Princess Catherine, also known as Kate, has expressed her desire to return to student life after witnessing the efforts made by two universities in supporting mental health. During her visit to Nottingham Trent University (NTU) on World Mental Health Day, Kate was shown the various ways in which the university supports the well-being of its students and staff.
One of the activities that Kate actively participated in was a session aimed at boosting students’ confidence. She emphasized the importance of mental health and engaged in discussions with representatives from NTU and the University of Nottingham about various initiatives. These initiatives include peer-to-peer mentoring, NTU’s mental health dashboard, and Step in Circle sessions. The princess shared her own university experience, describing it as a time of great opportunities and personal growth through trying out new hobbies and challenges.
One of the students from Nigeria praised the Step In Circle session, sharing how it helped him overcome shyness and build confidence. This session encourages students to share their experiences and build confidence in a supportive environment. NTU’s mental health dashboard was also highlighted as a valuable tool. It utilizes data to identify students who may be struggling and provides insights into their own engagement. The university not only provides this information to students but also proactively reaches out to those who may require additional support.
Kate’s visit to NTU and her interest in the university’s mental health initiatives shed light on the importance of supporting students’ well-being. Her desire to be a student again reflects her belief in the transformative power of education and the positive impact it can have on mental health. During her discussions with university representatives, she also emphasized the importance of encouraging her own children to explore new things and embrace personal growth.
Overall, Kate’s visit to NTU highlighted the efforts made by universities to prioritize mental health and support their students. By actively participating in sessions and engaging in discussions, she demonstrated her commitment to raising awareness and advocating for mental health support. Her desire to be a student again serves as a reminder that education and personal growth are lifelong journeys, and mental health should always be a priority in these endeavors.