Somewhere in Between Growth and Uncertainty: Vrinda's Journey at SGT University
Updated on: May 16, 2026
Hello! My name is Vrinda Raheja. I am a student of BSc. (Hons. with Research) Clinical Psychology, alongside a Minor Degree in BSc. (Hons.) Forensic Science at SGT University.
My interest in psychology began in high school, where I found myself drawn to understanding human behaviour. Over time, this curiosity later turned into a clear goal to build a career in psychology.
Why did I join SGT University?
Being a resident of Delhi NCR, I wanted to do my graduation within the same region. After completing my schooling and appearing for CUET UG, I began exploring different universities and courses that aligned with my interests.
Coming from a commerce background, I was particularly inclined towards psychology, having studied it as my fifth subject in grades 11 and 12. With the introduction of the National Education Policy 2020, I had the flexibility to pursue a BSc. in Clinical Psychology, which allowed me to step beyond traditional stream limitations and choose a path that was both relevant and aligned with my interests. NEP 2020 also allowed me to pursue a dual degree, adding a Minor in BSc. (Hons.) Forensic Science.
While exploring different universities that supported this academic direction, I came across SGT University, and something about it caught my attention.
I also spoke to a neighbour who had considered enrolling at SGT University, and their feedback further reinforced my decision. They spoke highly of the faculty, the opportunities available, and the overall learning environment. Looking back, I can confidently say their recommendation was not wrong.
The Beginning: First Year
When I first stepped into SGT University, I carried a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Like most students, I had expectations about academics, friendships, and the kind of person I would become. Moving forward, I realized that this journey has been far more transformative than I ever imagined.
The university pushed me out of my comfort zone from the very beginning. Whether it was adapting to a new academic structure or engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds, every experience contributed to my personal growth. The coursework challenged me to think critically and to go beyond textbook learning, encouraging me to explore concepts in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Right at the beginning of my first year, I actively stepped into the university ecosystem by joining Mannthan, the MUN and Debate Club as a Council Member and Scripting Magazine, the Mind Club of the School of Behavioural Sciences, as a Literary Board Member.
One of the earliest memorable experiences was attending my first international conference session on the topic "Holistic Health: Explorating Interconnected Realms of Well-being (HHERW 2024)," which we celebrated as the School of Behavioural Sciences' 10th anniversary, that gave me a sense of belonging to something much larger than myself.
Exploring, Leading, and Growing
As the year progressed, I found myself exploring performative spaces as well. Participating in Nukkad Natak competitions at Synergy 2024 and Yugam 2024 was both challenging and exciting.
At Synergy, our performance focused on the issue of girl child abuse and boy child abuse, while at Yugam, we presented an act centred on girl child abuse. Performing as part of Samarth Natak Mandli, our team secured 2nd position at Yugam, a moment that felt incredibly rewarding after all the effort and teamwork involved.
Later on, Mannthan also gave me the confidence to step into leadership roles. Conducting my first Vichaar Vimarsh on the topic "VVIPs vs People at Mahakumbh" was a defining moment that pushed me to organize, articulate, and engage in meaningful dialogue.
I served as Technical Head at PSYCA, the Psychological Association of the School of Behavioural Sciences, for 6 months in April 2025, an experience that taught me responsibility in a completely new way. From managing the technical aspects of events to supporting workshops and coordinating with the team, I developed skills that went far beyond the classroom.
At the same time, I continued contributing to Scripting Magazine, particularly to the Farewell Edition (Batch 2022), a collaborative effort I was proud to be part of.
Additionally, I participated in the Asian Parliamentary Debate Competition (APD): Intra-University on the topic "One Nation, One Election," representing Mannthan as the Government Whip. This experience sharpened my critical thinking and public speaking skills, while also teaching me how to perform under pressure.
Between all these engagements, one of the most significant milestones of my first year was beginning work on my first research paper under the guidance and supervision of Ms Vanshika Beri ma'am, titled "Effects of Students' Dependency on Tools Driven by Artificial Intelligence on Emotional Well-being and Self-talk." This marked my first real step into academic research, allowing me to explore psychology beyond theoretical understanding.
Reflecting Back
Of course, this journey was not without its challenges. Balancing academics, extracurricular responsibilities, and personal growth often felt overwhelming. However, these very challenges helped me become more disciplined, resilient, and self-aware.
Looking back now, my first year at SGT University has been a time of embracing opportunities and continuous evolution. It has not only shaped my academic journey but also helped me discover my strengths and aspirations.
The Next Chapter: Second Year
As I stepped into my second year after securing an 8.55 CGPA, things began to feel different. I was no longer just exploring. I was beginning to understand myself.
One of the most special milestones of this year was bringing my first book, an anthology, In the Middle of Knowing, to life in September 2025. Seeing it come together and being appreciated by my professors and friends was an incredibly fulfilling experience. It felt like a part of me had taken shape into something tangible.
I later joined Dastaan, the Poetry and Storytelling Club, as the Creative Head, and further took on the role of Secretary.
This year also marked a quiet but important shift in my personal life. I did not make many friends in my first year, and I often chose to stay within my own space. But slowly, that began to change. I started forming a few meaningful connections with people on campus and, most importantly, building stronger bonds with my professors. These relationships made my experience feel more grounded and real.
Another highlight of my second year was participating in Mannthan International Model United Nations 2026 . I contributed in a dual capacity – representing the Palestinian Authority in the UNGA, engaging in discussions on the topic "Combating the Proliferation of Automated AI-powered Weapon Systems," and serving in the Secretariat as the Rapporteur Head, leading a team of over 5-7 members . It was my first MUN experience, and one I will always remember.
Alongside this, I continued working on research papers. I also had the opportunity to serve as an SEO Content Writing Intern in the Digital Marketing Department under the supervision of Mr. Nagendra Yadav at SGT University. This experience gave me practical experience and helped me understand how my skills could be applied in real-world settings.
Looking Forward
As I come to the end of my second year and look forward to my third, I can see the difference in myself. I am more confident, more certain, and more open to experiences than I was before.
So far, my journey has not been perfect or linear. It has been a mix of figuring things out, feeling unsure, taking chances, and slowly finding my way. But in that process, I have grown into someone more aware, more expressive, and more willing to step forward. And that is what truly defines my journey at SGT University. Not just the achievements or roles, but the person I am becoming along the way.
Ms. Vrinda Raheja
BSc. (Hons. with Research) Clinical Psychology | Minor: BSc. (Hons.) Forensic
Science
Department of Psychology
