After completing his Master of Counselling at Excelsia University College, Steven Melaki reflects on a transformative academic experience that helped shape his professional identity and personal growth.
Steven was drawn to Excelsia for its unique integration of counselling practice, ethical values and Christian principles. ‘The program’s emphasis on self-awareness, professional development and ethical practice aligned with my career goals,’ Steven shares. ‘What really stood out was the supportive faculty and small class sizes, which created a space where I could deeply engage with the material and receive personalised guidance.’
Steven credits Excelsia for broadening his understanding of counselling and reinforcing the importance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and lifelong learning. Excelsia offered Steven a driven approach that allowed him to support clients from diverse backgrounds with compassion and professionalism.
Throughout his studies, Steven developed a set of skills through practical learning opportunities. Group discussions, role-plays and supervised practicums helped him build rapport with clients and navigate complex ethical situations. ‘The reflective practice component was especially valuable – it helped me build emotional intelligence and self-awareness, both of which are crucial in this field.’
The hands-on learning environment at Excelsia allowed Steven to connect theory with practice. ‘The faculty were incredibly knowledgeable and shared practical insights from their professional backgrounds,’ he notes. ‘They helped me bridge the gap between academic concepts and real-world counselling.’ He also appreciated the library resources and support staff, which played a key role in helping him research effectively throughout the course.
Since graduating, Steven has been actively applying for counselling roles while volunteering in a faith-based mentoring program for young adults. He’s also expanding his knowledge by pursuing further studies in business and exploring short courses in counselling psychology.
To prospective students considering counselling, Steven offers thoughtful encouragement: ‘Counselling is a rewarding profession that requires self-reflection and a genuine desire to help others. If you’re open to growth, Excelsia provides a nurturing environment where you’ll gain the skills and confidence to truly make a difference.’
Ready to take the next step in your counselling journey? Explore Excelsia’s Master of Counselling program and discover how you can make a meaningful impact – personally and professionally. Visit our website here to learn more and take advantage of the where eligible students pay no more than $4,627 in annual tuition fees. Apply today
