Caleb Jopson

I am a 5th-year psychology student completing a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and am determined to secure a position in the clinical psychology training program. My six years of volunteer experience as a medical first responder have honed my skills in communication, emergency mental health care, and cultural competency. Additionally, my 11-year dedication to the St John Youth program, where I developed and delivered national curriculum modules, has given me a deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga, and Maori health models. In 2023, I completed a global exchange at the University of Amsterdam, followed by three months of solo backpacking, which enhanced my cross-cultural communication skills.

My honours research focused on neural mechanisms of memory in a mouse model of frontotemporal dementia, enhancing my statistical knowledge and ability to research both independently and as part of a team. This work also improved my written and oral communication skills through dissertation writing and lab presentations.

My long-term goal is to become a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in clinical neuropsychology or child and family mental health. I believe this training program will provide the essential skills and knowledge to achieve this.

MEDICAL FIRST RESPONDER | 2017-2023

Fire and Emergency New Zealand - Otematata

• Showing genuine concern, empathy, and understanding for people in distress and providing emotional and medical support during vulnerable moments.
• Upheld a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Maori health models such as Te Whare Tapa Whā through ongoing cultural development.
• Communicating information clearly, calmly, and effectively to the patient, their whānau, and team members through verbal and non-verbal techniques.
• Interacting with and treating patients from diverse backgrounds. Respecting cultural differences and adapting responses accordingly.
• Upholding ethical standards in all actions and decisions as well as ensuring confidentiality and respect for all individuals.
• Recognising personal limits and seeking support for self development. Reflecting on experiences to improve further performance and patient care.
• Staying up to date on best practices and techniques by engaging in ongoing training and professional development.
• Showed respect and sensitivity to Māori patients and their whānau, including recognizing the importance of tikanga, to provide culturally appropriate care.

St John Youth Leader | 2018-2021

St John New Zealand - Oamaru 

• Planned and organised camps and divisional activities to equip youth with essential life skills such as first aid, communication, and leadership.
• Delivered a diverse curriculum in collaboration with teachers and Māori community leaders to children aged 6-18 to foster cultural awareness and inclusivity.
• Mentored rangatahi/youth over a 3-4 year period, guiding them in leadership, effective communication, and the delivery of a national curriculum.
• Ensured lessons were culturally sensitive and inclusive, respecting the beliefs and backgrounds of all participants.
• Built strong relationships with each child in the division, working to understand their unique interests and incorporating them into the teaching approach.
• Developed and reviewed the "Kiwiana" national curriculum in collaboration with tangata whenua, community leaders, social studies teachers, and St John Youth management. Implemented the curriculum across Aotearoa to 7,000 youth aged 8-18, fostering cultural understanding and self-identity. The curriculum included themes of Māori language and culture, Māori and Pākehā relations, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the evolution of diversity and LGBTQ+ rights in New Zealand. Encouraged tamariki to engage with local community members about their societal contributions.

St John Youth Cadet Program (2010-2021)

St John Youth - Regional Cadet of the Year (2019-2020)

• Served as a youth ambassador to the South Island Region, advocating for rangatahi at a regional and national level.
• Presented developments and pitches in the program to national and regional committees.
• Organised and led development camps for 15-25 year olds cantered around themes of "embracing self-identity" and "promoting positive mental health and wellbeing"
• Developed a curriculum plan focused on mental health first aid, promoting personal mental wellbeing, and understanding cross cultural models of mental health and wellbeing.

St John Youth - Regional Representative Squad, National Competitions; National Champion (2017, 2018, 2019)

St John Youth - Aoraki District Cadet of the Year (2018-2019)

• Served as a youth ambassador to the Aorkai district, advocating for rangatahi at a district and regional level.
• Promoted and implemented leadership and personal development initiatives across the district, including the delivery of workshops centred around communication skills, first aid, and leading teams.
• Planned and delivered district camps, providing young people with opportunities to complete courses within the program.
• Advocated for the concerns of young people at a district and regional level, including for the equal distribution of teaching resources and opportunities to under-represented districts.

Students Against Dangerous Driving - National Leader (2018/2019).

Fire and Emergency New Zealand - National Certificate in Emergency Care (First Responder) (2017)

St John Youth Grand Prior's Award (2016).

North Otago Hockey Umpire (2013-2019)