Graduating with a Master of Clinical Psychology from IMU University was more than an academic achievement for Haziqah binti Packirgani. From the Foundation in Science programme to postgraduate studies, she reflects on the supportive learning environment, dedicated educators, meaningful community outreach, and lifelong friendships that shaped her into an aspiring clinical psychologist.

My university is a place that is close to my heart, and perhaps that is why I keep coming back to it over and over again. Since my days in the Foundation in Science programme until my Master of Clinical Psychology, IMU University became home to me.

I had always appreciated the unique healthcare-centric approach this university has, an area I’m particularly passionate about, but what kept me coming back is the quality of the education – from the studious environment fostered by the students to the curriculum curated by the staff.

My educators, my pillars of guidance and strength, are a team of dedicated and passionate professionals in the field of psychology. Their vast knowledge and experience both humble me and inspire me to grow into a better practitioner and person.

I am also deeply grateful for the exposure this programme has provided, from hospital field trips and expert guest lectures to opportunities to work with diverse communities such as asylum seekers, foster homes, and low‑income groups.

Completing a Master’s in Clinical Psychology is no walk in the park. One needs to learn how to delicately balance:

• Assignments
• Exams
• Practicum hours
• Research

You feel the need to show up not only as a good student but also as a responsible therapist and a reliable human being.

While you learn the art of nurturing someone’s well-being, it is easy to lose sight of taking care of your own.

Despite these challenges, I could not have done it without the support of my compassionate educators and classmates.

From sharing resources to confiding in one another, my classmates and I developed a strong bond that transcended beyond the classroom.

Now that my chapter as a student has ended (for now at least), I ventured into community development while awaiting my clinical psychology license. I currently serve as a clinical coordinator in a social enterprise, where I design and manage mental health programmes for marginalised communities. I am also returning to IMU as a guest lecturer! Funny how life became a full circle.

If you ask me about my future aspirations, I cannot give you a simple answer, for there are many things I would love to explore, such as research and academia, clinical work, and advocacy. To put it simply, I’m still figuring out my journey, but as for now, I want to focus on my current endeavours and make the most of them.

A good friend once told me, “Life is a serious joke.”, something I truly resonate with. Undergoing the course is challenging, and some hardships may lead you to see through tunnel vision as if the world will end if things do not go as planned. But if you take a step back, you would realise that the world did not end after all. If you fall, you can always get up and try again. It is also important to identify your support system and empower one another. You need each other more than you think.

And lastly, in the process of building your identity as a psychologist, remember not to lose yourself. It may be easy to be overwhelmed by the responsibilities and requirements. The greatest thing you can do when the world feels harsh is to remain kind, both to others and yourself.

Written by Haziqah binti Packirgani, who graduated with Distinction on 4 July 2026.