a unique position with access to leading researchers and facilities.”

Once she finishes her degree, Ciara plans to begin her career as a clinical psychologist working with children and adolescents. She says she would love to undertake psychological research at some stage during her career.

Study a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle.

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Ciara Price

After finishing high school, to turn her dream of becoming a clinical psychologist into a reality, Ciara chose to enrol in a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle.

The opportunity to engage with other people who are as passionate about psychology as I am has been a real highlight of my degree.