GRACE UNDER PRESSURE: “Unravelling the Minds of Innocence: Mastering the Healing Art of Childhood Trauma and Autism in Clinical Psychology”

As of 2023, Grace Nga Jee Ern stands tall as a recent graduate of HELP University, armed with a Bachelor of Psychology and a prestigious accolade – the Tan Sri Datuk Paduka Dr. Hajjah Saleha Outstanding Achievement Award. Grace’s journey through her university years was marked not only by academic brilliance but also by her enthusiastic participation in extracurricular activities, complemented by her undeniable leadership prowess. Her decision to embrace the world of Psychology through HELP University’s Bachelor of Psychology programme remains a source of immense pride for her.

However, for Grace, the choice to delve into the intricate realms of Psychology was deeply personal. It was a journey that ignited from her life’s circumstances, where she navigated the challenges of autism within her family. This profound experience acted as the catalyst for her curiosity and passion for the world of psychology. With an unwavering commitment to her academic aspirations, Grace began her quest to unearth the ideal psychology programme in Malaysia, and she discovered that HELP University was a perfect fit for her.

Her choice was rooted in more than just personal reasons as she recognized HELP University’s sterling reputation for academic excellence, coupled with her conviction that HELP’s rigorous and demanding educational environment would pave the way for a flourishing career in Psychology. Grace emphasized, “HELP’s experienced faculty members are passionate about teaching and dedicated to their students’ success. I knew that I would be learning from the best in the field and that they would provide me with the guidance and support I needed to thrive as a psychology student. Without my lecturers, I would not be the person I am today.”

Having successfully graduated from HELP University, Grace embarked on a new chapter of her educational journey. With aspirations to specialize further, she received invitations from prestigious institutions in the United States of America. She decided to pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at *Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Here, she not only deepens her knowledge but also actively contributes to the Center for Child Trauma Assessment, Services & Systems Integration (CCTASSI), a critical component of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN).

What drew Grace to the field of Psychology was its practical applications and versatility. She acknowledges the fact that the knowledge and skills she acquired can be applied across various domains. Grace explained, “Although I have decided to pursue Clinical Psychology as a career, I realized that learning psychology as my undergraduate degree opened up many different career paths and opportunities for me. Additionally, I was fascinated by how psychology seamlessly relates to my everyday life. I could apply the theories I learned in class to my interactions with people and make sense of my past experiences.”

Being recognized as this year’s recipient of HELP University’s Outstanding Achievement Tan Sri Award was a humbling experience for Grace. She expressed her feelings, saying, “I am humbled and overwhelmed to be the recipient of HELP University’s Outstanding Achievement Tan Sri Award. It is an incredible honour and a moment that I will cherish for the rest of my life. To be recognized for my academic achievements and contributions to the university community means more than words can express.”

Grace’s words of encouragement resonate with students who share her passion for Psychology. She urges them to pursue their dreams without hesitation. “Psychology is a fascinating and dynamic field that offers a wealth of knowledge and practical skills that can be applied to a wide range of fields. Studying psychology will give you a deeper understanding of human behaviour and the workings of the human mind, which is valuable knowledge in any profession or personal setting,” she emphasized.

She also added, “In addition to the practical benefits, studying psychology is also incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. You will have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives and contribute to a better understanding of human behaviour on a larger scale.”

Parting with invaluable advice, Grace reminds students those challenges and obstacles are an inevitable part of the journey. Nevertheless, they should dream big and never shy away from adversity. She concluded, “Ultimately, studying psychology is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and always strive to learn and improve. I wish you all the best in your academic pursuits and beyond.” Grace Nga Jee Ern is a true testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion, and her story serves as an inspiring beacon for aspiring psychologists.

*(Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, located in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, stands as a prominent medical school in the United States. It is renowned for its pioneering research and comprehensive medical education programs, and Grace is proud to be a part of this distinguished institution.) *