A would-be psychologist’s performance over a ten-month internship with a mental health clinic has earned him a scholarship from the practice.

Christopher Jackson, 17, is to study for a degree in the subject at Eastern Michigan University and the cash from Solstice, based on Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke, will help to pay for his tuition fees.

Christopher said: “Receiving a scholarship directly from Solstice holds special value to me because it wasn’t a matter of me impressing in one short interview, but showing my capabilities over a ten-month period.

“I feel reassured knowing that a company that aligns with my goals and aspirations in life has given me the backing to pursue tertiary education.”

Christopher’s internship with Solstice came after he discussed his career goals with his school counsellor and his mother, Kimberley Jackson, programme co-ordinator at the training and mentoring programme Mirrors.

The Berkeley Institute graduate contacted several organisations to gain some experience and Solstice was the first to offer him an interview.

He said: “The timing of this was perfect because they were looking for an intern to aid with their social skills and empowerment programme starting in September of 2019, or as we call it, Saturday Groups.

“After my interview, I was offered the chance to be a part of this programme.”

Christopher added: “Apart from me being a relational and observant person, I think that my demonstration of dedication to the cause, which is empowering the children of Bermuda, has allowed me to win this scholarship.”

Christopher co-facilitated the programme’s online and in-person groups alongside qualified clinicians during the internship.

He was trained and supervised to assist with a variety of treatments for young people, including Lego therapy and mindfulness, with clients in a group setting.

Belinda Henderson, a senior clinical psychology assistant at Solstice, added: “Christopher is a team player, directing his individual accomplishments towards team objectives.

“He is a self-aware young man who is intrinsically motivated, flexible, co-operative and dependable.

“Christopher has shown genuine commitment to the Solstice social skills and empowerment programme, raising the bar for his peers.

“During lockdown, he faced the communication challenges creatively and with optimism, helping children to flourish in a virtual, clinical environment.”

Christopher would like to go on to earn a doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in educational research.

He was enrolled in the Bermuda public school system for six years before he moved to Mason, Ohio, in the US and Lansing, Michigan, for four years over middle school and one year of high school.

He returned to Bermuda in 2017 to attend the Berkeley Institute for three years, where he was also enrolled in the dual-enrolment programme at Bermuda College.

When he finished at Berkeley in June, he also graduated from the Bermuda College with merit in the Associate of Arts programme with a concentration in psychology.

Christopher admitted he had limited experience in his field, but told others who wanted to follow in his footsteps that they had to be strong.

He said: “For those looking to enter this field, I would say to make sure to have a good grip of your emotional wellbeing before immersing yourself in this field because, even though it is rewarding, it is very demanding.”

Christopher said he was “a typical boy” outside of his career interests.

He added: “I love to sit down on the weekend and watch as many football games that I can see. Some other hobbies of mine are creative writing and creating music playlists.”