For Anu, studying Mental Health and Psychosocial Support at QMU's Institute for Global Health and Development was an opportunity to bring her experience as a social worker in India into a learning environment shaped by humanitarian perspectives from around the world. Through case studies, group projects and discussions on forced migration, she deepened her understanding of the emotional and psychosocial aspects of humanitarian work. With support from her lecturers and the wider QMU community, Anu completed her master’s and now works as a Housing First Support Worker with Simon Community Scotland, applying the skills she gained to support people in her daily work.
Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
I applied to four universities and got offers from all four. The first reason QMU stood out to me was that it has a history of development and interest in women’s education. The second reason was the course the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support course itself. I’m a social worker from India and structure of the course, which enabled humanitarians from different countries to sharing their lived experiences with each other was very important for me.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
Case studies, online and in-person sessions, lectures. The papers we read, the projects we worked as a team all of them were very fascinating. The discussions around forced migration and the emotional and psychosocial aspects of humanitarian work were particularly fascinating.I also enjoyed preparing podcasts and exploring real-life case studies. One of my favourite experiences was bringing a real case from the UN into a lecture and discussing its strengths and limitations with my classmates.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
The podcast in FDI was a nice experience. It was interesting to bring media into my learning and explore how effectively our group could communicate the positive impact of humanitarian support.
The experience also encouraged us to reflect on how systems work and what might be overlooked when supporting vulnerable communities.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
I had a PAT (Personal Academic Tutor) who was very supportive and went beyond the working hours to support me when I had difficulties. My course leader was also super friendly and I always felt I could discuss my thoughts and learning. When I was experiencing poor health during my last semester, he even offered an extension to my dissertation deadline and said "you need to take care of yourself first. As someone who has trauma from the educational system, that had a big impact on me. My supervisor supported me very well through my my dissertation which I’m proud of, and his suggestions made it much better.
What challenges did you face with the course and/or university life? How did you overcome
them?
My biggest challenge was adjusting to life in student accommodation. With the support of my Personal Academic Tutor and dissertation supervisor, the accommodation team helped me move to a different flat. I was very grateful for the support I received from the IGHD department, who took my wellbeing seriously and continued to support me throughout my time at QMU.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
Choosing QMU for my master’s in MHPSS was a great decision. Buckle up because you will be working hard from day 1 but it will be worth it!
Did you join any schemes/initiatives to enhance your learning and development such as a
mentoring scheme, volunteering scheme, etc.?
As was a student ambassador while I was in QMU and was also a volunteer for food pantry.
Did you use any University services to support you through your university journey and how did they help you?
The Effective Learning Service (ELS) helped me a lot in proof reading my writings, which helped me
to land in good grades for my essays and dissertation.
Did you attend an online or in person Open Day/Offer Holder day before coming to QMU?
I did attend an online open day from India where I met some of the IGHD teaching staff.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
Using the library and the resources that you can assess via your student portal. Those are priceless.
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university?
“An unexpected delay is merely a detour, not a dead end”.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
I’m currently working as a Housing First Support Worker with Simon Community Scotland. I apply the skills I learned at QMU on a daily basis.
Anything else you’d like to share about life at QMU or as a graduate?
I can’t believe 1 year went by so quickly. It was eventful, very eye-opening about the humanitarian sector and its importance. QMU helped me find my real potential.
