From hairdresser to psychologist

 Adam Bromage - Recipient of 2015 Alumni Awards
I love the culture at VU. It’s a student-focused university with high standards, which pushed me to work hard.

Adam Bromage
Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Psychology)

Years of hairdressing experience helped Adam Bromage prepare for a career in human behaviour. Adam completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours)(Psychology) and is a PhD candidate.

“I was a hairdresser for almost 10 years and had no academic experience beyond Year 10. When I thought of retraining as a psychologist, many universities told me I was aiming too high. I sought opinions of those in industry and heard Victoria University was well known for its hands-on approach and producing great clinical psychologists.

VU was the only university that considered my workplace experience and not just my academic record.

I had to start from the beginning and learn quickly. VU’s PASS program (Peer-Assisted-Study Sessions) helped me understand the content and feel connected. At the end of first semester I got three high distinctions and one distinction. I later became a PASS mentor myself, and received a national award.

I love the culture at VU. It’s a student-focused university with high standards, which pushed me to work hard. My next goal is to complete a Masters in Clinical Neuropsychology and undertake a PhD."

Awards

2014 Dean’s Scholar Award – College of Arts

2012 – Outstanding New Peer Leader – National Centre for PASS

2012 – Most Outstanding First-Year Student – Faculty of Arts

2011 – Executive Dean's High Achievement Scholarship

Course studied

Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Psychology), 2013

Find out more about our psychology courses.