Take Up Psychology Or Counselling Courses As A Career Option: Graduate

Peni Tove is encouraging students to take up Psychology or counselling courses as a career option.

Since graduating, he has been offering general psychological awareness to military personnel for the past six years.

Mr Tove hails from Nahigatoka Village, Nadroga with maternal links to Naikeleyaga Village in Kabara, Lau.

He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology from the University of the South Pacific (USP).

Childhood

“I spent my early childhood in Sigatoka before moving to Vunisea on Kadavu where we spent our primary school days. I also attended Vunisea Secondary school before moving to Suva to attend Ratu Kadavulevu School,” Mr Tove said.

“Growing up in Vunisea was an enriching experience because it provided a much-needed anchor during that time.

“We made great friends and lifelong memories that made growing up much more enjoyable

“We struggled a lot growing up. My parents went their separate ways and we were faced with problems that arose from being raised by a single parent.

“My mother ensured that we had a proper education despite the problems that we continually had.

“My parents’ separation created a lot of friction in our childhood and this led to a lot of struggles for my mother.

“She went fishing regularly after teaching and on the weekends to make sure we had food on the table. Sharing was a value that she insisted we practised with everyone.”

Counsellor’s Journey

“Even with limited income and moving to a new environment my mother never closed our doors to children who needed a place to sleep or a hot meal to share,” he said.

“I had to change majors multiple times before I actually found what I was looking for. I took up Psychology when I went back to university to complete my degree. I was married and had my first child by then.

“A lot of sacrifices were made with finances because we were starting a family and also paying for needed expenses.”

Challenges

Mr Tove said it was tough when he started offering general psychological awareness for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel.

“It was challenging as only pastoral counselling was available. I had to slowly incorporate my programme into the military process and these were the most challenging,” he said.

“It is important to know yourself first. Know what it is that you want and then you can help others in your career path.

“To offer counselling services for free to people is a great call. I urge students to take up Psychology or counselling courses as a career option.”

Motivation

“My mother has been my motivation. Her ability to prioritise our education despite our problems. Her candid approach has also been my main motivation to be upfront with situations and to be honest come what may,” Mr Tove said.

“She passed away before I decided on my career path in Psychology. She was gone but she was the reason behind my decisions.”

Feedback:  wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj