Allyse Toohey, a proud Gomeroi woman, shares her experience of completing a Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of Wollongong and her plans for future studies.
Having grown up in Shellharbour, Allyse has always been interested in how the human brain works, and the environmental factors that play a role in how we function.
“I’m ADHD, meaning my brain does not function the same way as the majority of the population…I’m neurologically diverse… So, I have always found how people think and how their brain works interesting, and psychology is one way to understand people.”
Whilst completing her degree, Allyse found she was unable to find balance working in a retail position while studying full-time. Which led her to apply for and successfully gain a position as a Student Ambassador at the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre (WIC). Through this position she was able to support the next generation of Indigenous students find their why and fight back against negative stereotypes through education and employment opportunities. WIC acted as a home base for Allyse during her degree and helped her throughout her studies by providing the support and resources that enabled her to excel.
Since completing the first stage of her studies, Allyse strongly recommends students to “find your own balance” between work, studies, and activities both inside and outside of university.
“Don’t push yourself if you can’t, I didn’t try to do everything, and it meant I was able to give 100% attention to a task and be present. Which allowed me to get the marks I was proud of.”
Allyse intends on completing a Master’s Degree and returning to UOW for an Honours program before pursuing a career as a registered Psychologist.
Congratulations on completing this stage of your studies Allyse, and to your ambitions in the field of Psychology. Good luck in your future studies!