Event: Becoming a Psychologist: First Step into the World of Minds

Date: 10th July 2025

Duration: 1 hour

Venue: B2, S Block, SRM Ramapuram campus

Resource person: Mrs. Ashwini Rao, M.Phil., Psychologist

Event convener: Dr. M. Kamaraj

Event coordinator: Mrs. S. Vinitha

Participants: 49

Summary of the event

The orientation expert talk, led by Mrs. Ashwini Rao, an M.Phil.-qualified psychologist, aimed to inspire and inform first-year psychology students about the realities and opportunities within the field. With over seven years of experience in counselling, the speaker used an engaging, relatable, and myth-busting approach to:

• Dispel common misconceptions about psychology.
• Introduce foundational psychological domains like human development, mental health, cognition, and behavioural science.
• Highlight diverse career paths including clinical, counselling, organizational, and research roles.
• Provide personal strategies for becoming a competent psychologist, including reflection, volunteering, and emotional self-care.
• Emphasize the importance of standing out in a competitive field through skills like deep listening, observation, and early professional exposure.

Outcomes of the programme

The expert talk session successfully achieved the following outcomes for both first and second-year B.Sc. Psychology students:

Enhanced conceptual understanding

• Students developed a clear and realistic understanding of the scope of psychology, its scientific basis, and its diverse applications in personal, clinical, and organizational settings.
• Myths surrounding psychology (for example, that psychologists can read minds or that therapy is only for the mentally ill) were effectively debunked, helping students distinguish fact from fiction.

Career orientation and clarity

• Students gained insights into various psychology career paths, including clinical, counselling, industrial-organizational, academic, and research domains.
• They learned about the academic journey and practical competencies required for each career path, which helped in setting informed academic and professional goals.

Development of self-awareness and skills

• Emphasis on journaling, reflective thinking, observation, and deep listening inspired students to engage in habits that build emotional intelligence and psychological insight.
• Students recognized the importance of building emotional stamina and maintaining professional boundaries for future practice in mental health fields.

Motivation to engage practically

• The talk encouraged students to pursue early internships, volunteer opportunities, and experiential learning in NGOs, schools, and healthcare settings.
• Second-year students, in particular, resonated with the guidance on applying theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

Improved peer interaction and identity formation

• The interactive activities and relatable delivery style fostered a sense of belonging and excitement among students.
• Students began reflecting on their role and identity as future psychologists, recognizing the need for ethical practice, ongoing learning, and personal growth.

Bridging first-year transition gaps

• First-year students received a motivational and structured roadmap to begin their psychology journey with clarity and confidence.
• The session helped ease academic transition anxiety and fostered enthusiasm for the subject.