Jana Hunt

Introduction

Kia Ora Whānau! Ko Jana taku ingoa. I am a University of Auckland student studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Psychology. 

I have been fortunate enough to be chosen as one of Aotearoa’s PMSA scholarship representatives doing an internship through the Global Careers Centre (GCC) in Mumbai, India. I am incredibly excited and grateful for such a unique opportunity to learn, connect and work with people I would never have had the chance to without the scholarship.

Writing this, I am exactly one month away from departure, and I still cannot believe I am going. I’ve had a lot of changes in the past few years, from a Medicine pathway to Psychology, moving out of home and becoming more independent.  These big changes in my life have enabled me to grow significantly and develop more resilience. I do not doubt that interning in India will do the same.

Getting to understand people’s backgrounds is something I am extremely passionate about. Hence, I truly look forward to creating strong connections with people in India, experiencing a different way of life and being introduced to such a rich culture. 

I am extremely thankful for my opportunity to intern for Aastha Parivaar. This NGO empowers sex workers to enter alternative forms of work through education. It strives to break the cycle of poverty by providing education and healthcare. I look forward to being able to contribute to the outstanding work Aastha Parivaar does for communities. 

I intend to use the experiences, reflections and lessons from the internship back home to Aotearoa to support our communities. I plan to relate this experience to mental health and education in Aotearoa, a space I am very passionate about working in after my studies.

I want to acknowledge the privileged position I am in to have grown up and been educated in Aotearoa. Especially having had the opportunities that lead me to get this scholarship. As well as the amazing people throughout my life from work, volunteering, whānau, and friends that continue to inspire me to do more to help others

I cannot wait to take you on this journey with me!