Conducting a research project into the development of mental health and wellbeing services at Queen’s University in the UK was an “eye-opening experience” for McCusker Centre for Citizenship global exchange student Riley Dolman.
“For me, having the freedom to conduct research as I felt necessary really opened my eyes to how research can be conducted,” the University of WA Master of Clinical Physiology student said.
But it was not the first travel the 22-year-old has done through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship in recent years.
In 2018, Mr Dolman completed a three-month internship at not-for-profit organisation Fair Game in the Pilbara.
The following year, he was one of three chosen to represent the McCusker Centre for Citizenship at the Matariki Network of Universities’ third-annual Global Citizenship Forum at Durham University in the UK.
“I chose the McCusker Centre for Citizenship for exchange as the previous experiences that I have had with the Centre and the citizenship work that they engage with has always been fulfilling and has assisted in some many aspects of my personal development,” he said.
Mr Dolman said his research project looked at the “very unique situation” of students at the Bader International Study Centre within Queen’s University.
“My main interests were how they used physical activity in their programs and how they developed their programs cross-culturally,” he said.
“I would like to see the results and feedback that I provided on the processes to include a new student facilitated program that aligns with the ‘Happiness for Action Initiative’ with a focus on emotion regulation.”
Mr Dolman said the exchange experience had opened his eyes to the possibility of continuing his studies.
“I am now having some considerations about how I will be able to develop myself further by studying within a different institution,” he said.
“After meeting so many new people there know new opportunities to travel and see the world and who knows what this could lead to.
“I really value Global Citizenship and hope that I am able to continue this into my professional life.”