"The interest in studying Psychology has been growing year after year, with the number of applicants exceeding the available places," said Doc. Dr. Ivona Čarapina Zovko, the Head of the Psychology Program at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Mostar, during an interview on Običnog Radio Mostar.
She highlighted that for many years, the student association "Mentalist" has been active within the Psychology program. Through this association, students organize various activities aimed at improving the student experience. "They organize workshops focused on strengthening psychological resilience, reducing anxiety during exam periods, promoting blood donation campaigns, and marking the day for people with Down syndrome."
She emphasized that both students and faculty members of the Psychology program regularly participate in mobility programs, making them among the most active participants at the Faculty of Philosophy. Every semester, several students spend part of their studies at foreign institutions, contributing to their professional and personal development.
Čarapina Zovko also announced the traditional "Psychology Week," which is organized every year to promote the profession and inform prospective students. "The focus is especially on high school students and graduates, to present the program, student activities, and the enrollment conditions."
She mentioned that the employment opportunities after graduation are exceptional, as there is an increasing demand for professionals in the field of mental health, as well as in organizational sectors – in companies, banks, the IT industry, and other business environments. She also cited examples of former students who are now alumni, leaving a positive impact on employers and future students through their work.
"The only thing that saddens me is the employment of psychologists in schools, where the Herzegovina-Neretva County is significantly lagging behind in this regard. Psychologists employed in schools are often hired as teachers of psychology, rather than as professional associates. In other counties, such as the West Herzegovina County, there are positive examples with many employed psychologists working within the professional team. This should be a call to highlight why psychologists are crucial in schools," said Doc. Ivona Čarapina Zovko.
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