On Thursday the 23rd of January St Benedict’s welcomed Dr Nikki Schuck in to talk students about her work as a Clinical Psychologist; here Dr Schuck shares her experience of coming into school to deliver her talk.

"Spending a large part of my working life teaching other mental health professionals, I was surprised by how nervous I was in the lead up to delivering my "What is Clinical Psychology" talk to the St Benedict's students. However, after a shaky start I was put at my ease by the kind and receptive audience. The teenagers were extremely polite and attentive and asked startlingly perceptive questions regarding a career in Clinical Psychology. By the end of the talk I would have been happy to stay and continue the lecture well into the afternoon. I heard myself offering to come back at any time, should they need.

I would recommend to any parent/carer to offer their time should you feel able. We often think that what we do would be of no interest to teenagers- but other peoples' children will be far more interested in what you do than your own…. It is sometimes difficult for students to link what they are studying to the real world- and I feel it must help to maintain motivation to help understand where all this effort may lead. The students are extremely welcoming and will without a doubt put you at your ease. I give the experience five stars- highly recommended".

Dr Nikki Schuck – Clinical Psychologist