Haran R P

Gratitude Series | Post 5 – To the CAPS Team

My journey with CAPS - Centre for Academic and Professional Support began during my post graduation, when the centre was being restructured through the efforts of Ms Lynette Nazareth and Ms Divya Sharma. Even then, I could sense that something meaningful was being built, though I did not fully understand its scale or impact.

As a student, my involvement was limited to a specific wing that functioned almost like an independent unit. While I had good connections across teams, I did not have a complete understanding of the larger ecosystem. I also observed how CAPS functioned with clarity in some spaces, while in others, there was a genuine effort to establish its identity.

When I returned to CAPS a few years later as a trainer, I was struck by how much it had evolved. It still took me time to understand its depth and potential.

CAPS, by nature, is dynamic. It evolves based on student needs, which is its strength. At the same time, this fluidity can make it challenging for newcomers to grasp its structure. I realised that understanding CAPS required asking the right questions, and I am grateful that people were always open to sharing their experiences.

Those conversations became my learning ground.

Mr Vijith Varghese shared insights on managing teams despite demanding student schedules and adapting structures based on student needs. Mr RAM KUMAR introduced me to technical and psychometric advancements, and I appreciated how openly the student team shared their processes. Ms Pancinovia Neelu’s work on the Writing Centre reflected how initiatives within CAPS can grow into meaningful platforms.

Through these interactions, I began to see CAPS as a collaborative ecosystem. A space where ideas are tested, refined, and reimagined, and where students are contributors, not just participants.

What stood out most was the accessibility and support from the leadership. Ms Lynette Nazareth and Ms Divya Sharma were always approachable, whether it was for a doubt, discussion, or new idea. This openness built trust, encouraged experimentation, and gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully.

CAPS is more than a support centre. It is a peer-led platform that simulates real-world work environments while allowing students to apply their knowledge during their academic journey. That balance is something I deeply admire.

On a lighter note, it is inspiring to see how Ms Lynette Nazareth and Ms Divya Sharma bring together rich experience with a mindset that is open to learning and adapting. That balance is rare and something I deeply respect.

Grateful to have been part of this journey and to have learnt from such a dynamic space.

Promoting Well-being in Educational Institutions

It was an enriching experience to represent in the Poster Presentation and Live Poster-Making Competition conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Bangalore (NIMHANS) on instilling well-being in educational institutions. I had the privilege of representing St. Joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College and St.Joseph's Indian High School, with students from both institutions showcasing their enthusiasm and knowledge alongside participants from other schools.

What made this competition truly special was witnessing students go beyond textbook learning to explore the practical applications of psychology in real-life school settings. In India, applied psychology at the school level is not always emphasized, making experiences like these crucial for real-time learning and exposure.

A highlight of the event was Prof. Dr. Seema Mehrotra, the coordinator of this youth engagement initiative, who took the time to break down complex psychological concepts for students struggling with technical terms. Her approachable and student-centred approach ensured that the competition remained a learning experience rather than just a contest. I truly appreciated her efforts, which is why I made sure to capture a moment with her!

During our extended lunch break, the students explored the Nimhans Bengaluru Heritage Museum and Brain Museum, where they engaged with interactive exhibits and real human brain specimens. This hands-on experience deepened their understanding of mental health care and neuroscience, making learning both exciting and impactful!

With great preparation and teamwork, I’m proud to share that:
The St.joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College students secured First Place in the Live Poster Making Competition and St. Joseph's Indian High School students received a Special Mention for their efforts!

A huge thanks to the Positive Psychology Unit under the Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, for this wonderful initiative. Grateful for the support from Microsoft India & Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR), New Delhi, and appreciation to the organizing team and Jomy T Jose for their coordination till the last moment.

To add to the joy, I also got to reconnect with my post-grad classmate and friend, Amoolya C A, who was representing another institution. Catching up after a long time and seeing how far we have come professionally was a cherry on top!

This experience reaffirmed the importance of engaging students in hands-on psychology activities, fostering deeper understanding, and encouraging collaborative learning across institutions. Looking forward to more such impactful engagements!