On Wednesday, February 19, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Jacquelyn Berry, Associate Professor of Cognitive Psychology at AUC, Fulbright Scholar, and cofounder of GameChanger for Research and Solutions, alongside Ms. Salma Magdi, an accomplished psychology researcher at AUC. Their interactive session, “Unlocking Potential: Mental Strategies and Academic Resilience,” provided students with valuable insights into mental well-being, resilience, and cognitive strategies for academic success.
Mental Health as the Train of Life
Dr. Berry introduced a compelling metaphor, comparing mental health to a train fueled by energy—just as a locomotive needs fuel to run, our minds require well-managed mental energy to sustain academic performance. To bring this concept to life, she led an engaging activity where students physically built a train, reinforcing the importance of preserving and managing their mental resources.
Cognitive Strategies: Atomic Habits, Decision-Making & Problem-Solving
The session explored how cognitive processes shape students’ ability to handle academic challenges. Key discussions included:
- Long-term vs. Short-term Memory – Understanding how memory functions to optimize learning.
- Decision Fatigue & Cognitive Overload – Strategies to manage mental resources effectively.
- Atomic Habits Formation – Techniques to develop positive academic habits while eliminating ineffective ones.
- The Frontal Cortex & Academic Resilience – Insights into how the brain’s frontal cortex regulates decision-making, problem-solving, and self-regulation.
Dr. Berry and Ms. Magdi’s engaging approach made complex psychological concepts relatable, equipping students with practical tools to enhance their academic resilience.
Thank you to our esteemed speakers and everyone who joined us for this enlightening discussion!
