Why did you choose La Trobe’s Digital Health course?

Digital Health wasn’t something I discovered in a classroom, it grew out of lived experience. I come from Nepal, where access to healthcare often depends on geography, weather, and timing. I’ve seen people walk hours to reach a health facility, only to arrive too late. I’ve also worked on telehealth programs and digital tools in rural settings and realised that technology, when used thoughtfully, can change outcomes; not by replacing care, but by extending it.

I chose Digital Health because I wanted to understand how systems really work, why good ideas fail, and what it takes to design solutions that people can use and trust.

What have been your favourite subjects in the course so far?

My favourite subject has been Digital Health design and implementation, particularly through the lens of systems thinking. It finally put into words something I have felt for a long time: that healthcare is never just about technology. It’s about people, workflows, culture, leadership, policy, and context, all interacting at once.

Systems thinking helped me see why small changes can have big ripple effects, and why digital health solutions must fit into existing systems. It deeply resonates with the work I’ve done in rural health and continues to shape how I think about design and decision-making.

What have you found most challenging in the course so far?

The most challenging part has been accepting the complexity of healthcare systems. There are no simple fixes. Ethical considerations, user resistance, limited resources, and policy constraints all matter, and they often conflict with each other. It can be overwhelming at times, but that challenge has also been grounding. It’s taught me that responsible digital health work requires patience, humility, and collaboration. Change doesn’t happen fast, but it can happen when people are willing to listen and adapt.

Please share a bit about yourself – what do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy quiet moments spent thinking, writing, and reflecting. I like meaningful conversations and learning about peoples’ lived experiences. Music helps me slow down, and I’m drawn to work that centres dignity, care, and community. Whether in aged care, digital health, or everyday life, I value human connection and empathy above all else.

Where would you like to be in 5 years’ time?

In five years, I see myself working in digital health in a grounded way that supports health systems and provides better service to patients, especially in rural and underserved communities. I want to contribute to solutions that are practical, ethical, and designed with patient needs in mind.

More than titles or roles, I hope to remain someone who listens deeply, designs thoughtfully, and never loses sight of the human side of healthcare.

Students of the Master of Digital Health complete their studies equipped to lead meaningful change in healthcare. Combining practical insights with digital innovation, they are industry-ready to shape healthcare delivery with clinical skills, technical fluency, and strategic thinking.

Learn more about La Trobe’s Master of Digital Health course or get in touch with our team of Enrolment Advisors via (+61 3) 9917 3009 or onlinecourses@latrobe.edu.au. 

The post Master of Digital Health student spotlight: Pratima Mahata appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

What if you’re good at everything… but not the best at anything? 

Once, my tutor said to me, 
“Niharika, you’re a jack of all trades – but have you mastered any one?” 

I awkwardly laughed and moved on, not realising how much that line would stay with me. 

At the time, it felt like one of those things you hear, think about briefly, and forget. Like advice that sounds important, but not immediately relevant. 

Turns out, it became something I kept coming back to and it only got deeper over time. 

Jack of all trades, but master of none, 
Would it be better just knowing one? 
Am I good at anything I’ve ever begun, 
Or just trying everything for the fun? 

It didn’t hit all at once. Just small moments. Quiet comparisons. Watching someone be really good at something and thinking – that’s impressive… and slightly inconvenient for my self-esteem. 

Because when I looked at everything I’d tried, it all felt a bit scattered. 

I used to be into art – something I was good at, something people noticed, but never something I took further. Singing was fun, but not something I stayed with long enough. I got into basketball for a while, then slowly retired (not officially – just by not putting in the effort). 

And then there was dancing – something I’m actually good at. I perform, I enjoy it, and I keep coming back to it. Not because I have to, but because I want to. 

I’m just… not the best at it. 

Even academically, I’ve always been somewhere in the middle. Doing well, but not quite that student. 

From where I stood, it felt like I was doing a bit of everything – but not really becoming anything. 

What made it more confusing was how others saw it. 

Because from the outside, it didn’t look like that at all. 

People came to me for help. Friends opened up to me when they were struggling. Somehow, I became the “advice person” – which felt ironic, considering I’m still figuring things out myself.

And that made me pause. 

Because while I was questioning what I was good at, others seemed to think I already had something. 

Maybe that’s what being human is – you can have a bit of everything. 

Maybe I’m not great at singing, but I’m a good listener. 

Maybe I didn’t stick with basketball, but I learned how to show up when something mattered. 

Maybe I’m not the best dancer, but I enjoy it – and maybe that counts for more than I thought. 

Somewhere in between all of that, something shifted. 

It reminded me of the movie 3 Idiots – how sometimes it’s not about being the best at something, but about genuinely enjoying what you do. 

The doubt didn’t disappear completely. 

But it stopped feeling like the whole story. 

Because I started to realise that mastering something doesn’t just come from trying: it takes consistency, patience, and the willingness to stay. 

And honestly, that’s something I’m still working on. 

Maybe I just haven’t found that one thing I want to stick with long enough. 

Or maybe I’m still figuring out if I even need to. 

But for now, I think that’s okay. 

Because not everything has to turn into something you master. 

Some things can just be things you enjoy. 

Things you try, experience, and carry with you – even if they don’t show up as results. 

Jack of all trades, still mastering none, 
But I’ve stopped feeling sorry – I’m learning, and life’s fun. 

The post Jack of All, Still Figuring It Out appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Studying and socialising don’t always go hand in hand. 

Now that I’m halfway through my first semester at La Trobe, I feel like I’ve found a balance between the two. So, here’s what I like to call the “Peyton Pathway” – how to maintain an iconic social life while still being an academic weapon. 

Step 1: Plan Everything (Yes, Everything) 

Start by laying out your to-do list with deadlines, alongside your social plans for the week. 

This works best in a planner or diary – like the free planners handed out during Orientation. 

A good rule I follow is: 
3 academic priorities + 2–3 social events each week. 

Focus on immediate tasks like assignments and quizzes first, and don’t hesitate to reach out to tutors, lecturers, or La Trobe Wellbeing Services if you need support. 

When it comes to social events, choose the ones you genuinely want to attend – not the ones you feel obligated to go to. 

Step 2: Optimise Your Time 

The second step is making the most of the time you’d usually waste. 

Whether you’re on public transport or in the back of an Uber, bring your laptop and use that time to: 

• review notes  

• watch a lecture  

• complete pre-tutorial work  

You’re going to be sitting there anyway, so you might as well get something done. 

This has helped me a lot, especially when I’m short on time but still want to show up for social plans. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference. 

Step 3: Stay Grounded in Your Why 

The final step is to remember why you’re here. Everyone’s version of success looks different, and there’s no single path to achieving it. Balancing study and social life can sometimes feel overwhelming, but often it’s just about shifting your perspective. 

Most importantly, don’t feel guilty for enjoying your time outside of sudying. 

Because at the end of the day, university isn’t just about what you achieve academically… it’s also about the experiences you create along the way. 

And that’s the Peyton Pathway – finding your balance, showing up for your goals, and still making the most of everything uni has to offer. 

This article was written by Peyton Rielley, a Bachelor of Media and Communications student who is currently interning with La Trobe’s Student Communications team.

The post The Peyton Pathway: balancing study and a social life at Uni appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

You Said, We Did is how we show you that we’re listening and taking real action based on what you’ve told us.

Ready to see your feedback in action? Here are four changes we’ve made recently. You can also head to the You Said, We Did page to see more ways your voice has shaped the La Trobe experience. 

You said: You weren’t always sure how to get help to feel safe on campus and wanted more options to access on-campus support.

We did: We launched the UniSafe app and our plan to respond to the National Code for Gender Based Violence, including new programs and workshops. 

The UniSafe app launched at the Melbourne (Bundoora) campus to help you get around safely after dark. Available between 6pm and 6am, the app lets you book someone from the Security team to accompany you on foot or via vehicle. UniSafe has already supported you with more than 4,800 escorted trips this year! 

You said: You want more opportunities to connect with other students, collaborate in your course and feel part of the La Trobe community.

We did: We expanded opportunities for students to connect and collaborate through initiatives such as the Student Council, student‑led clubs and activities and Student Experience Grants that support peer connection, belonging and student‑led projects. 

In 2025, we launched our Student Experience Grants, awarding more than $25,000 to student‑led projects that improved the student experience. These grants empowered students like you to turn ideas into reality – creating new spaces to belong, practical tools to support learning and events that helped students to connect with each other and industry. Learn more about last year’s recipients and how their projects have made an impact. 

We also continued to support connection through the Student Council and student‑led clubs and activities. There are now 80 affiliated student clubs across our campuses, which helped to organise more than 700 activities over 2025 – creating more ways to meet people, get involved and feel part of the La Trobe community. 

You said: You want access to health, wellbeing and support services that fit around your study and life commitments.

We did: We introduced outside standard hours counselling appointments and expanded ASK La Trobe service hours during busy periods, so that there’s more support available when you need it most. Whether you’re juggling classes, work or personal responsibilities, we know life doesn’t always fit neatly into business hours and we’re here to support you. 

You can now book free counselling appointments outside standard hours, with later sessions and flexible options that let you connect in the way that works best for you.  

We also extended ASK La Trobe service hours during peak times, so help is available when demand is highest – from enrolment and fees to timetables and results, we’re here to help. 

You said: Starting uni and knowing where to find the right information felt overwhelming and confusing. 

We did: We rebuilt the New to La Trobe website and launched the New Student Guide to make starting at La Trobe clearer, simpler and easier to navigate, working closely with students to make sure it covers what matters most when you’re new to La Trobe.  

The New to La Trobe website puts all the essential information in one place, with clear steps, key dates and support options to ensure you feel prepared, connected and ready to make the most of your uni experience. We  

We’ve also created the New Student Guide – your step‑by‑step guide to everything you need to know in your first study period. From Orientation and first classes to exams and final assessments, it’s there to help you start strong and stay on track. Even if you’re not a new student, it’s a handy guide you can come back to whenever you need a reset or reminder. 

The post You Said, We Did – your voice matters appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

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.