Maintaining Balance Key to Graduate’s Academic Success

Motivated by the wide range of opportunities within her field and a strong desire to help others, University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) graduate Ms Parishka Govender completed her Bachelor of Social Sciences Degree, majoring in Psychology and Criminology, disciplines that reflect her deep interest in understanding human behaviour.

Her academic journey has been shaped by a clear sense of purpose, as she aspires to make a meaningful contribution to both the mental health and legal sectors.

During her undergraduate studies, Govender received funding through the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA), a bursary awarded to criminology students. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the support played a significant role in enabling her academic success.

She credits her family and friends for their unwavering encouragement throughout her studies. Her family provided both emotional and practical support – offering motivation, care and transportation -while her friends contributed academically and socially, helping her navigate the demands of university life. “When I doubt myself, they are always there, pulling me out of my own head,” she said.

Maintaining balance was central to her success. By planning her weekly tasks in advance, Govender was able to prioritise her academic responsibilities while still making time for herself, although she acknowledges that this became more challenging during examination periods.

While completing her degree was a proud achievement, she views it as the beginning of a longer academic journey. She is currently pursuing an Honours Degree in General Psychology, with the aim of progressing to a master’s programme.

Govender encourages aspiring psychology students to approach the field with awareness and determination. “Do your research and talk to people. Psychology is not as easy as people make it out to be – it is highly competitive, and at times people may undervalue your degree. However, if you are passionate about helping others, remain committed,” she advised.

She concluded with a message of appreciation: “To my family, thank you for always supporting every decision I make and being a constant in my life. To my friends, I wish we could go back to first year – I don’t know how I would have made it through this degree without you.”

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini