On November 1, 2024, our university held two psychological training sessions for first-year students: group 113 GM and group 216 GM. These events were aimed at introducing the university’s psychological services, supporting students during the adaptation period, fostering group cohesion, and developing communication skills and emotional self-regulation.

Training for Group 113 GM: “How to Handle Emotions”

This training focused on developing emotional self-regulation in stressful situations. The goal was to teach participants how to manage their emotions and prevent escalation. The training included art therapy techniques, mindfulness breathing, and cognitive-behavioral practices.

The session began with a role-playing game, “Let’s Get Acquainted,” which helped participants get to know each other better and promoted group cohesion. Then, they completed a practical exercise, “The Effect of Stress on the Body,” which helped them track and analyze their physical and emotional-psychological sensations. All stages of the event were actively attended, and participants gave numerous positive reviews.

Training for Group 216 GM: “Do You Know Yourself?”

The goal of this session was to enhance self-knowledge and self-awareness. The training set out tasks, including getting to know oneself, creating a positive emotional atmosphere, fostering motivation for joint activities, and encouraging self-awareness.

The session started with an introduction to the university’s psychological services and the concept of emotional intelligence. Participants completed the practical exercise “The Effect of Stress on the Body” and the self-exploration exercise “10 Positive and 10 Negative Traits Within Me,” designed to enhance self-knowledge and awareness of their strengths and weaknesses. During the reflection stage, students shared their impressions and expressed a desire to hold similar events more frequently.

Both training sessions were successful and received positive feedback from the participants, confirming the importance and need for such events at our university.

Senior Methodologist – Psychologist, Center for Social and Educational Work Sarbassova K.K.