For Erica Gikovski, a fascination with people and how communication can benefit them inspired her to pursue psychology.

“My interest in psychology began when I saw how much difference genuine understanding and communication can make,” Erica said.

“That awareness grew into a strong desire to support others in building healthier, more meaningful lives.”

Choose something you’re passionate about

As part of her a lifelong interest in the field, Erica completed her Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at La Trobe University in late 2021. Following graduation, Erica worked in disability and mental health support roles with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“Those experiences gave me a deep appreciation for the challenges individuals face in their daily lives, and importance of accessible, compassionate care.”

With the end goal of becoming a psychologist, Erica decided to pursue postgraduate study and began a Master of Professional Psychology at La Trobe.

“I wanted to build on that experience and develop the skills to provide more specialised psychological support.”

With coursework that encouraged critical thinking and self-reflection, Erica was inspired to shape her professional identity.

“I particularly enjoyed the subjects that focused on psychological assessment and evidence-based interventions, as they helped me translate theory into practice,” she said.

Surround yourself with like-minded people

It was during her postgraduate study that Erica’s interest in her field was strengthened, particularly thanks to the strongly shared enthusiasm of students and teachers alike.

“I was surrounded by supportive lecturers and classmates who shared the same passion for helping others,” Erica explained.

Describing her La Trobe lecturers and supervisors as ‘exceptional in their knowledge and commitment’, Erica benefitted from a supportive environment where she was challenged and encouraged to grow.

“The friendships and connections I made within my cohort were a huge source of support. We shared the highs and lows of study and placement, and encouraged each other through every stage,” shared Erica.

“The placement and academic support teams at La Trobe were always there to offer guidance and reassurance when things became challenging.”

Build practical experience with work-integrated learning (WIL)

For Erica, one of the highlights of her Master’s degree was during a placement in her fifth year of study, where she worked in Shepparton, Seymour and Yarrawonga.

“Working in regional communities gave me invaluable experience with diverse clients and a broader understanding of how psychological services can be delivered in different settings,” Erica said.

“It also strengthened my confidence and adaptability as a developing practitioner.”

Preparing students for the workforce with real-world experience is one of La Trobe’s most significant attributes. Where some universities highlight the importance of theory throughout their degrees, La Trobe focuses on giving students the hands-on, practical experience they need to enter the workforce with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

“The transition from student to provisional psychologist was both exciting and challenging, but the training I received at La Trobe prepared me well for professional practice.”

Find an equilibrium between life and study

When it comes to balancing work, study and her personal life, Erica highlights the importance of planning and self-care.

“I found that keeping a routine, setting realistic goals and making time for family and friends helped me stay grounded,” she shared.

Describing self-care as a ‘non-negotiable’ part of her daily routine, Erica prioritised things that helped her recharge throughout the week. These included going for walks, listening to podcasts and catching up with friends.

“It was also important to accept that balance didn’t look the same every week. Some weeks were heavier on study or placement, while others allowed for more personal time,” she said.

“Learning to be flexible and kind to myself was key.”

Find an empowering environment

After Erica completed her Master of Professional Psychology, she undertook an internship year at a private practice in Melbourne. There, Erica enjoyed the work and the relationships she built so much so that she has continued to work at the same practice.

“I find it incredibly fulfilling to build long-term therapeutic relationships and to see the positive changes that come from collaboration and trust.”

“The foundation I developed during my studies continues to guide my approach to therapy. I often draw on the reflective and ethical principles I learned at La Trobe, and I am committed to ongoing professional development as I work toward full registration as a psychologist.”

Having chosen psychology based on her strong interest in people, Erica discovered a way to challenge herself and build a career she is proud and passionate about.

“The Master of Professional Psychology was a challenging and rewarding program that offered a balance of theory, reflection and practical learning.”

Get advice from people that have been there and done that

When it comes to others who are considering postgraduate study, Erica shared some advice.

“It is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself, both personally and professionally. The journey can be demanding, but it offers incredible opportunities for growth and learning.”

Erica explained that though her experience, she believes that students need to pace themselves and practice self-compassion.

“You do not need to have everything figured out from the start. Allow yourself to learn, make mistakes and ask for support when you need it,” she shared.

“Postgraduate study requires commitment, but it also requires kindness toward yourself. When things feel difficult, I remind myself of why I chose this path and the difference that connection and understanding can make in people’s lives.”

Find out what you’re capable of  

Explore your pathway into a meaningful career in psychology and mental health. To hear directly from our experts and get your questions answered, join one of our free live webinars on:

• Master of Clinical Psychology
• Master of Professional Psychology, or
• Master of Counselling, Rehabilitation and Mental Health

Prefer to learn in your own time? Watch our on‑demand webinars and discover how postgraduate study at La Trobe can help you take the next step in your career and make a real impact.

We’re ranked in the world’s top 175 for psychology.
Times Higher Education (THE), 2026, Psychology University Rankings 2026

The post How Erica’s passion for people helped her choose a career appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

From painting sessions to discounted trips – how La Trobe turned small spending into big experiences. 

When I first started university, I thought I’d be constantly budgeting. 

To be fair, I still do – but these trips and activities are the few things I don’t think twice about, because I know they’d cost a lot more outside. 

As an international student, especially, transport and travel felt like things I’d have to limit. Exploring new places sounded great, but also expensive. 

What I didn’t expect was how quickly that idea would change. 

Somewhere between a random painting session on campus and signing up for spontaneous trips, I realised something: money works a little differently at uni. 

It started small – a painting session. No expectations, no pressure, just something to do on campus. 

But it turned out to be one of those unexpectedly good evenings where time passes quickly, and you leave feeling like you did more than you planned. 

A lot of the best things here start that way: low effort, low cost, but surprisingly memorable. 

Lightscape was probably the moment it fully clicked. 

Walking through glowing gardens, surrounded by lights and music, it felt like one of those experiences you assume would cost a lot. 

It usually does. 

Just not here – thanks to La Trobe Student Union (LTSU) membership perks. 

At La Trobe, you’re not just cutting costs – you’re getting more out of them. 

And then things just kept working out that way. 

Trips through La Trobe Student Association (LTSA) had a way of turning simple plans into full experiences. A visit to Sovereign Hill ended up feeling like stepping into an 1800s town: trying old-style bowling, going underground into gold mines, and somehow getting my name engraved on a bookmark like I’d picked up a random side quest. 
 
Living on res adds another layer to this. 

There’s always something happening – discounted outings, free food, spontaneous events. It removes the effort of planning and replaces it with simply showing up. 

You just notice something, show up, and suddenly your day turns into something more than you expected. 

Trips to places like Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Zoo followed the same pattern. 

A rhino running around like it had somewhere important to be. Birds performing like it’s their full-time job. A Tasmanian devil just doing its own thing. 

It wasn’t just about seeing animals, it felt like a full day out, without the usual hesitation that comes with spending. 

Even missing out works out sometimes. 

The city tours are known to sell out quickly – I missed my first chance. 

But later, through La Trobe Leaders, I ended up being part of it anyway – helping guide students around the city and finishing the day at the Skydeck, watching the sunset. 

A $40 experience… for about $5, or sometimes even free. 

Looking back, I think that’s what makes this my favourite uni perk. 

It’s not just about discounts. It’s about access. 

At La Trobe, a dollar doesn’t just get you something small, it gets you somewhere, gives you something to do, or turns into a moment you didn’t expect. 

And once you start noticing it, you realise: there’s always something going on. 

The post Exploring more for less: My favourite uni perk   appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Hi, I’m Peyton and growing up I always heard the words drive and vision in a negative tone. 

“She’s too big for her own boots.” 
“She’s too ambitious.” 
“She’s going to get a hard reality check soon.” 

As a kid, I smiled and nodded, pretending to accept those closed-minded thoughts. But over time, I began to see my “flaw” as a superpower. 

My drive and vision have gotten me into every room I’ve ever been in — and it absolutely didn’t happen by accident. 

When I was younger, I thought it was a bad thing that I knew exactly what train I was getting on, when I was getting off, and where it was going. I was often told, “You know it’s okay if things go off the rails or the route changes, right?” 

And my answer was always the same: yeah… but that’s not going to happen. Not to me. 

That drive and clarity became second nature. 

I used to think every room I entered was like collecting brownie points toward a final goal. And every time I got closer, someone from a previous “stop” would call out, “It’s okay to fail. Be realistic.” 

But the truth is — no one else can see where your train is going. 

People jump on halfway through your journey and think they understand it but they haven’t seen what it took to keep it moving. 

My ambition has brought me opportunities, friendships and experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything. But more importantly, it’s given me the resilience to keep pushing forward — even when the track gets steep. 

I’d like to say my drive gets me into rooms because of my ridiculously strong handshake and sense of humour… but that might be a little too ambitious, even for me. 

Although don’t get it twisted — the handshake is elite. 

But in reality, the best way to drive your train into any room is to be yourself and believe you belong there. Because you do. 

So, take the steering wheel — it’s your train. 

Drive it where you want, when you want and at your own pace. Change routes, explore different stations and take in the journey. 

Just don’t forget where you’re going — and don’t forget the rooms it took to get there. 

After all, the best journeys are driven by someone who knows their destination. 

The post How drive gets you into any room you want to be in  appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Turns out starting university at 27 comes with a few unexpected discoveries. 

The first time I realised I might be a ‘mature-aged student’, someone in my class asked me a very genuine question: “Did you fail before? Is that why you’re studying now?”

I laughed and explained that sometimes people simply take different paths. 

But it did make me start observing campus life more closely. Somewhere between hearing the word ‘bro’ in every second sentence and watching students perfectly execute the mysterious ‘six seven’ hand gesture, I realised this experience deserved its own little field study. 

So, here are the findings. 

Field notes from starting university at 27 — from mysterious TikTok trends to unexpected mentor moments. 

Field note #1: Campus culture moves fast 

University culture moves fast. 

Conversations around me often include K-pop ‘stans’, techno songs with no lyrics and trends that seem to appear overnight. 

Someone says, ‘six seven’ and suddenly half the group is doing a coordinated hand gesture while I’m just standing there wondering if I missed an orientation explaining it. 

Between TikTok dances on Simpson Lawn and ducks casually walking through campus like they own the place, La Trobe definitely has its own ecosystem. 

To be fair though, the energy younger students bring to campus is something I genuinely admire. 

Field note #2: The Mature-aged student advantage 

Being a mature student also has its benefits. 

I found it easier to approach staff, ask questions and build professional relationships. Having lived independently before university also helped me balance responsibilities like cooking, laundry and study. 

And perhaps the biggest mature student advantage of all: actually reading the LMS announcements. 

Field note #3: The unexpected mentor moment 

One thing I didn’t expect was occasionally becoming the person people asked for advice. 

In one of my Sports Management classes, a student once asked me what internships they should pursue to break into the sports industry. 

Something similar happened during a shoot in my role as a Senior Student Storyteller, when a student asked, “How do I get the job you have?”

Moments like that reminded me that experience outside university can sometimes help others navigating it. 

Final findings 

If this little ‘study’ taught me anything, it’s that there’s no single timeline for university. Everyone simply arrives here through different paths. Being older gave me the confidence to try new things and appreciate the opportunities university offers. It also reminded me that you don’t need a huge circle of friends — sometimes two or three genuine friendships are more than enough. 

And honestly, campus would probably be far less interesting if everyone was the same age. 

If you ever see someone slightly confused about a TikTok trend but very confident about where the washing machines are in Res… there’s a good chance you’ve just met a mature-aged student. 

The post An unscientific, critical analysis of being a mature-aged student at uni appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Breaking into cybersecurity can feel daunting. Mary and the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Student Chapter created LinkUp in Cyber, a speed networking event connecting students with industry professionals – both on campus and online.

Students needed real-world insights and connections to navigate career pathways in cybersecurity. The team aimed to create an inclusive, impactful event that bridged the gap between classroom and industry.

The project

The event featured:

• A keynote from the National Office of Cyber Security.
• A career panel with experts from Microsoft, Silverfort, and La Trobe.
• Speed networking sessions where students rotated through tables or breakout rooms for focused conversations.

Impact

68 students engaged with 33 industry professionals

Students said:

“It was inspiring to hear how others got started in cybersecurity – it made me feel like I’m on the right path.”

“Even experienced professionals face imposter syndrome – so reassuring.”

“There’s no single path to success. Start small.”

LinkedIn buzz amplified visibility, and students received invitations to future WiCyS events.

Lessons learned

1. Smaller online groups created deeper conversations.
2. Plan sound systems and catering carefully for in-person events.
3. Promote widely through official channels for maximum reach.

Advice for future applicants

Why apply for a Student Experience Grant?

Because your idea may do more than solve a problem — it could transform how students experience university. Applications for 2026 grants are open and close on 31 March 2026.

The post LinkUp in Cyber – Fast chats, real Connections appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Both about to begin their undergraduate degrees in Psychological Science, they’ve already found connection, support and a sense of belonging on campus.

For Charlotte, the move from Melbourne to Thurgoona marked a fresh start — and a chance to do something “a bit more fulfilling.”

“I’m originally from Melbourne, but I live in Thurgoona now with my partner. I was looking to do something a bit more fulfilling and La Trobe was nice and close to me, so here I am. I’m having a great day, met a few people —it’s been lots of fun.”

For Tyla, who moved to the Border from South Africa as a child, choosing to study close to home felt like “a no brainer.”

“I’d heard that La Trobe has a really good psych course and that the lecturers and teachers are really supportive and helpful here, so it’s kind of like a no brainer to go here — and also stay with my parents, save a little bit more money.”

All the best to Charlotte, Tyla, and all our new starters— we’re sure the semester will be full of new connections and great memories! 

The post Finding connection at orientation appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Hey, I’m Monty! I’m officially back as your Senior Student Storyteller for 2026! 

Somehow, I’ve levelled up from being “just another face in the reel” to now guiding this incredible duo… though between us, they’re usually the ones sending me the latest trends and teaching me what’s actually cool. I like to think I bring the experience; they bring the speed. I occasionally feel like a fossil but I’m a very enthusiastic fossil. 

I’m currently in my last semester of a Master’s in Sport Management and if there’s one thing I love, it’s diving deep into uni life (sometimes literally – shoutout to Dive La Trobe). I’ve lived on campus, volunteered across programs, worked with Student Communications, and probably spent too much time admiring the ducks at Simpson Lawn. 

Coming back in a senior capacity feels special. I’m excited to guide Peyton and Niharika, share what I’ve learned about storytelling and campus life and honestly, learn from them too. That’s the best part of this role: it’s never one-way. 

A massive thank you to Giacinta, who constantly pushes me to sharpen my ideas and always gives feedback that makes me better, and to Melia, who has genuinely been my workplace mentor at La Trobe — always patient, always encouraging, always ready to listen. 

Here’s to another semester of stories, laughs, and making campus feel a little more like home. 

Peyton Rielley: Queen Social Butterfly 

Hey, I’m Peyton. I’m one of the new MyLatrobe Storytellers for semester one for 2026. I’m a first year student studying a Bachelor of Media and Communications. It’s a bit of a mouthful but in short it means I like to talk to people. I’m from the southwest of WA, where the beaches are beautiful and the weather is rather warm. I love building connections with others, I’ve found that it makes new experiences less daunting. Building relationships with others has helped me stay connected with people from all different aspects of my life. I love connecting with people over sport and food. Socializing and creating a community with others is something that has grown to be a big part of who I am. I also love all things sport related, I love watching it, I love coaching it and playing it and I love being a part of it. Sport has presented me with so many opportunities to thrive and succeed in high pressure environments. It’s taught me how to lead, communicate effectively, foster relationships and build a community. I’ll always be thankful for the family sport has given me and continues to give me. I hope to continue my passion for sport throughout uni. If you see me around campus, say hey I’m always happy to chat. 

This year, I’m hoping to try new things and see how big my comfort zone really is, meet new people and enjoy every opportunity I get to experience. 

Niharika Malviya : Professional Yes-Sayer, Full-Time Seeker  

Hi, I’m Niharika and I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Business Analytics at La Trobe University. On paper, that sounds structured and analytical and it is but outside the classroom, my university journey has been mostly experimental.  

I moved to Australia as an international student and began my life at La Trobe in student accommodation, learning how to balance independence, shared kitchens, and the quiet courage it takes to start over somewhere new. Those early days were equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Trying to navigate new systems, new friendships, and occasionally pretending I knew exactly where I was going on campus (I didn’t).  

I didn’t arrive with a perfectly mapped-out plan. Instead, I became what I like to call a “seeker.” I said yes to new experiences, yes to stepping slightly outside my comfort zone, and yes to exploring parts of campus I hadn’t noticed before. Somewhere between late-night walks around Chisholm Lake, stargazing at the amphitheatre with good music, dancing around uni, and filming spontaneous reels just for fun, I realised I genuinely enjoy trying new things. I love connecting with people over shared interests of food, long conversations, creative ideas, or random plans that start with “why not?”  

As your Student Storyteller, I hope to create content that reflects our journey. I want fellow students to feel heard, seen, and genuinely communicated with. If you’re still exploring too, WELCOME: I’m right there with you.  

The post Meet your Semester 1 storytellers! appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

When Monty and a team of La Trobe Business School students noticed that many peers relied on instant noodles and pre-packaged meals, they saw an opportunity to make a real difference. Their idea was simple yet powerful: teach students practical cooking skills in a fun social setting and leave a lasting legacy through a digital toolkit.

With support from a Student Experience Grant, Cook It Up became a reality, combining chef-led workshops, hands-on learning and community building.

The challenge

University life often means living away from home for the first time. For many students, cooking feels intimidating – limited confidence, tight budgets and lack of know-how lead to unhealthy habits. Monty’s team wanted to change that by creating an experience that was educational, inclusive and enjoyable.

The project

The team delivered two fully booked workshops featuring Chef David Prior and fresh produce partners. Students learned to prepare dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice, handmade pasta and tiramisu – meals they never imagined they could cook themselves.

To ensure long-term impact, the workshops were filmed and resources developed to form the Cook It Up Digital Toolkit:

Workshop #1 – Hainanese chicken

Watch the video here
Download the recipe card:

Workshop #2 – Fresh egg pappardelle with puttanesca and basil pesto + classic tiramisu

Watch the video here
Download the recipe card:

Impact

• 30 students attended the workshops (with waitlists)
• 250+ students engaged online through promotions
• Students reported feeling more confident and connected:

“I’ve never cooked a full dish before. This workshop made me feel so confident.” – Vibhi

“It felt like a family meal, I met people I wouldn’t normally talk to.” – Belle

“The chef made everything feel simple. I actually want to cook now.” – Ira

The project didn’t just teach cooking – it created a sense of belonging and sparked friendships.

Lessons learned

1. Start planning early, especially for sourcing chefs and filming logistics.
2. Interactive, hands-on activities make learning fun and inclusive.
3. Collaboration with external partners adds authenticity and value.

Advice for future applicants

Monty’s top tips:

• Identify a real student need
• Build a team you trust and divide tasks early
• Think long-term – projects with lasting impact stand out

Why apply for a Student Experience Grant?

The grant gives you the resources and support to turn your idea into something that benefits the entire student community. If you have an idea that could improve student life, take the leap – your project could be the next success story.

The post Cook it Up – Turning kitchens into community spaces appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Why join La Trobe Leaders?

As a Leader, you’ll help welcome new students, support key campus events and strengthen our community. It’s flexible, hands‑on experience that boosts your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, all while helping fellow students thrive.

About the MyLaTrobe Storyteller role

The Storyteller program is continuing in 2026. It offers three paid, content creation internships, where you’ll help produce authentic student‑led content for MyLaTrobe’s social media channels. As a Storyteller, you’ll connect with other students by sharing real student voices and experiences.

The roles include two Student Storytellers and one Senior Student Storyteller for Semester 1, 2026. The Senior Student Storyteller role is for both Semester 1 and 2, 2026.

What’s in it for you?

• Get paid to create social media content
• Build your portfolio in media, communications or digital content
• Work closely with the MyLaTrobe and Student Communications teams
• Develop industry‑ready creative and storytelling skills
• Help shape the way we share student life at La Trobe

Who can apply?

• Members of the La Trobe Leaders Program (or planning to apply)
• All currently enrolled La Trobe students
• Students from all campuses and all year levels
• Students from any discipline — with a preference for marketing, media, communications or other related fields)

Key selection criteria

• Must be an active member of the La Trobe Leaders’ Program (or apply to join if not already a member)
• Must have a valid WWCC (employee)
• Must agree to adhere to La Trobe’s cultural qualities and staff policies
• Must be available to work 7 hours per week for the duration of the project – 15 weeks (a total of 105 hours)
• Demonstrate good interpersonal skills
• Have strong written communication skills
• Demonstrated initiative and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively
• Demonstrated ability to work to a deadline
• Experience creating content for social media and online platforms a bonus

Key dates

Applications for the MyLaTrobe Storyteller role close at 5pm, Tuesday 3 February 2026. The roles will ideally commence in the week of Monday 16 February 2026.

How to apply

1. Apply for the La Trobe Leaders Program today

2. Then send a written Storyteller application by 3 February to Melia Donk, Manager – Digital Student Media & Campaigns, at M.Donk@latrobe.edu.au. Please include:

• your resume
• a cover letter
• a document addressing the selection criteria listed above

If you’re passionate about community, creativity and making campus life better for others, this is your chance to do it all.

The post Become a La Trobe Leader and apply to be a paid MyLaTrobe Storyteller! appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

More than a study abroad program, the Yani Global Exchange is a life-changing opportunity for First Nations students at La Trobe University to explore the world through the lens of Indigenous knowledge, culture and community.

Inspired by the Woi Wurrung word Yani, meaning “to journey,” the program enables students to study at Indigenous partner universities across the globe, building meaningful connections with First Nations peoples worldwide. Yani reflects La Trobe’s strong commitment to working alongside Indigenous communities and is one of the few programs of its kind globally

Students who have participated in Yani describe their experience as a powerful and positive experience that deepened their cultural identity, built their confidence and cultural pride and offered invaluable personal and academic growth.

Hear from a student

Ben Parry, a student at La Trobe joined the program as part of the very first cohort, studying at the University of Calgary in Canada.

Where did you go for your exchange and what made you want to apply?

I went to the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. I applied for the Yani exchange program because I wanted to travel and see what university and culture was like on the other side of the earth.

How has the exchange helped you grow personally or academically?

My exchange helped me grow as a person, I feel more confident with my ability to handle new situations. Academically I developed my idea for my honours thesis while on exchange with the help of my overseas lecturer.

Would you recommend the exchange program to other students?

I would recommend the exchange program to anyone who is able to apply. It is an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life and the staff at La Trobe University were always available to help support me with any issues I had, making the experience pleasant and easier than I thought it would be.

How does the program work?

Yani is a culturally safe and responsive student exchange program that offers First nations students a rare opportunity to study a semester abroad in a supportive environment. This is achieved through direct engagement with Indigenous Student Service Units, ensuring holistic and tailored support for every stage of the experience.

To date, two cohorts of Indigenous students have participated in learning abroad through the Yani Global Exchange. While we are yet to welcome a cohort of incoming First Nations students, we are working with our partners to make this happen soon.

Who is Yani for?

If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student at La Trobe and you’re curious about studying overseas, Yani is for you.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just reach out to us, and we’ll help you explore how Yani can fit into your course. Whether you’re just starting to think about going abroad or already have a destination in mind, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Join Yani in 2026

Applications are now open to join the Yani Global Exchange in 2026 and close on Sunday 30 November (deadline has been extended).

• Express your interest

Start by getting in touch with us to let us know you’re interested in the Yani Global Exchange. We’ll arrange a time to chat about the program and how it can fit into your study plans. Email us at Indigenous_studentservices@latrobe.edu.au.

• Begin your application

Once you’ve expressed interest, head over to the La Trobe Semester Abroad page and follow steps 1–6 to begin your application.

To learn more about the Yani program, visit the website.

The post Travel, learn and connect through Indigenous culture and community appeared first on MyLaTrobe.