#GraduateStories: A Dash of Psychology, a Pinch of Mandarin

Looking back at my time at Ashoka, I see that my interests evolved throughout my undergraduate degree; thanks to the dynamic environment the University provided me with. The primary reason I joined Ashoka was to pursue Environmental Studies. However, during my second semester, I tried out a Psychology introduction course, and I found it very interesting to learn about human behaviour, especially the cognitive part. As my understanding of psychology grew, I came to see how well it suited my interests and community as an international student from Myanmar. I came from a very conservative society where people do not believe in psychology, and I used to be one of them. However, when I started attending Psychology courses at Ashoka, I found it very useful, and my perspective shifted. 

Ashoka’s interdisciplinary approach influenced me greatly. I was able to think from multiple perspectives. Apart from Psychology courses, Mandarin courses left a lasting impact on me. Because I pursued a course in Mandarin, I was able to find an internship in Taiwan, which is related to cognitive psychology. I consider this one of the best outcomes of joining Ashoka University. It is very fascinating that Ashoka offers language courses, and I had no idea that I would be able to learn a whole new language here. Now, after completing my ASP, I realise that I have reached an intermediate level in Psychology and in Mandarin Chinese, which means I can communicate with Mandarin speakers. 

One of the moments I want to relive in Ashoka is cooking together with my friends. I was not able to cook before I came to Ashoka. The only thing I brought to the table was confidence. I was very confident of cooking, even though the dishes might not turn out very delicious. We used to cook very often, which makes up for a huge part of my life at Ashoka. This really boosted my confidence in my cooking skills and eventually prompted me to write a cookbook in Mandarin. 

The advice I would like to give new Ashokans on building meaningful connections is to be confident and not hesitate to ask questions and for help if needed. Seek out diverse perspectives, in which you will always gain knowledge and insights into other people’s perspectives and cultures. Utilise the support systems available on campus, including the Office of Learning Support, among other centres and offices. Lastly, live fully while you can and enjoy every single moment, both the ups and downs, at Ashoka University. 

– Written by Naw Blut Eh Khue, ASP 2025 Batch