Karthiga Srinithi B R

Three years ago, when I joined Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science (KCLAS) as a Psychology student, I expected to gain academic knowledge. What I didn't anticipate was how much the experience would shape me as an individual.

KCLAS taught me lessons that extended far beyond textbooks—building confidence, becoming independent, navigating uncertainty, and learning how to figure things out on my own. The liberal arts ecosystem exposed me to interdisciplinary learning, diverse perspectives, workshops, certifications, and opportunities that challenged me to think beyond conventional boundaries. I am grateful to have completed the Liberal Arts Certificate with an A+.

Beyond academics, some of my most valuable learning happened outside the classroom:

- Served as the Events & Competitions Chair of the Rotaract Club, where I developed leadership, teamwork, and event management skills.

- Contributed to the Marketing Team of Yugam, one of India's largest techno-cultural festivals, gaining exposure to large-scale event execution and strategic communication.

- Participated in workshops, conferences, and learning experiences across different settings, constantly pushing myself beyond my comfort zone.

- Had the privilege of travelling to Budapest, Hungary, for an international summer course through the Edge Plus Program, an experience that broadened my global perspective on education and culture.

- Engaged in community awareness and educational initiatives, reinforcing my belief that psychology can create meaningful impact at the grassroots level.

- Completed three internships across different organizations, gaining hands-on exposure to diverse areas of psychology and understanding how theory translates into practice.

One of my biggest takeaways from these experiences is this: Psychology in India is still an evolving field. While the discipline is growing rapidly, its application, awareness, and integration into society continue to develop. My internship experiences helped me understand both the immense potential of the field and the work that still lies ahead. Growth takes time, and being part of this evolution is both exciting and meaningful.

As I close this chapter, I am grateful to my professors, mentors, peers, and everyone who contributed to this journey. Every opportunity, challenge, success, and setback has played a role in shaping who I am today.

Here's to lifelong learning, meaningful impact, and the next chapter ahead.

From 3–12 February 2026, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in an International Immersion Program at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Budapest, Hungary, as part of the course Non-Verbal Brain. Travelling from Bengaluru through Germany and finally arriving in Budapest was more than just a change in geography—it was an experience that broadened my perspective on learning, culture, and personal growth. I am grateful to our mentor Soma, course lead Zsuzsanna, and my mentor and Head of Department, Dr. Gnana Prakash, Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science, whose guidance and support made this enriching experience possible. The program exposed me to a learning environment that emphasized hands-on activities, practical application, and active participation. Experiencing psychology and neuroscience concepts through interactive learning methods made the entire journey both engaging and memorable. Living and learning in a foreign country challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. Interacting with people from different backgrounds, adapting to new customs, and navigating unfamiliar surroundings independently helped me develop confidence, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. Beyond academics, I had the opportunity to explore Hungary's rich history and heritage through visits to the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle, St. Stephen's Basilica, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the Hungarian State Opera House, and the historic town of Visegrád. A day trip to the charming riverside village of Szentendre offered a glimpse into local Hungarian life and culture. One of the highlights of the immersion was crossing another border for a day trip to Vienna, Austria, where we visited St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Sigmund Freud Museum—an especially meaningful experience for anyone passionate about psychology. This immersion was not just about academics; it was about learning to view the world through a broader lens, embracing new experiences, and building connections that extend beyond classrooms and countries. Grateful to everyone who made this experience possible and to the wonderful people I met along the way. Experiences like these reaffirm the value of global education in shaping both professional aspirations and personal growth. Have you ever had a learning experience abroad that changed the way you see the world? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments.

As part of our Community Engagement Program, I had the opportunity to engage with students of Grades 6, 7, and 8 at the Government School in Neelikonampalayam from February 17–20.

Over four days, we conducted interactive sessions on topics such as drug awareness, mental health, anger management, menstruation, bullying, gender stereotypes, and inclusivity. Through various ice-breakers, activities, and discussions, we aimed to create a safe and engaging space where students could learn, share, and reflect on these important issues.

The experience reinforced the importance of early awareness and open conversations in shaping healthier attitudes and behaviors among young minds. It was both rewarding and insightful to witness the students' enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to participate.

Grateful for this opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow through meaningful community engagement.