Interviews
SummerDiaries: ‘I discovered both the therapeutic and scientific sides of Psychology’
Apeejay’s IB School DP-1 student discusses how the internship taught her the importance of empathy and professionalism
For IB students, internships offer valuable exposure beyond the classroom. They help students explore potential career paths, apply academic skills in real-world settings and develop the confidence, independence and practical understanding needed for future choices. Meet one such student in DP-1, Smera Sachdeva, at Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park.
In an interview, she talks about how the IB curriculum prepared her for her internship with the Mental Health Department at Fortis La Femme, among other things.
What inspired you to intern with the Mental Health Department at Fortis La Femme?
Psychology is one of my greatest areas of interest. I saw this internship as an opportunity to deepen my understanding of the field, gain first-hand experience and strengthen my CV.
What were your main responsibilities during the internship?
We were often asked to review case studies and identify specific mental health disorders among a group of patients. We also explored the different therapies that could be used to treat these conditions.
Which aspects of mental health did you learn about during your time at the hospital?
I learnt about a fascinating therapeutic technique called Dreamwork, in which psychologists analyse dreams to identify and process unresolved emotions and inner conflicts.
Was there a particular session, activity or experience that left a lasting impression on you?
On the final day, we participated in a meditation activity during a live session with renowned Indian sitarist and composer Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, who played Chanakya. The session left a lasting impression on me as it helped me understand how meditation encourages mindfulness and can improve everyday life.
What challenges did you face during the internship, and how did you handle them?
I sometimes found it difficult to recall how certain therapies could be applied to different contexts and mental health disorders. To overcome this, I conducted independent research to understand which therapies were most effective in particular situations.
How did the IB curriculum prepare you for this experience?
The IB curriculum taught me to be an inquirer and remain curious about a subject both during and after an experience. It also helped me recognise opportunities to strengthen my social skills by interacting with other students throughout the internship.
Did the internship change your understanding of mental health?
Yes. I understood that psychologists and other mental health professionals must remain ethical, empathetic and professional while working with patients.
How has this experience influenced your academic interests or future career plans?
The experience strengthened my interest in understanding how different mental health disorders affect behaviour and cognition. It also encouraged me to explore both the therapeutic and scientific aspects of Psychology with an open mind.
