Deciding between study journeys? Toolsika combined them

When Toolsika decided to move from Mauritius, she was keen to find a university that would help her adjust to life in Australia. At VU, she found a course that accommodates her two passions – justice and psychology – and a uni that feels like a home away from home.

“I am from the beautiful African island of Mauritius. Since I was a child, I dreamt of studying in Australia. I was inspired by my father, sister and brother, who have careers in law and justice. However, I was also very interested in psychology. So when it came to choosing a course, I felt divided.

I found the Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Psychological Studies at VU, which accommodates my two passions. This course gives me the option to either pursue a career that combines psychology and justice or follow the field that interests me the most.

I’m enjoying university; I feel like I belong. VU is very multicultural, just like my country. I get to meet people from different backgrounds and discover new cultures. It feels like I never left home.

University study is less stressful with the VU Block Model because you can focus on one subject at a time. The class sizes are small, so we can easily interact with teachers and receive personalised feedback.

VU focuses on practice as well as theory, which is crucial to me studying human behaviour and psychology; and will best prepare me for my life and career.

I also have plenty of time to get involved in extracurricular activities. I’m the Women’s Officer for the VU Student Union, the Vice President of the VU African Society, a student mentor and the Director of Marketing and Social Media at the International Students Association, a member of the VU Vollies, and a Student Ambassador.

I was an introverted person before I joined VU. My experience at VU has been irreplaceable: it’s helped me personally, professionally and academically.”