At Curtin University Dubai, we are often told that our education extends far beyond the four walls of a lecture hall. As a Psychology student, I have spent countless hours studying the complexities of the human mind, but I always felt a calling to see those theories in action – to move from the ‘why’ of human behaviour to the ‘how’ of human connection.
When the opportunity arose to volunteer with 4get-me-not, a non-profit organisation dedicated to Alzheimer’s awareness, I knew it was the perfect bridge between my academic passions and my desire to give back. What followed was a journey of empathy, patience, and profound personal growth that transformed my understanding of what it means to truly support a community.
Volunteering with 4get-me-not has been one of the most defining experiences of my academic journey. As a Psychology student at Curtin University Dubai, I have always been driven to understand the nuances of the human experience – our emotions, our struggles, and our inherent resilience. However, through this partnership, I was able to step outside the theoretical frameworks of my textbooks and experience the “human side” of psychology in its most authentic form.
My inspiration to get involved stemmed from a deeply personal place. Alzheimer’s is a condition that strips away more than just memory; it impacts identity and dignity – realities I witnessed firsthand within my own family. This personal connection made me acutely sensitive to the emotional weight of a diagnosis. Through 4get-me-not, I had the privilege of engaging with senior citizens whose stories and wisdom left a lasting mark on me. Simply being present and listening taught me that patience and empathy are often the most powerful tools we possess.
Before beginning my direct engagement, I attended a specialised workshop that proved invaluable. It provided the mindfulness and preparation needed to approach these interactions with the respect they deserve. One of the highlights of my time was the ‘Lego Lunch Date.’ Watching how a simple, tactile activity could spark such immense joy and connection was heartwarming. Similarly, during a sewing activity, the roles of ‘teacher’ and ‘student’ were beautifully reversed; Katherine, one of the seniors, patiently taught me how to sew my first button. It was a poignant reminder that learning is always a two-way street.
Beyond the individual interactions, my role involved supporting community engagement initiatives. Whether assisting in event organisation or contributing new ideas, I developed a deep appreciation for teamwork and professional accountability. These are skills – consistency, responsibility, and adaptability – that are as essential in a professional career as they are in a clinical setting.
Perhaps the greatest lesson I’ve taken away is that impact doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, the most meaningful change comes from showing up, listening, and participating wholeheartedly. Seeing a dedicated team work toward a collective goal strengthened my own communication skills and my confidence in navigating diverse social environments.
On a personal level, this experience has breathed life into the theories I study. In the classroom, we discuss “prosocial behaviour” and “community wellbeing”; at 4get-me-not, I lived them. I learned that empathy isn’t just a concept to be analysed; it’s a practice to be lived. Professionally, balancing these responsibilities alongside my studies required rigorous time management and discipline, reinforcing my commitment to the field of Psychology.
I am incredibly grateful to my professors & lecturers at Curtin Dubai for introducing me to this opportunity. My time with 4get-me-not has reinforced a core belief: true growth happens when we choose to serve the communities around us. I am proud of the small part I played and look forward to continuing my journey of creating a positive, lasting impact.
Written by Nanda Karosh, Bachelor of Psychology, Class of 2027
