Shonelle Wana

Master of Indigenous Studies

I started studying at Awanuiārangi with a level 4 certificate in te reo Māori. From there I completed a Bachelor of Mātauranga Māori, and now a Master of Indigenous Studies.

My Masters research and thesis pertained to tangihanga on Te Pāroa marae. Graduate study for me started as something I could do to help my hapū by documenting knowledge about the evolution of tangihanga for our people.

In order to complete a Masters thesis within the timeframe provided, I dedicated many early mornings and late nights for eight months to study and writing. I work fulltime so my focus and discipline had to rise to a higher level. Many students who have completed a Bachelor degree come into the Masters degree expecting it to be the same – but you must be able to manage yourself, and your time. I am proud of my work and although I would have loved to have had more time to work on my thesis, time is what keeps you to task, and I am proud of my efforts which resulted in Second Class Honours First Division.

Masters has prepared me for my next journey – the Professional Doctorate degree. The inner growth I experienced on my Masters journey has given me a new outlook on life. The learning and support I have received from mentors and classmates is invaluable and I hope one day to help someone in their journey.