Understanding people, changing lives

For Elly Cadet, choosing psychology was about following a lifelong curiosity. Today, she's studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle, where she's turning that curiosity into practical research experience while preparing for a career supporting people's mental health.

The interest began close to home.

"Growing up in a Greek Australian family gave me an appreciation for how culture, identity and community shape the way people think, communicate and experience the world. From a young age, I was exposed to different perspectives, traditions and values through my family and community, which sparked my curiosity about why people behave differently and how our experiences influence who we become."

That fascination with human behaviour has only grown throughout her degree.

"Psychology combines this interest in human behaviour with scientific research, allowing me to better understand people while working towards improving mental health and wellbeing."

Rather than only learning about research in lectures, Elly has had the opportunity to experience it firsthand through a placement at the University's Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory. There, she's contributing to the ABC2 (Arteries-Brain-Cognition) study, which investigates brain health and cognitive ageing.

"Through my work on the ABC2 (Arteries-Brain-Cognition) study, I have gained hands-on experience in participant testing, research procedures and data collection. Being part of a real research environment has helped me connect what I learn in the classroom to practical applications while developing valuable professional and research skills."

Outside the laboratory, Elly has looked for every opportunity to challenge herself and get involved in university life. As a Student Ambassador, she's helped future students explore their own study options. Through CareerHub and the University's iLead program, she's continued building professional skills alongside her studies.

She's also the Treasurer of the newly established Newcastle University Psychology Society, helping to build a supportive community where psychology students can connect and get involved beyond the classroom.

Another defining part of Elly's university experience has been receiving the Ma & Morley Scholarship. The leadership scholarship took Elly to China as part of the 2026 Ma & Morley China Immersion, where she explored innovation, culture and international collaboration while building lifelong friendships with fellow scholars.

"The experience strengthened my appreciation for cultural exchange and cross-cultural understanding... It broadened my global perspective, strengthened my confidence and allowed me to build lifelong friendships with an incredible cohort of scholars."

One experience during the immersion challenged Elly in an unexpected way.

"Speaking at a cultural exchange in Liangzhu was a particularly meaningful experience, as it gave me the confidence to share my story and connect with people from very different backgrounds."

The connections Elly made through the scholarship became an important part of her university experience.

"More than anything, the friendships and support I found within the scholar community helped me realise that I truly belonged."

That sense of support continued throughout her degree. When personal circumstances made balancing university more challenging, Elly knew there were systems in place to help her stay on track.

"The University's Reasonable Adjustment Plan (RAP) has provided valuable support by ensuring I have appropriate adjustments in place when needed. This support has helped me manage challenges effectively while continuing to succeed academically."

Looking ahead, Elly hopes to become a Clinical Psychologist specialising in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), supporting people who have experienced trauma, particularly those working in emergency services. Her career goal has been shaped by watching her father work as a first responder and seeing the importance of accessible mental health support.

"My father has been one of my biggest inspirations. Through his work as a first responder, I developed an understanding of the importance of mental health and the challenges many people face in high-pressure professions."

As she works towards a career in clinical psychology, Elly knows the lessons she'll take with her extend far beyond the classroom.

The degree has given her practical research experience and the confidence to pursue her ambitions, while student life has introduced her to new friendships, global experiences and opportunities she never expected.

For anyone considering studying psychology, she has one piece of advice.

"Say yes to opportunities. While your classes are important, many of the most rewarding experiences come from getting involved in placements, jobs on campus, scholarships, clubs and societies, and volunteering."

Being part of a real research environment has helped me connect what I learn in the classroom to practical applications while developing valuable professional and research skills.