Brandi Ladyman-Miller
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
She has always been interested in the minds of people, says Brandi Ladyman-Miller who is currently in the third year of her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
“I felt that studying psychology would be beneficial in leading me on the right path towards better understanding how individuals think and make the decisions they make. I also believe that helping other people live better lives provides a sense of purpose for them, but also for yourself. Therefore, choosing to study psychology felt like the right decision as I’ll be able to use my knowledge to help others.”
It's a decision she definitely hasn’t regretted.
“Studying psychology has improved not only my research skills and knowledge, but also my understanding of who I am as a person, and how my personality affects how I think, feel and interact with others.
“When I graduate, I’d love to work in a profession that enables me to use my knowledge and abilities to support youth in Aotearoa. I believe in the importance of mental health services for all individuals, particularly for youth, thus I’d love to work with child and youth mental health services in the future.”
The right choice
AUT’s reputation as a supportive university was a key reason she chose it for her studies, Brandi says.
“I chose AUT because, after extensive research into AUT, I found there to be an amazing support system within the university. It’s evident that the lecturers and the wider community care about creating a safe environment and a high standard of education. This has proved to be true throughout the years I’ve been here.
“Since starting at AUT, I’ve always been surrounded by immensely supportive groups. This has allowed us to learn and grow from one another, be there for each other when we’re handing in assignments at the stroke of midnight, or laugh together when we need cheering up. In my first year at AUT, I also went through a life-altering personal trauma that significantly impacted my studies. AUT provided me with support throughout the entire process, and continues to support me. If it wasn’t for all of this support from AUT, I don’t believe I’d be where I am in my studies now.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend studying at AUT to other students.
“This curriculum has well exceeded my expectations, so I’d absolutely suggest it to others. I knew going into this degree that I’d learn and understand concepts and theories, but it has also helped me to understand other people's views and beliefs, which has broadened my perspective. The conversations that have emerged in lectures, tutorials and one-on-one meetings with professors have been eye-opening, and have had a significant influence on the way I think and the decisions I make.”
Advice for other students
Now in the final year of her degree, Brandi has some excellent advice for other students.
“My biggest piece of advice, which has been most helpful to me throughout my time at AUT, is to make sure to keep a calendar and a journal with deadlines for assignments so that you can remain on top of things and avoid falling behind. In addition to aiding in studies, journals can also help you prioritise personal time so that you don’t overstress yourself, as sometimes life can get ahead of you.”
Her other piece of advice is simple: have fun at university.
“Joining a new environment, making new friends and adjusting to university life can be challenging, but the experience that is to come is worth it all. Take a breath and relax, your peers and professors are there to support you.”
