The Voice Magazine recently had a chance to chat with Natasha (she/her), Bachelor of Arts in Psychology student from Medicine Hat, Alberta. She explained that this program “will only be the beginning” as she plans “to develop a career in helping change the way the world views trauma, addiction, attachment, and identity.”
On a more personal note, Natasha is “an Albertan student, mother, wife, sister, daughter, granddaughter, and life-long learner (or what my siblings call ‘a nerd’).” She continued, “Below the surface though, I am a healer through and through; I wish life could be long enough to save everyone.”
She had some great study tips for fellow AU learners. “I am motivated by my future career and passion for people, but I also understand that life is stressful, busy, and overwhelming much of the time. My best studying is done in a quiet office at a clean, clutter-free desk with plenty of water (or coffee) nearby and classical music on.”
She also had some advice for new students and/or prospective students. “Read it like you’re going to teach it, and 5-minute pre-study meditations can go a long way towards absorbing the material the first time you read it.”
When she is not busy studying, Natasha loves “reading non-fiction, taking online webinars, being with [her] family, and spending quality time with anyone; deep and meaningful conversations energize [her].”
She had an interesting story to share about the one person who had the greatest influence on her desire to learn. “My interest in psychology began as a child, but my intentionality flourished in high school when I joined the Peer Support Program, offering safe connection to other students who preferred similar-aged supports instead of adults. The program facilitator then (from almost two decades ago) showed me that if I enjoy learning, growth is inevitable. That same program facilitator continues to mentor me today.”
As for her experience with online learning so far? “Learning online has many challenges; it’s not easy to balance the house, two kids, a marriage, and school when each one needs different styles of undivided attention. However, developing self-motivation, organization, and self-regulation skills will only help in any future career, so it’s important to get creative and find what works!”
And her most memorable AU course? “I have enjoyed every course I have taken so far, but Psychology textbooks are the hardest for me to put down as they are non-fiction books (my favorite kind) about my favorite topic! They seem to always put intangible ideas in my head into proper terms and theories, so I learn while simultaneously organizing my brain.”
Natasha has had positive communication with your course tutors. She explained, “The tutor I had in PHIL 152: Basics in Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing was involved, helpful, and encouraging. I am thankful it was one of my earlier courses because it was a great experience that got me ready for more.”
The Voice Magazine asked Natasha which famous person, past or present, she would like to have lunch with and why. “I don’t typically fangirl over actors or musicians, but authors are a different story (pun intended)! I would love to have a meal with Gabor Maté (author, trauma and addictions specialist, and healer). He has a holistic, wholesome, and honest view of the world that I would love to discuss,” she stated.
In fact, she is “currently finishing The Myth of Normal by Gabor and Daniel Maté, which she called “eye-opening to say the least.” She continued, “I highly recommend it; 10/10 for me. Previously, I also read The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks, and that book gives a beautiful perspective on the intricacies of the brain and how much work our personal super computers do for us every moment of every day. After reading that book, I often take moments to appreciate my mind and body for their evolutionary talents and endless hard work to keep me a sane, functioning person.”
Natasha also described her most valuable lesson learned in life. “My most valuable lesson in life so far is that everyone can teach you something if you’re willing to listen with more than ears and eyes.” And her proudest moment? “My proudest moments typically come from parenting; when I see behaviours in my children that show I’m doing a decent job.”
As a final note, she added, “I think the experience of each student is unique, but it’s also fluid. It can change if it needs to, with the right mindset.” Best of luck, Natasha!
At times, in an online learning environment, it can feel like you are all alone, but across the nation and around the globe, students just like you are also pursuing their Athabasca University (AU) studies! Each week, The Voice Magazine will be bringing you some of these stories. If you would like to be featured next, do not hesitate to get in touch!