Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship recipient: Shadini Dematagoda, Psychology PhD student

What inspires your research?

My research is inspired by a need to ensure that the valuable findings from cognitive aging research are applicable to the general public. While decades of work in this field have advanced our understanding of cognition in aging, much of this work studies a subset of the population–typically those who are advantaged and of the majority. This means that a majority of the world I have seen, as an immigrant who has lived in the diverse Greater Toronto Area for the past 20 years, are excluded from the research base used to inform policy and intervention. I intend to change this by prioritizing the recruitment of a diverse sample and by accounting for factors such as gender, race and socioeconomic status, which likely affect cognition.

What does it mean to be named a Vanier Scholar?

It is such an incredible honour to be recognized alongside some of the most exceptional student scholars and leaders in the country. The Vanier Scholarship means that I am now able to pursue my research with more freedom and confidence. It allows me to fully invest myself in my research interests and it gives me even more motivation to keep asking questions and digging for answers in the cognitive sciences. I am excited and determined to make the most of the opportunity I’ve been given!

What advice do you have for Vanier Scholarship applicants?

Echoing the words of TMU’s previous Vanier Scholars, start early and give yourself enough time to edit! Also, reach out for support! My supervisor not only encouraged me to apply, but also supported me throughout the application process by reviewing drafts of my application material and offering me feedback where she could. TMU is full of supportive supervisors and peers who would be willing to assist where possible, so go ahead and ask!

One of the few nice things about the application process is that you get to see everything you’ve done over the years put down on paper. So, as you write your applications and compile your CVs, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come and give yourself a pat on the back for your accomplishments thus far.

How is your TMU graduate education preparing you to be career-ready?

From day one in the TMU graduate program, I have been encouraged to envision my future career. As an aspiring clinical neuropsychologist and researcher, the faculty and staff have supported me in adapting my education, research and practicum experiences to best suit my needs. During the past 3 years, I’ve seen myself develop into a more critical and creative researcher. My clinical training has also given me the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed. Lastly, by providing such a supportive environment, the TMU graduate program instills confidence in students, which I consider most valuable in becoming career-ready.

What advice do you have for graduate students?

Try to have a roadmap in mind of where you see yourself in five years (or even one year) and reflect on those goals every so often to see whether you’re heading in the direction you want. Rather than getting overwhelmed with all the different opportunities that come our way, actively look for and get involved in those that will develop you into the student, researcher and person you’d like to be by the end of grad school.

Also, don’t forget to celebrate all the milestones along the way, big or small!

Shadini Dematagoda
Psychology PhD student and 2023 NSERC Vanier CGS recipient