Asta Rowbottom

This position within a reputable retail store such as Kmart has provided me with the opportunity to develop many skills. Within my role, I participate in continuous improvement by generating suggestions and engaging in problem-solving activities to support teamwork. I actively listen to customers; handle concerns quickly and effectively escalate major issues to my managers. Hence, my proficiency in resolving conflicts and communicating effectively is highly developed. In my position, I often need to address customer complaints, disputes, and dissatisfaction. From my extended time spent in this role, I have learned to navigate these interactions, sharpening my communication and conflict resolution skills.

As a mentor, I had the extraordinary opportunity to establish a connection and facilitate a young person's growth by offering guidance, support, and inspiration. Throughout the school year, I provided personalised support to my mentee. This encompasses teaching essential skills such as ways to manage stress, navigate friendships, set goals, and learning how to ask for help. Although it is great to teach these skills, some days, my role was simply just to offer a listening ear to my mentee. From this, I have harnessed skills such as listening attentively and actively, as well as learning to understanding my mentees thoughts and feelings. Additionally, I have further developed a sense of empathy. Through this experience, I have become more self-aware, recognising my own biases, emotions, and triggers. These skills serve as a strong foundation in my future aspirations within the field of psychology. I have harnessed skills relevant to my future aspirations of being a psychologist.

In this position I provided one-on-one tutorial services to students to assist with understanding aspects of psychology. This was an enriching experience whereby I helped students prepare for tests and exams by providing feedback, guidance, and motivation. I fostered a supportive learning environment where students felt comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns about course material. This was my first experience tutoring and one which truly helped me establish valuable communication skills and problem-solving skills.