Meet Rida Zahra, a master’s student at the University of Turku and an UTU Ambassador for 2025-2026!
"Hi, my name is Rida. I am a master’s student in Public Mental Health with a minor in Human Neuroscience. I completed my bachelor’s degree in psychology and immediately continued on to my master’s at UTU. For quite some time, I have been interested in understanding the human subconscious mind and how we sometimes display certain behaviours without even being aware of them. This curiosity first led me to pursue psychology at the bachelor’s level and later to specialise in Public Mental Health with Human Neuroscience as my minor.
Alongside my studies, I am passionate about advocacy, particularly in relation to mental health. I like to raise awareness and speak up on issues such as the integration of mental health services into primary care and the need to make mental health support more accessible. For example, I am interested in discussing how helplines may have toll charges, offer services only in one language, or have long waiting queues. When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, support should be available immediately, and this is something I wish to continue advocating for.
Looking ahead, I would also love to be involved in policymaking, especially in areas concerning mental health.
Outside of my academic and advocacy work, I have many hobbies. I am a painter, a writer, a runner, and an avid reader. I enjoy exploring random places, often walking for hours without using Google Maps just for the joy of discovering something new. I sometimes cycle to the beach at three in the morning to swim, which I truly enjoy (as long as one does not drown). I love taking photos of places I find beautiful. Although I could not bring my cat with me to Finland, I video call him every day. I also skateboard, though I would not say I am particularly skilled at it, but I believe hobbies are meant to be enjoyed, not perfected. I like going to cafés to read books, and I have a deep fondness for plants; my apartment is full of them.
In addition to my hobbies and studies, I spend a great deal of time volunteering whenever I can, especially on weekends. I am also a campus sports tutor, a student tutor, an EC2U ambassador, and a member of the Education Planning Committee for Public Mental Health.
Lastly, if you ever need someone to talk to or simply want to share your thoughts, feel free to reach out."
Rida's study experience:
I got my bachelor’s in Psychology in Pakistan and graduated in 2024. Started my master’s right after.
Honestly, there are many reasons why I chose the University of Turku (UTU). One random and somewhat silly reason was their website—the layout just made sense. After watching a few videos about the university, I was really impressed. Of course, a more professional reason was the quality of research at UTU. When I was applying, I read several research papers by UTU professors, and they were all quite well-written.
What I love most about studying at UTU is the exam system. You can take an exam up to three times, which is a total game changer. Even if you don’t do well the first time, you still have two more chances to improve. This really takes the pressure off and helps ease exam anxiety.
Career-wise, I’m still figuring things out. Right now, I’m planning to book a career counseling session through the university career guidance services to help with certain things.
In my free time, you’ll probably find me video calling my cat. I couldn’t bring him with me to Finland, so I make it a point to call him every day. Besides that, I love painting. I’m not the best at it, but it’s fun. I also like biking around Turku and going for runs with music blasting in my ears. I like discovering new spots in the city too, whether it’s a coffee shop or an old abandoned building.