“I have always loved people and finding out what they love about being who they are. My Aunty was an amazing Social Worker, and she had a unique way of working alongside whānau and so many people loved her. I studied this programme because I wanted to have a better understanding of myself to help me become a better parent and person so that I could better advocate for others.
I am a proud South Aucklander who was raised in ?tara as a child so I used to see MIT South Campus all the time and thought how cool it would be to study there one day. I needed to study close to home and close to my children in case they needed me at short notice. I also did a bit of research about the programme compared to other providers and MIT had me sold.
Motivation has been the hardest thing to battle through my studies, but once you know your reasons for being here, your why, you can push through to the end. I have a very busy lifestyle that some may think is over the top. I manage by ensuring I am surrounded by amazing, positive people who celebrate each other’s successes and encourage you to keep going. I celebrate myself when I know I have done well because we forget about ourselves often. You can still be humble and celebrate your achievements.
MIT is so diverse and I have learned so much about the different tikanga each culture values, which I believe is a great way to create those respectful relationships. Maybe I am biased when it comes to MIT. The people who have studied at MIT over the past 52 years have all contributed professionally or personally with heart and grace to our communities around Tāmaki Makaurau and the world. The people of MIT are what makes this place unique.”.
Casey Makiri
MIT student
