Student Case Study #20 Kerry Luff
Psychology (Mental Health) student
When did you first get involved with NTSU, and how did this come about?
Right at the start—during my first-year freshers week. At the Freshers Fair, I discovered ways to become an active student community member. The Student Mental Health Champions group really stood out to me as mental health is something I have a great passion for and is what I study. So I signed up, attended training sessions, and learned more about the role.
What things have you been involved with?
I have been involved in various events as a Student Mental Health Champion throughout the year, including mindfulness walks, Global Week, and Welcome Fairs. I also introduced NTYOUROCK to spread mental health awareness, positivity, and creativity throughout campus.
We have held many sessions on NTU's three main campuses. Students are invited to paint mindful quotes or images on rocks and distribute them around campus in the hope of bringing some colour and motivation to others as they go about their day. The sessions provide a safe place for people to meet new friends, take time out of the stresses of studying, get creative, and bring some colour to campus.
I am also on the Psychology Society committee, which I love with all my heart.
What impact has your involvement had on your overall NTU experience?
It has definitely improved my confidence and given me a sense of achievement. Regularly meeting new people and stepping up to facilitate sessions has enabled me to improve my leadership and communication skills. Also, rather than coming to university just to study, I feel part of something I have contributed to. Being part of such a fantastic community gives me enormous pride.
Has being involved with the SU helped you feel part of a community?
Definitely. The people who run the SU and the students who get involved are all so welcoming and helpful. Being a society committee member has enabled me to build genuine friendships and learn from others. It's made me feel like an individual with a purpose rather than just a student who comes into uni, studies and leaves.
Has it affected your studies in any way?
My engagement with the Student Mental Health Champions has broadened my perspective and knowledge of mental health, positively influencing my studies. I believe that actively participating in something you are interested in significantly benefits you.
Has it helped you to prepare for life after university?
Definitely. Some of the skills I gained will benefit me for life. I know I want to make a difference in the community throughout my future career. By observing how others have led teams and dealt with various situations, I better understand how to deal with things myself.
What is the best thing you have got out of being involved with NTSU?
Some of the best friends I could ever ask for. Stepping out of my comfort zone and helping to run a society means I have spent a lot of time with new people. And from that, I have made the best memories with friends I know will last a lifetime.
What is your favourite memory of being involved with NTSU?
One of the most heart-warming moments was actually on a night out. In my first year, I facilitated a group through a 12-week course to reflect and improve mental health. Whilst everything was done online due to COVID-19, we built a lovely sense of community within our group.
In my second year, a boy from the group came up to me in Ocean, hugged me, and told me how much I had helped him and impacted his mental health and outlook on university. I had never had the chance to meet him in person due to the restrictions, and it was such a proud moment to see how happy and grateful he was—I could have cried.
What would you say to students who have yet to get involved with NTSU?
Just do it. What have you got to lose? There is no better way to maximise your uni experience than pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and getting involved in as much as you can. Whether it's joining a society, sports group, volunteering for open days, or getting a job within the uni, these are all incredible opportunities to learn more about others and—most importantly—yourself. Your university experience will fly by, so make it one to remember. NTSU know how to help you with this better than anyone.
