Leading the Way: An Exclusive Interview with the President of NAPS UI

By Faniyan Caleb

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Good day, ma'am. I'm Caleb from Psychlens Press, and I'd like to have a quick Q&A session with you to help the psychology students of NAPS UI get familiar with their President.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your academic background?

Ms. Grace: My name is Grace Yusuf.

I am a 400L Psychology student and the President of NAPS for the 2022/2023 academic session. My academic background is quite a long journey. I wrote JAMB 6 times, Post UTME 6 times, and the University of Cambridge's Advanced Level in three courses (Economics, Sociology, and Business, respectively).

All these were literally because my mum didn’t want me to study Psychology. Alas, I ended up there, and I'm now a finalist!

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Wow. That's quite a journey, truly. You must love psychology so much. What inspired you to take on the role of the department President?

Ms. Grace: Like I said, when campaigning for the position, it's to change perspectives. There are many facts out there that are not true within the academic sector, especially within the department. And those facts have conditioned many people to think and behave in a particular way.

For example:

1. Getting excellent results

2. Creating a balance between academics and other social activities

3. Self-development and the "student" title

4. Financial prowess of students, and so on. We just need to tie some loose ends.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: What are your main goals and priorities for the department during your tenure as President?

Ms. Grace: To have successfully changed a few perspectives through what can accomplish in creating events, bringing access to opportunities, and a thrilling experience all year.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: What are some challenges that you see facing the department?

Ms. Grace: Majorly the fact that stress is stressing us, and we are letting it dictate how we react to situations regarding academics and all that surrounds it.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: How do you plan to address the challenge you just highlighted?

Ms. Grace: Giving room for activities with individual benefits attached to them.

One of the major highlights of my administration is an event that will be intriguing across all levels. And it can mean many things to many people, depending on the benefits each person is in search of.

In other words, any activity or opportunity presented to us must be able to work in line to considerably satisfy our needs according to Abraham Maslow.

So, even while you work or study, the stress or worry of other needs should not work you out.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: What initiatives or activities do you have in mind to encourage student engagement and involvement in departmental events?

Ms. Grace: Well, when it comes to marketing, both the "product" and presentation must appeal to the audience.

All pre-existing resources in the department will be maximized (people, social media, and influence), however, we'll make a little twist with "how" it is used.

Nothing extensive will be discussed here, but it will be unfolding soon.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: How do you plan to collaborate with faculty members and authorities to enhance the learning experience and academic opportunities for Psychology students?

Ms. Grace: I think a personal relationship comes before any official one, in this case. So, I'll prioritize that.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Are there any plans to establish stronger ties between students and professors in terms of research or academic mentorship?

Ms. Grace: Yes, one of the reasons I need us to see the importance of soft skills.

Even after we give access to opportunities like these, the question is how you're able to maintain that relationship with them.

Most times, everything doesn't end in school. So, yes, we are mapping out the right plans.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Are there any specific strategies you're considering to ensure a smooth transition for freshmen joining the department?

Ms. Grace: Absolutely! It's already taking place. Like every other thing, information comes first (which they need). Then comes the activities that mix the Psychology blood across all levels, academicsinclusive.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Are there any resources or opportunities you recommend freshmen take advantage of during their time here?

Ms. Grace: Yes. Academic resources come first, however, there will be room for self-development opportunities, including learning how to source for scholarships and research opportunities.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen who are just starting their journey in this department?

Ms. Grace: Ask questions, and follow instructions from reliable sources.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: Finally, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind as the department president?

Ms. Grace: Excellence and balance.

PSYCHLENS PRESS: This brings us to the end of this interview. Thank you for your time, Ms. Grace. I wish you all the best in your tenure as the President of the best department in the faculty of The Social Sciences. Enjoy the rest of your day.