“I feel really excited,” Jayne says. “There’s a huge sense of accomplishment and pride after finishing the degree. It’s been a lot of hard work, so reaching this point is incredibly rewarding.”
Jayne’s passion for psychology stems from a long-standing fascination with the connection between mental and physical health, and the powerful role wellbeing plays in improving people’s lives. That interest has led her to continue straight into her Honours year, a critical next step in the six-year pathway toward becoming a registered psychologist.
“My goal is registration,” she says, “and Honours is an important part of that journey.”
A standout feature of Jayne’s experience has been her ability to study predominantly online while remaining connected to the La Trobe University Mildura campus. She credits online learning with providing the flexibility to study at her own pace and in her own space, while the local campus offered vital support when needed.
“Having the Mildura campus nearby has been the perfect complement,” she says. “I can use the library, printing, fast internet, or just ask questions in person. Everything feels really accessible.”
Jayne has also immersed herself in campus life, serving as both a Peer Learning Advisor and President of the La Trobe Student Association. Guided by the principle “see a need, fill a need,” she says these roles strengthened her skills, connections, and confidence, even opening doors to local research opportunities.
Looking ahead, Jayne hopes to remain in Mildura, eventually working as a psychologist in private practice and supporting the wellbeing of her community she has always called home.
