Sadie Balkind Scholarship Awardee 2021 - Dena Makarious

Dena Makarious was our 2021 successful awardee for the GWC Sadie Balkind Scholarship. The quality of applications was incredibly high however Dena’s commitment to using her qualifications to help her own and other migrant and minority communities along with her volunteer work, strong referee support and high GPA stood her apart and ensured her position. Dena shares her experience below.

I am incredibly grateful and honoured to have been awarded the Sadie Balkind scholarship. With my clinical training, the pursuit of my master's degree, and involvement in my community, it had been challenging to find the time and resources to fund my studies. However, this award has enabled me to achieve my potential, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and continue to serve my community.

I applied for the scholarship with the goal of dedicating my time and effort towards learning to the best of my ability, applying myself at every opportunity, and being able to fully engage with my clients to provide the best service possible, as I live by the Bible verse "whatever your hands find to do, do it with all of your might." The scholarship has provided me with the financial support to focus on my studies, which has alleviated the financial stress that would have otherwise hindered my progress.

As a result, I have been able to successfully complete my second year of clinical psychology, which included a placement at Christchurch Hospital, where I worked with children and their families at the diabetes and the oncology and haematology wards. With the added time and reduced stress, I was able to fully apply myself to every assignment and every client, which included creating age-appropriate resources, games, and handouts for my clients. Additionally, I am currently working towards completing my master's degree in psychology, where I have been able to collect data for 80 participants using a VR film paradigm. This has expanded my knowledge about the factors that predispose individuals to PTSD re-experiencing symptoms, which I am looking forward to applying when completing my upcoming internship at Purapura Whetu.

“I am deeply appreciative to the Graduate Women Canterbury Trust for this generous award which has enabled me to have a successful year of study and has further motivated and encouraged me going into my final year of study.”