In this talk, VO1SS sat down with Sachi to share her insights on her academic career and business psychology in general. Could you tell us your background and what got you into studying psychology? Why did you choose to study in the UK? I have always wanted to study medicine to become a doctor in a developing country — to provide healthcare for those in need. However, facing culture shock, skin disease, and food poisoning for two weeks straight, my future aspirations in India were crushed.
Although I did meet one of my closest friends on the trip to this day, I was still miserable, depressed, and homesick — and this is when I realised the importance of mental health, which motivated me to study Psychology instead. I wanted to study in the UK because not only can you get an undergraduate degree in just three years, you also only need to take modules that are specific to your course.
I knew I wanted to study Psychology and had no intention to change my mind, so it definitely suited me. I completed a BSc in Psychology at the University of Exeter — where I met great friends and professors who have been giving me unconditional support.
In general, Business Psychology is the study of applying psychological theories into business practices such as in human resources HR , marketing, and consulting. At first, I wanted to pursue Clinical Psychology just like every typical Psychology student. But while studying Psychology, I learned that mental health can be addressed in so many different ways e. Despite this being a persistent social problem, there is still a stigma towards mental health in Japan, and even in other Asian countries — so much so that many people still avoid reaching out for professional help.
Although attitudes towards mental health in Japan are slowly becoming positive, I believe that Business Psychology can alternatively provide a speedy approach to keep people happy, motivated, and productive at work.
