Nourishing futures: Scholarship-winning students driving change

The three recipients were awarded either the Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University Master’s Research Scholarship or the Graduate Women North Shore Charitable Trust Scholarship – in some cases, both! These awards not only ease the financial burden of postgraduate study but also reflect the calibre of research being undertaken within our dietetics programme.

Stephanie Cox

Recipient of the Massey University Master’s Research Scholarship and the Graduate Women North Shore Charitable Trust Scholarship.

Stephanie’s research examines the nutritional composition of breast milk donated to New Zealand’s first Milk Bank in Christchurch ‘s Women’s Hospital — work that has the potential to improve outcomes for vulnerable preterm infants.

“My research explores how the postpartum period, gestational age at birth, and maternal characteristics influence the macronutrient [carbohydrate, fat, and protein] profile of donor milk. Providing optimal nutrition for the vulnerable preterm infants in the Christchurch Neonatal Unity is crucial for reducing the risk of both long-term and short-term health complications,” Stephanie explains.

The financial support has helped her focus on both research and the clinical placement component of her degree.

“This bursary gave me the financial stability to dedicate myself fully to study and travel to Christchurch to gain hands-on experience at the milk bank.”

Her long-term goal is to continue in research and contribute to improvements in neonatal nutrition in Aotearoa.

“I’m passionate about improving outcomes for preterm infants, and I hope this research lays the groundwork for further studies and better practice guidelines.”

Stephanie acknowledges her incredible support network, from academic mentors to her loved ones.

“A special thank you to my research supervisors, and to Dr Maria Casale for encouraging me to apply for this scholarship. Most of all, thank you to my wonderful wife! Her love and support has carried me through all of it.”

Caitlin McKenzie

Recipient of the Massey University Master’s Research Scholarship and the Graduate Women North Shore Charitable Trust Scholarship.

Caitlin’s research focuses on menstrual cycle disturbances in response to stress, a topic she explores as part of the wider Female Health Research Project.

“The primary objective of my study is to investigate the influence of perceived stress and cognitive dietary restraint on subclinical ovulatory disturbances. These disturbances are often the first signs of stress-related menstrual cycle changes but are difficult to detect,” Caitlin explains.

Receiving the scholarships has helped Caitlin stay focused on her research while balancing the demands of postgraduate study and placement.

“Having moved away from my family in Christchurch, it definitely hasn’t been easy financially. The scholarship supported me while on placement in Hawke’s Bay and helped me dedicate time to my thesis.”

She hopes her research will lead to better awareness and understanding of female physiology and ultimately, better outcomes for women’s health.

Caitlin credits her supervisor, Associate Professor Claire Badenhorst, and co-supervisor Dr Robyn Lawrence, as well as the wider dietetics team at Massey and her family and friends, for their support throughout her journey.

Maia Cavanagh

Recipient of the Graduate Women North Shore Charitable Trust Scholarship.

Maia’s research evaluates The Body Project, an evidence-based programme designed to prevent eating disorders in young women by challenging harmful beauty ideals.

“The Body Project promotes body acceptance and challenges unrealistic cultural standards around beauty, particularly the ‘thin ideal’. I’m passionate about this area because I’ve seen the pressure young women face, especially in sport.”

The scholarship has made a big difference for Maia after relocating from Invercargill to Auckland for her studies.

“It’s eased financial pressure and allowed me to focus more on my research and clinical placements rather than having to take on extra work.”

Maia is especially excited about the potential impact her research could have across Aotearoa.

“If we find positive results, I’d love to see the programme rolled out more widely, even in schools, to help young girls feel more confident in their bodies.”

Maia expresses deep thanks to her whānau back home, her friends, and the teaching staff at Massey who have supported her. One of the most rewarding aspects of her postgraduate journey has been applying classroom learning in real-world clinical placements.

“It’s a privilege to see the difference dietitian can make in people’s lives.”

Her advice for others considering postgraduate study?

“Don’t be afraid to give it a go. It is hard work, but it’s absolutely worth it.”