Fostering a happier world: Psychology honours graduand Kalum Kumar awarded Governor General’s Silver Medal

Psychology honours graduand Kalum Kumar has been awarded the Governor General’s Silver Medal for his outstanding academic record, obtaining a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.30 on a 4.33 point scale.

“I chose to major in psychology because I saw it as an avenue for good,” says Kumar. “By understanding how we think, feel, and act, I could apply that knowledge to help others. I have learned so much through my time here, but I am very excited by the fact that I am only scratching the surface.”

After beginning his studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU), Kumar quickly became involved with research at the Department of Psychology, including at Lara Aknin’s Helping and Happiness Lab.

“There, I spent a lot of time contributing to various research projects related to wellbeing and happiness.” Kumar continues, “I also engaged with the community by packing food hampers for disadvantaged children, and later was selected as a speaker for the annual Psychology Honours info session.”

The highlight of Kumar's time at SFU has been his honours project, “Giving & receiving advice: Investigating overlooked pathways to happiness,” conducted under the guidance of Aknin. His honours project explored whether giving and receiving peer-based support in the form of advice could enhance the well-being of students at SFU.

“I was privileged to present my project at the annual meeting of the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, the central conference in the field. The honours program also introduced me to some incredible people that I am lucky to call my friends.”

Kumar is one of two Governor General’s Silver Medalists at Simon Fraser University’s Spring 2024 convocation. This medal is awarded to two undergraduate students who achieve the highest scholastic standing upon graduation from a bachelor’s degree program.

After graduation, Kumar intends to leverage his passion for research by attending graduate school in social psychology, where he will continue to explore how we can foster a happier world.