A free guide to study and career options for high school students Years 11-13 May 2017 | ISSUE # 9 Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning. – Albert Einstein
ELLA SIMS | REGISTERED NURSE
MATT BARHAM | ELECTRONICS ENGINEER
A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.
– Sir Winston Churchill SAM HODSELL | DAIRY FARMER
MONIQUE SOUTHEY | POLICE OFFICER
This year’s
GOT A TRADE WEEK 21– 27 August
visit . . . www.gotatrade.co.nz
ELIZA McCARTNEY | ATHLETE – TRACK & FIELD
LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
MICHAEL BENNETT | HVAC APPRENTICE
Karen Sue
Studying: BCom/LLB with a BCom major in Accounting.
Leaving high school and starting university can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but try not to worry! For most people, university is one of the best experiences of their lives. University of Auckland Business School students Karen and Matthew share their thoughts on how to make a smooth transition.
Was university what you expected?
Matthew McQueen
Studying: BCom/BE(Hons) with BCom majors in Economics and Finance.
The biggest change was the amount of freedom and flexibility compared with school. You control your time and I liked that, but you need to be organised so you don’t miss deadlines. The style of learning is quite different and the workload was a slight step up, but I felt quite ready and excited to get started.
How did you manage financially? Living at home you save a lot of money and can use that to do other things, like I want to go on a university exchange to Dublin in my final year. I work part-time at a cake shop, just a few hours a week so I can easily fit in my study and club time.
Any advice for meeting people?
Tips for success Seek advice before choosing your courses Learn to manage your time and study smarter Balance work and study to make it more affordable Develop your own thoughts and opinions Get involved – join uni clubs!
Join some clubs, get involved! Even if it’s silly clubs where you just get the free food, or serious clubs like the Management Consulting Club, it’s a great way to meet people. You also make friends through tutorial groups. Don’t just see university as a place to do classes. Don’t just bus in, do class and then bus out.
What advice have you got for high school students coming to university? Definitely look into courses before you decide what you want to do. Seek out what’s available. Don’t just choose courses your friends want to do, choose things you want to do. Use the first year core papers as a stepping stone for working out what you really enjoy and to inform your next choices.
Why did you choose the University of Auckland? I had an idea about what I wanted to do. I was interested in science and I was interested in business, so I essentially found a programme where I could do both as a conjoint. I liked the options and support offered at the University of Auckland, and I’m pleased with my decision.
Heading to university in 2018? www.business.auckland.ac.nz
#loveplumbing
WE KNOW CHOOSING A CAREER PATH CAN BE A LITTLE DAUNTING... YOU PROBABLY HAVE SOME BIG QUESTIONS? AND NOT MANY ANSWERS. Well our advice is to look at what really interests you first and take it from there. So, have you thought about a career in the plumbing trades?
There’s going to be a lot of tradesmen retiring soon and the reality is New Zealand will need more tradespeople on the ground to get the work done. Did you know that plumbing is one of the most lucrative trades out there – once you’re qualified there’s nothing stopping you from starting your own business and really going for it. Sound interesting? Well Plumbing World have the industry contacts to get the ball rolling on an apprenticeship right away! So if the Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainlaying or associated trades floats your boat come and see ‘your team in black’ and who knows… you could have the career of your dreams kick off before you know it! Keep in the know by joining our Club go to... Facebook.com/YPCNZ
Branches Nationwide. Freephone 0800 800 686. plumbingworld.co.nz
LEAVING SCHOOL Issue #9 / MAY 2017
07 FOREWORD | MAX HARRIS, RHODES SCHOLAR
28 SHAREMILKER | SAM HODSELL
08 ACCOUNTANT | HAZEL LIM
29 SALES REPRESENTATIVE | JONATHAN BURROWS
11 APPRENTICESHIPS | GOT A TRADE
30 FEATURE | JOB APPLICATION CHECKLIST
12 EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER | JAMIE BURT
32 POLICE | MONIQUE SOUTHEY
15 GENETIC EVALUATION | MELISSA STEPHEN
33 FEATURE | FUTURE OF WORK
16 CIVIL ENGINEER | SARAH KELLY
34 FEATURE | COPING STRATEGIES
19 CORPORATE FINANCE | BEN BRAID
35 ELECTRONICS ENGINEER | MATT BARHAM
20 PERFORMANCE DESIGN | JASMINE SHADBOLT
36 SPORT AND RECREATION | CAM ANDREWS
21 RETAIL TEAM LEADER | DIVAN BADENHORST
38 HVAC APPRENTICE | MICHAEL BENNETT
22 REGISTERED NURSE | ELLA SIMS
39 CADASTRAL SURVEYOR | CLAIRE BUXTON
24 NOTICEBOARD | KEY DATES AND EVENTS…
40 FEATURE | TRANSITIONING TO UNIVERSITY
26 FEATURE | FINANCIAL HEALTH
42 FEATURE | SPORTSPEOPLE Q&A
27 SCIENCE HONOURS STUDENT | ANTONY VAVAI
44 FEATURE | JOBS IN FOCUS
What attributes to take with you as you leave school.
Following a love of numbers into the world of financial reporting.
MANAGING EDITOR Oliver Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julia Capon, Sara Carbery, Diana Clement, Peter White, Josh Williams, Dr Melanie Woodfield, Robyn Yousef SUB-EDITOR Elise McDowell PAGINATION & LAYOUT HNZL 2014 Limited PRINTER PMP Limited, Auckland PHOTOGRAPHY Megan Graham, Blair Hillyard, Martin Hunter, Kate MacPherson, Marty Melville, Photosport, Cynthia Qui, Steve Selwood, Alan Stevens PUBLISHER
Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland 0740, New Zealand T: +64-9-486 6966 E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz W: oliverlee.co.nz W: LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ ISSN 2463-3380 (Print) ISSN 2463-3399 (Online)
CONTENTS
An introduction to what these are and some hints on securing one. Inspiring and teaching babies and young children.
Being involved with an industry that moves a million miles per hour. A career where pay, prospects, prestige and opportunities combine. Bachelor of Laws and Commerce leads to a corporate career. Where a Bachelor of Design (Stage and Screen) can take you. Make up your mind to focus on business management. Consider nursing if you are keen on a vocation that is fast paced, social and team oriented. Here are all the details on the key dates, events, websites, hints and tips you need in one location. Top tips to avoid financial faux pas.
A strong focus on achieving goals, a love of the Pacific and marine biology all come together.
5
A lifestyle that provides freedom, the outdoors and opportunities. Plumbing industry is in need of skilled staff in many types of roles. The 13 things you must do before you hit send on your application.
Putting on the uniform and responding to emergencies. Looking ahead to your future job – does it even exist right now? Techniques and tips to manage times of stress and change. Steering toward a career in automotive engineering. Using sport as a vehicle to help and mentor young adults. Get ahead of the trend – train for an industry experiencing strong growth.
A career that mixes a love of New Zealand with maths, problem solving and being outdoors. A personal account of the experience of moving from high school to university, and a few hints for managing it yourself. Eight of our leading sports stars talk high school and their chosen path. Profiling and number-crunching jobs across the science and medical industries.
Throughout this magazine, each case study has been colour coded to its Vocational Pathway. In some instances, multiple colours are used to show that the skills you learn can be applied across multiple careers and pathways, throughout your lifetime. Visit www.youthguarantee.net.nz/vocational-pathways to learn more about Vocational Pathways.
Free courses available!
Enrol Now! nzma.ac.nz 0800 222 833 BUSINESS | CONTACT CENTRE | EARLY CHILDHOOD COOKERY | SPORT & FOUNDATION SKILLS TRADES | HEALTH | HOSPITALITY | RETAIL
Our tradition of excellence is your foundation for success
at New Zealand’s only law school in the world’s top 40*.
• Be part of a vibrant group of like-minded students. Learn from lecturers who are passionate about the law and dedicated to helping you achieve success. • Join us for incredible academic and social opportunities – from national and international competitions, to active and supportive law student societies. • Thrive in small-group teaching environments as you study from the largest range of undergraduate courses of any New Zealand law school. Come and discover for yourself why we’ve earnt the title of New Zealand’s leading law school.
For more information visit law.auckland.ac.nz Phone: 0800 61 62 63 Email: undergradlaw@auckland.ac.nz Facebook: facebook.com/akllawschool
*QS World University Rankings by Faculty 2017
written by MAX HARRIS
image by MARTY MELVILLE
KEEP ASKING THE HARD QUESTIONS WHEN I WAS COMING TO THE END OF MY TIME AT HIGH SCHOOL – IN 2004/2005 – I DIDN’T HAVE A CLEAR IDEA OF WHAT WAS AHEAD. I WAS AT WELLINGTON COLLEGE. I’D DONE A LOT OF DRAMA IN MY FINAL YEAR, A FAIR AMOUNT OF PREPARATION FOR EXAMS AND QUITE A LOT OF HANGING OUT WITH FRIENDS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL.
FOREWORD
WORKING OUT YOUR CONTRIBUTION
7
I knew I was excited about university, having been accepted into a course at the University of Auckland. There were new subjects you couldn’t do at school (like Political Studies or Philosophy), and things called ‘lectures’ and ‘tutorials’. But I wasn’t sure what I’d focus on at university, I was nervous about leaving home and I didn’t know what might come after university if I got through it. I ended up studying a conjoint Law/Arts degree (influenced by a friend I really respected), and was lucky enough to get a Rhodes Scholarship. I’m 28 now, and have just finished a book, The New Zealand Project.
ONE IMPORTANT WAY YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE MEANINGFULLY IS BY VOTING IN THE FIRST ELECTION THAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU TURN 18. BUT YOU’LL ALL HAVE SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO GIVE, THROUGH WORK OR FAMILY OR CREATIVE PURSUITS: A CONTRIBUTION TO ON. THE NEW ZEALAND PROJECT THAT WE’RE ALL WORKING I feel awkward offering advice to any of you. You’re all in different positions. Some of you might be aiming to go straight into the workforce or to do other things away from university. Some of you might have done university courses already (something that wasn’t an option for me). Some of you will know what you want to do – others won’t. The only advice I’d offer is: hold on to some of the great things about being a young person. In particular, in my experience, when you’re a young school-leaver, you’re more likely to ask big questions about life and the world. Questions like, why does school have to be taught the way it is? Why do we have the system of government we have? Why couldn’t we do things differently? These questions are drummed out of you as you get older. But society needs you to keep asking these difficult questions if we are to improve how we do things. It’s also worth remembering that – however well or badly school has gone – you’ve got something to offer to this community we all share. I’m not just talking to the high achievers, the prefects or the prize winners. One important way you can contribute meaningfully is by voting in the first election that happens after you turn 18. But you’ll all have something different to give, through work or family or creative pursuits: a contribution to the New Zealand project that we’re all working on. Keep asking hard questions. Try to work out how you might be able to contribute. We’re lucky to live in this country, but Aotearoa New Zealand is also lucky to have you – as a school-leaver heading out to make this place even better.
MAX HARRIS is an Examination Fellow at All Souls College in Oxford and a former Rhodes Scholar. A graduate of the University of Auckland, he has worked as a clerk for Chief Justice Elias at the Supreme Court and as a consultant in Helen Clark’s Executive Office at the United Nations Development Programme. THE NEW ZEALAND PROJECT by Max Harris Max Harris’s The New Zealand Project presents a vision for how New Zealand can address the big challenges ahead, including climate change, wealth inequality and the future of work.
Max Harris LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
ACCOUNTANT
A LOVE OF NUMBERS
8
FINANCIAL REPORTING: IT ALL ADDS UP written by SARA CARBERY
photo credit HAZEL LIM
WHEN HAZEL LIM BALANCED HER FIRST BALANCE SHEET IN YEAR 11 IT WAS “LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT”. HAVING SAID THAT, THE 22-YEAR-OLD ACCOUNTANT DID TOY WITH THE IDEA OF STUDYING GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR A WHILE. “But I decided that my personality type wasn’t so good at making decisions that were very subjective (for example, which one looks better), so I chose what I naturally leaned towards – numbers.” After completing Year 13 at Auckland’s Pakuranga College, Hazel enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland, an experience she thoroughly enjoyed. “I loved it! I loved having independence. Getting involved in different university clubs and the experience of meeting new people that end up becoming very good friends. It’s a time of my life I treasure and look back on fondly.” Afterward, Hazel, who has lived in New Zealand since she was eight, returned to her birth country Singapore. There, she has been working in the financial reporting team of a large security firm for the past three months. “Simply put, the main part of my job is to be a ‘storyteller’ of the revenue we earn each month and make sure the numbers add up,” she says. She enjoys the problem solving aspect of her job. “The main difference between work life and university is that at work, nobody is going to give you the answer (and you don’t even know if one exists). You have to find or create it for yourself. That’s when both my creative and systematic sides can work together to churn out a solution.” Hazel took NCEA Level 3 physics, calculus, statistics, classics, accounting and economics – all helpful subjects in terms of shaping ‘soft skills’ such as problem solving and communication, she says. “In terms of technical knowledge, accounting and economics were useful because they laid a strong foundation for the basic concepts that are later applied to more broad and complex material in the ‘real world’.” Her advice to school leavers is, “Don’t be pressured by anyone when choosing what you want to study – make sure it’s your decision so you can take full ownership of it.”
KEY FACTS ■ HAZEL LIM HAS A BACHELOR OF COMMERCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND. ■ SHE TOOK NCEA LEVEL 3 PHYSICS, CALCULUS, STATISTICS, CLASSICS, ACCOUNTING AND ECONOMICS. ■ HAZEL WORKS IN THE FINANCIAL REPORTING TEAM OF A LARGE SECURITY FIRM IN SINGAPORE.
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on studying Commerce through the University of Auckland, visit www.business.auckland.ac.nz
YOUR REAL-LIFE
ADVENTURE
STARTS HERE...
EARN AS YOU LEARN,
QUALIFY, TRAVEL
DOING WHAT
YOU LOVE
Discover exciting career opportunities in one of our vibrant sectors: travel; tourism; aviation; accommodation; quick-service restaurants; museums; retail and retail supply chain; cafĂŠs, bars & restaurants; clubs; catering. The great news for you is that many businesses offer ServiceIQ on-job training programmes, so you can earn as you learn, get a nationally recognised qualification, and a solid career to set you up for more adventure.
ServiceIQ is the Industry Training Organisation (ITO) for the service industry. We develop on-job training programmes for businesses keen to provide their staff with relevant skills, training and qualifications, knowing that it’s great people who make a great business.
CHECK US OUT AT:
www.ServiceIQ.org.nz
What’s your favourite subject at school? What do you enjoy doing? If you have the drive and ambition, you too can turn your favourite school subject into a dream career. The possibilities are endless. Go to gotatrade.co.nz/getatrade to see the full list of trades currently available.
Where will a trade take you?
DO YOU WANT TO GET A TRADE?
GET AHEAD SOONER WITH AN APPRENTICESHIP YOU MIGHT HAVE HEARD ABOUT APPRENTICESHIPS, BUT BE UNSURE ABOUT WHAT ONE IS OR HOW YOU GET ONE. HOPEFULLY THIS INFORMATION HELPS BECAUSE THERE ARE NO LIMITS TO WHERE A TRADE CAN TAKE YOU. The basics of apprenticeship are this: as part of your job, you work towards gaining skills and qualifications that are recognised all over New Zealand and respected all over the world. Once you get qualified, you are then set up for a big future – you might run your own company, start your own business, and become the best of the best in your chosen profession. In an apprenticeship, you can earn a wage while you learn your skill. $30,000 a year or so to begin with, which is not megabucks but way more than earning zero as a student, and you won’t have a student loan. It’s also just the start. If you work hard, and do a good job, your income will rise fast. But also, the work is so varied. Apprentices learn how to do real stuff in the real world –
building things, fixing things, caring for people, growing and preparing food, giving people great experiences. New Zealand needs skilled people like that to keep our country growing. So, how do you get an apprenticeship? Well, the hardest part definitely is getting that first job. Start knocking on doors. Some industries don’t even advertise jobs, since they know that enough people knock on their door – make sure one of them is you! Your teachers and careers advisors have probably told you that you need a CV, and there is usually an interview, but you might not know what it is that employers are looking for, so here are some tips:
BIG BUS TOUR 2016
APPRENTICESHIPS
written by JOSH WILLIAMS
If you meet an employer, look them in the eye – this shows them you’re interested. Being keen to learn is pretty much the number one thing employers look for, so try and get that across. Work experience really helps. Any part-time jobs or volunteering you have done can matter to an employer just as much as your NCEA results. Driver’s licence, driver’s licence, driver’s licence. Not just for driving jobs but for letting employers know that you have gone through the process and can get around under your own steam. Remember, the truth is you might not get your dream job straight away, but getting that door opened, hard work and showing interest might just lead to your dream future.
BEN NORTON | FITTING AND MACHINING ENGINEER
YOU PROBABLY KNOW MOST OF THE TRADES, ONES LIKE CARPENTER AND MECHANIC. But did you know there are over 100 different trades you can choose as your career? From furniture design to Aeronautical Engineer to Police Officer.
For more advice on apprenticeships, visit gotatrade.co.nz/resources/ for-career-seekers
THIS YEAR, GOT A TRADE WEEK IS 21–27 AUGUST. GO TO THE WEBSITE TO FIND ALL THE AWESOME EVENTS IN YOUR AREA, gotatrade.co.nz/events
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
11
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER TEXT 12
FOLLOWING INSTINCTS TO TEACH ENCOURAGING EARLY CHILDHOOD written by ROBYN YOUSEF
photograph by MARTY MELVILLE
SHE DID TAKE SOME DIVERSIONS ALONG THE WAY, BUT AT 24 YEARS OF AGE, JAMIE BURT KNOWS HER CURRENT CAREER AS AN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TEACHER IS EXACTLY WHERE SHE WANTS TO BE. Jamie, who lives in Titahi Bay, Wellington, moved to New Zealand from the Philippines when she was six years old. Her secondary school education was at St Mary’s College in Wellington. Small children dominate her childhood memories. “I helped my Mum who worked as a home carer for children under five. Being the oldest girl in a family of six, I also helped with my younger siblings. I was surrounded by young children for all my years growing up, and I loved it .” Jamie also enjoyed her school days, particularly her involvement in sports, while she also loved art – as it inspired her creativity. She suggests school leavers interested in early childhood education concentrate on English (“you’ll have lots of writing opportunities with work”), and will find a knowledge of the Maori language helpful.
YOU CAN READ (AND DOWNLOAD) THE LEAVING SCHOOL MAGAZINE ONLINE BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
“My art teacher in my last year of college was super supportive with my decisions, giving me time to finish and learn at my own pace. This really encouraged me to do the same thing with the future generation.” — Jamie Burt University. Maths and accounting had been favourite subjects of hers at secondary school, but it was
during these studies Jamie started relieving work for Daisies Early Education & Care Centre and then, during holidays, working as a home carer for three children under five. “It wasn’t until the summer of 2013 that I worked a few days a week at Daisies and absolutely enjoyed myself, and I was convinced I had to change my degree again.” So she bravely made the switch – inspired by years of enjoying small children and a creative art teacher who made her want to teach. “I love seeing the look on a child’s face when they learn something new. I’d also like to go back to working with infants as I found that very calming.” Jamie hopes one day to own her own centre (“where the management and accountancy studies will help”), but she has a dream to travel to Chile with her husband. “We have friends opening an orphanage there and we would love to do some voluntary work with these kids.”
KEY FACTS ■ JAMIE BURT HAS A BACHELOR OF TEACHING (EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION) FROM TE RITO MAIOHA EARLY CHILDHOOD NEW ZEALAND. ■ SHE WORKS AS AN EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER WITH THREE- TO FIVE-YEAR-OLDS AT CHILDSPACE IN WILTON, WELLINGTON ■ JAMIE SUGGESTS SCHOOL LEAVERS INTERESTED IN THIS CAREER CONCENTRATE ON ENGLISH AND HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE MAORI LANGUAGE.
Children are our future, is teaching them yours? Now be based anywhere in New Zealand with our Flexi-learn model! Teaching our youngest citizens and setting them up for life-long learning is an incredibly rewarding career. The Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) is the benchmark qualification sought by early childhood service employers and our reputation is second to none. No day will be the same when you work in a role that couples knowledge with nurturing. Learn, teach and earn! ECNZ’s centre-based degree allows you to study and work at the same time. What you learn in class or in online discussion one day, you can apply the very next day in your ECE working environment. Applications close 1 December 2017 for study beginning February 2018.
GO TO Piki mai ki runga i tō mātou waka. Tukua mai tō tono.
ecnz.ac.nz TO FIND OUT MORE
E enrol@ecnz.ac.nz P 0800 244 532
For more information on studying Early Childhood Education through Te Rito Maioha, visit www.ecnz.ac.nz
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER
She credits her art teacher, Miss Lisa Mrkusic, for having a big influence on her decision to teach. “My art teacher in my last year of college was super supportive with my decisions, giving me time to finish and learn at my own pace. This really encouraged me to do the same thing with the future generation. I too wanted to capture their passion and interest without the standards of everyone else,” she explains. Jamie graduated this year with a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) from Te Rito Maioha Early Childhood New Zealand (ECNZ)). She now works with a group of three- to five-year-olds at Childspace in Wilton, Wellington. “I got lots of support during my three-year course at ECNZ as they were wonderfully flexible in my study times, enabling me to work four days a week.” Before ECNZ, Jamie completed a year studying management and business papers at Weltec and then went on to start a maths degree at Victoria
13
a world of opportunities
VARIETY, CHALLENGE AND FINANCIAL REWARDS
Scholarship support for your study
DAIRY FARMING
DairyNZ Scholarships cover your tuition fees up to $6325 per year for up to four years, plus support and mentoring during agri-related uni study at Lincoln, Massey or Waikato Universities. To find out more, check out dairynz.co.nz/scholarships
AGRI-SCIENCE
AGRI-BUSINESS
GROW YOUR FUTURE WITH DAIRYING
dairynz.co.nz/careers
photograph by ALAN STEVENS
FASCINATED BY ANIMAL SCIENCE THE EXCITING FIELD OF GENETICS
ONE OF THE CHALLENGES WHEN DECIDING WHAT CAREER YOU WANT IS GETTING YOUR HEAD AROUND THE INCREDIBLY DIVERSE RANGE OF JOBS THAT EXISTS THESE DAYS. FOR EXAMPLE, HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF A GENETIC EVALUATION DEVELOPER? That’s Melissa Stephen’s job title. Employed by DairyNZ, her role is to translate complex ideas and data into information that is quick for farmers to understand and make decisions on. Dairy farmers want to know which animals, bulls in particular, are going to produce the best performing herd, which is where Melissa and others like her come in. Melissa (27) has a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Agricultural Management from Lincoln University,
and studied Genetics for Livestock Improvement extramurally through Massey University after graduating from Lincoln. Although she grew up in the city, Melissa has always loved animals, dogs especially, so a semi-rural university was the perfect choice for her. “I absolutely loved Lincoln; it was just the kind of environment I wanted to be in,” she says. “It was full of like-minded people just as keen on animals, the environment
and being outside as I was.” Melissa even had her own heading dog, Blue, who she entered in to sheep dog trials. “After lectures I’d train him three or four times a week, on sheep in a paddock nearby.” When she left school, Melissa had her sights set on becoming a rural banker but at Lincoln she became interested in animal science and any chance she got, she opted to take animal science papers. This meant she could have swapped
“I find genetics really interesting. It’s an exciting field to be part of and is moving forward at a million miles per hour!” — Melissa Stephen MELISSA (RIGHT) TALKS WITH MARION REYNOLDS, A FARM MANAGER IN TE AROHA.
to a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Animal Science, halfway through but Melissa stuck with her Bachelor of Commerce to keep her options open – something she encourages others to do. “Your ideas of what you want to do will change over time.” Melissa’s interest in genetic evaluation was sparked after graduation, during her time working as an information services administrator for a dairy genetics company. “I find genetics really interesting. It’s an exciting field to be part of and is moving forward at a million miles per hour!” And with these speedy advances comes more and more data that needs to be interpreted by someone who knows what they’re looking at. “Data is useless on its own,” says Melissa. “It needs to be turned into information before it can help anyone.” In her final year at Whangarei Girls’ High School, Melissa took statistics, English, art, biology and classical studies, which she swapped to from chemistry. (“Not a great move as I had to do chemistry at uni!”) She says English and statistics have turned out to be the most useful subjects in her current job, although biology was helpful for animal science.
KEY FACTS ■ MELISSA STEPHEN HAS A BACHELOR OF COMMERCE MAJORING IN AGRICULTURAL MANAGEMENT FROM LINCOLN UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY. ■ SHE ALSO STUDIED GENETICS FOR LIVESTOCK IMPROVEMENT EXTRAMURALLY THROUGH MASSEY UNIVERSITY. ■ MELISSA WORKS AS A GENETIC EVALUATION DEVELOPER FOR DAIRYNZ.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on the career options available in agriculture, visit www.dairynz.co.nz/careers or www.growingnz.org.nz
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
GENETIC EVALUATION
written by SARA CARBERY
15
CIVIL ENGINEER
CIVIL ENGINEERING
16
HUGE DEMAND FOR FUTURE WORKERS written by SARA CARBERY
photograph by ALAN STEVENS
THE PRESTIGE, PAY AND JOB PROSPECTS ARE JUST A FEW OF THE PERKS OF BEING AN ENGINEER, BUT IT WAS A WISH TO BETTER THE LIVES OF OTHERS THAT DROVE SARAH KELLY DOWN THE ROAD OF CIVIL ENGINEERING – A DISCIPLINE THAT PROVIDES THE FACILITIES FOR DAY-TO-DAY LIFE AND FOR TRANSPORT AND INDUSTRY TO GO ABOUT ITS WORK. “I wanted to help make a difference in the world,” explains Sarah. “I wanted to help rebuild areas struck by natural disasters or build homes in developing countries.”
“I did find the course quite challenging at times,” Sarah admits. “However, through the support provided by the Women in Engineering Network and the Tuākana Programme, I persevered.”
After achieving University Entrance and NCEA Level 3 in calculus, physics, biology, chemistry and English at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, she enrolled in the internationally recognised Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) programme at the University of Auckland.
Sarah (24) completed her degree in 2015 and since then she has been working as a Civil Engineer at Calibre Consulting in Auckland.
Sarah (Ngati Raukawa) gained entry into the degree through the Tuākana Engineering Programme, an initiative to support Māori and Pacific engineering students in their first year of study.
She started out in the urban development team, working on civil design, consents and reports for new subdivisions, before recently transferring to the transportation team. Sarah loves the variety her job offers. “A really cool thing is that I can be in the office designing one day, out on site the next, attending seminars
and training or at a client meeting. It is forever changing and that’s what keeps it interesting. This includes opportunities to transfer teams or office locations, and within Calibre there are also opportunities to do work in the Pacific.” Calibre also supports Sarah in her roles as a Futureintech Ambassador and Family Science volunteer, which are initiatives to encourage more students into engineering, technology and science careers. “I really enjoy talking to students about the cool stuff I do at work and sharing my passion with them.” As far as job prospects go, Sarah believes there is “a huge demand” for engineers, and always will be.
Create solutions to complex problems Lead the way and design solutions for our future with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree from New Zealand’s top university and engineering faculty.* engineering.auckland.ac.nz
*QS World University Rankings by Faculty 2016/2017
ENGINEERING
“
CIVIL ENGINEER
I can be in the office designing one day, out on site the next, attending seminars and training or at a client meeting. It is forever changing and that’s what keeps it interesting. — Sarah Kelly “I don’t know of anyone within the civil engineering specialty who wasn’t able to begin their career straight after uni.” Her advice to others thinking about studying engineering is, “Don’t give up. It may seem like a long, difficult road to get there, but there are so many support networks to help you along the way. “It is all worth it.”
17
KEY FACTS ■ SARAH KELLY HAS A BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING (HONOURS) FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND. ■ SHE WORKS AS A CIVIL ENGINEER ON THE TRANSPORT TEAM AT CALIBRE CONSULTING. ■ SARAH ACHIEVED NCEA LEVEL 3 IN CALCULUS, PHYSICS, BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND ENGLISH.
For more information on studying Civil Engineering through the University of Auckland, visit www.engineering.auckland.ac.nz and to find out more on what a career in engineering, technology or science can offer you, check out www.futureintech.org.nz
LIMITLESS POTENTIAL Electrician
e tc o . c o . n z Once you’ve completed your electrical apprenticeship with etco*, your potential is limited only by your own ambition...
Inspector University Student Business Owner Industry Leader
Qualify for the real world ENGINEERING
BUSINESS & LAW UC’s business, law and criminal justice programmes encourage you to be innovative and to make a difference, as you prepare for professional roles, such as an accountant, lawyer or manager.
Study at New Zealand’s premier College of Engineering. UC Engineering offers a four-year professional degree in nine engineering disciplines.
• • • •
• • • •
Creative and entrepreneurial Work ready skills Internships and community projects Business and culture study tours and exchanges
www.buslaw.canterbury.ac.nz
Practical work experience International opportunities Global Humanitarian Diploma New state-of-the-art facilities and labs
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
FORESTRY Limitless possibilities come from combining creative design, science, engineering and business. A degree that promotes interdisciplinary innovation.
Looking for a career where your office is outdoors? Study a Bachelor of Forestry Science at New Zealand’s only university-based School of Forestry.
• Industrial Product Design • Applied Immersive Game Design • Chemical, Natural & Healthcare Product Formulation
• Professional degrees in one of NZ’s biggest industries • Field trips and overseas exchanges • Conservation, biosecurity and management
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering/product-design
www.forestry.ac.nz
Get a professional degree to get ahead! First year scholarships available for 2018. www.canterbury.ac.nz or 0800 VARSITY (827 748)
photograph by MARTIN HUNTER
LAW AND COMMERCE
ZEROING IN ON CORPORATE FINANCE HAVING GRADUATED WITH DEGREES IN COMMERCE AND LAW, AND INVOLVED IN MANY SPHERES OF CAMPUS LIFE DURING HIS SIX YEARS AT UNIVERSITY, BENJAMIN BRAID IS WELL POSITIONED TO OFFER ADVICE TO ANYONE INTERESTED IN PURSUING TERTIARY STUDY. Benjamin (24) certainly made the most of his time at the University of Canterbury, travelling to China on a four-week management study tour, and holding a long-term position at entré, a student-run company that operates with the purpose of inspiring and developing entrepreneurship within students. Benjamin also completed a summer internship with ANZ, and in his final summer at university participated in the Centre for Entrepreneurship’s Summer Startup Programme on campus, which saw him develop an idea and attempt to start a business alongside 29 others. “In terms of the study itself, I always enjoyed my commerce studies. Commerce felt like a natural progression from high school. “However, law is completely different. It was a new concept to me and provided some challenging moments. The core law courses tested my abilities. Once through to the other side, though, I began to really enjoy law,” says Benjamin, admitting this may have had something to do with the release of the TV series Suits. In his final year at Christchurch Boys’ High School, Benjamin took NCEA and Cambridge English. He studied mathematics with calculus, accounting, economics, graphics and, through the Young Enterprise Scheme, business management.
“
I always enjoyed my commerce studies. Commerce felt like a natural progression from high school. However, law is completely different. It was a new concept to me and provided some challenging moments. — Benjamin Braid
Business management was a lone practical paper among the theory, and extremely worthwhile, reflects Benjamin. “It produced real life
lessons, teaching the power of relationships and providing the ability to have a conversation in the marketplace.”
As expected, high school English was helpful for law, but perhaps more surprisingly, economics was too. “It was an amazing subject that required both micro- and macro-analysis alongside rigorous logic development.” Although Benjamin’s family’s involvement in business sparked many dinner time conversations, he had thought of becoming an architect up until Year 13. “The tipping point occurred during the Young Enterprise Scheme when I was given the opportunity to represent New Zealand at an international trade challenge held in Singapore. From this point onwards, I was set on a career in commerce.” Benjamin majored in Taxation and Accounting for his Bachelor of Commerce, and he is now working at PwC as a Corporate Finance/Deals Analyst, spending the majority of his time working on business mergers and acquisitions. “I really enjoy what I do and can see myself in this industry for a long time.” His top seven tips for students? ■ Get involved ■ Start networking ■ Learn how to tell a good story ■ Build strong friendships and experiences ■ Keep reading ■ Never stop learning ■ Have fun.
KEY FACTS ■ BENJAMIN BRAID HAS A BACHELOR OF COMMERCE AND A BACHELOR OF LAWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY. ■ HE WORKS AT PwC AS A CORPORATE FINANCE/DEALS ANALYST.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on studying Commerce through the University of Canterbury, visit www.bsec.canterbury.ac.nz
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
CORPORATE FINANCE
written by SARA CARBERY
19
PERFORMANCE DESIGNER 20
written by SARA CARBERY
photograph by MARTY MELVILLE
STAGE AND SCREEN
A LOVE OF FILM, DESIGN AND TEXTILES AS A YOUNG GIRL, JASMINE SHADBOLT DID FACE PAINTING AT STILT WALKING GIGS SHE WENT TO WITH HER MUM, AND DREW AND PAINTED “ON EVERYTHING” AT HOME. THIS EARLY INTEREST IN ART EVOLVED INTO A FINAL YEAR AT PALMERSTON NORTH’S AWATAPU COLLEGE THAT WAS PACKED FULL OF CREATIVITY. She took photography, design, textiles and geography in Year 13 and spent the rest of her time helping to run events in her role as the school’s art captain and entering the Evento Wearable Arts Competition. “I continued to wonder if it was possible to do this as a job since I really enjoyed it and as soon as I saw that there was a place like Toi Whakaari where I could study film and theatre I knew I had to go there to figure out how I could turn this into a career.” Inspired by “the elaborate costumes and the beautiful set and prop construction” she saw at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School, Jasmine enrolled in the Bachelor of Design (Stage and Screen). “I wanted to learn how to make beautiful work and understand how you could possibly do something to this scale as one person. Turns out you can’t, you have to learn to collaborate to produce epic performances.” These days Jasmine (23) juggles a number of projects. Part of the year is dedicated to working in the prop department for feature films. She worked on Ghost in the Shell and Thor last year and is currently working on the new film based on the book Mortal Engines (produced by Peter Jackson). Jasmine is also art directing her first short film, Southland’s Home, which began shooting in May.
JASMINE SHADBOLT WITH ONE OF HER ARTWORKS, A MURAL TITLED “FINGER WINGS” PAINTED ON A GARAGE DOOR IN LEEDS STREET, WELLINGTON.
JASMINE WORKED ON Ghost In The Shell AND Thor LAST YEAR AND IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON THE NEW FILM BASED ON THE BOOK Mortal Engines (PRODUCED BY PETER JACKSON).
In 2016 she started her own brand, Lacuna.nz, to keep her going when film work is slow. “I draw illustrations, custom paint designs, digital design and Photoshop.” During summer Jasmine jumps into the festival season, this year designing and co-ordinating a theme camp called the Kitchen Sink for the New Zealand regional Burning Man festival.
“I enjoy the variety, the uncertainty, the fear that makes me budget properly for times when I know I will be out of film work. I enjoy the challenge of being my own boss and holding myself accountable.” Jasmine says she has found all of her high school subjects useful. “Considering I want to design, paint and work for film while travelling
around the world, they all sort of fit together.” Her advice to others interested in performance design is, “Watch films, theatre shows and go to public events. Learn and imagine how things you are seeing are possibly organised and created from just an idea. Learn more about how the whole production works so you know what you’re signing up for and then start asking questions.”
KEY FACTS ■ JASMINE SHADBOLT HAS A BACHELOR OF DESIGN (STAGE AND SCREEN) FROM TOI WHAKAARI: NEW ZEALAND DRAMA SCHOOL. ■ SHE HAS HER OWN DESIGN BUSINESS, LACUNA.NZ, AND ALSO WORKS IN THE PROP DEPARTMENT ON FEATURE FILMS. ■ FOR NCEA LEVEL 3, JASMINE TOOK PHOTOGRAPHY, DESIGN, TEXTILES AND GEOGRAPHY.
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on studying Design (Stage and Screen) through Toi Whakaari, visit www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz/design
photo credit BLAIR HILLYARD
AIMING FOR THE TOP
ON THE WAY TO BUSINESS MANAGEMENT “START BY DEVELOPING YOUR CREATIVE SIDE. THE COSMETICS INDUSTRY IS NOT JUST ABOUT EXPERIENCE, IT IS ALSO ABOUT ATTITUDE, CREATIVITY AND AMBITION. PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE, DON’T JUST FOLLOW TRENDS, LOOK FOR NEW ONES. BE YOURSELF AND HAVE FUN DOING IT.” THIS IS DIVAN BADENHORST’S ADVICE FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS – AGED 25, HE IS ALREADY COSMETIC TEAM LEADER AT A LEADING AUCKLAND PHARMACY AND HAS AMBITIONS TO BECOME A BUSINESS MANAGER WITHIN THREE YEARS. Divan was born in South Africa. He moved to New Zealand with his family in 2006, and completed his secondary school studies at Botany Downs Secondary College in Auckland. “I actually struggled at school. My English was very limited at first and it was difficult to converse. I never thought of cosmetics as a child, but I am a very creative person who enjoys anything artistic and visual.” The subjects he preferred at school were classical studies, business and food technology. “Business is a key part in where I am now with my career. I completed Scholarship for classical studies and excelled in business and food. “After school, I continued part-time work at Farmers and then took an interest in beauty. “Through Clinique I did my makeup training and finished with their Master Class, becoming one of nine clinical skincare and makeup consultants in New Zealand.” Following this, Divan worked on the Clinique counter at Smith & Caughey’s where he progressed to counter manager, then he moved over to pharmacy, developing a passion for the pharmacy business – both medical and cosmetic.
Divan began as second-in-charge at the Clinique counter at Life Pharmacy 277 in Auckland’s upmarket Newmarket and then went on to managing the counter. Now, Divan is Cosmetic Team Leader – responsible for store promotions,
stock management and customer relations; he also oversees the team, who work across nine different cosmetic brands in store. In 2015 he won the overall all-round excellence award at Life Pharmacy 277. He also holds the record for the largest value sale of Clinique products. Now with the backing of the Green Cross Health Group and ServiceIQ, he is working toward becoming a business manager. “I love what Green Cross Health offers. On-the-job learning is practical and effective. I complete modules while I work and implement what I learn from them every day. I have completed my New Zealand Certificate in Retail – Level 3 and moved onto the Stellar Leadership Programme, which will result in a New Zealand Certificate in Business – Level 4. The training has helped make my job a lot easier and gaining the qualification is a bonus on my CV. “My career is a huge part of my life. I enjoy every day of it. I have a whole other family at work and we all work together to push ourselves to new limits. By the end of this year I want to be a retail manager. In three years, I want to become a business manager. Every time I achieve one goal, that’s when I make a new one.”
KEY FACTS ■ DIVAN BADENHORST IS COSMETIC TEAM LEADER AT LIFE PHARMACY 277 IN NEWMARKET, AUCKLAND. ■ THROUGH SERVICEIQ AND GREEN CROSS HEALTH GROUP, HE HAS A NEW ZEALAND CERTIFICATE IN RETAIL – LEVEL 3, AND IS CURRENTLY DOING THE STELLAR LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME WORKING TOWARD A NEW ZEALAND CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS – LEVEL 4.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on retail programmes offered through ServiceIQ, visit www.ServiceIQ.org.nz
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
RETAIL TEAM LEADER
written by ROBYN YOUSEF
21
REGISTERED NURSE 22
TAKE A LOOK AT NURSING
A FAST, SOCIAL AND REWARDING CAREER written by ROBYN YOUSEF
photograph by KATE MacPHERSON
AFTER COMPLETING HER BACHELOR OF NURSING AT SOUTHERN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, 21-YEAR-OLD ELLA SIMS IS REALLY ENJOYING HER FIRST NURSING JOB AT NELSON HOSPITAL. SHE DESCRIBES IT AS “SOCIAL, FAST PACED, TEAM ORIENTATED AND TOTALLY REWARDING.” Ella has been preparing for this career since she was about eight years old and at Mangawhai Beach Primary School. “We had to write down what we wanted to be when we were older, I had written down a nurse. I find it fascinating because I had no medical connections.” Currently living in Nelson, Ella grew up in the seaside town of Mangawhai, north of Auckland. She enjoyed her school days at Otamatea High School in Maungaturoto (“had lots of fun”) and history was a favourite subject at school. “Learning from the past and accepting change has always stuck with me. Nursing has evolved profoundly from ‘back in the days’ and will always continue to. I found the history of nursing extremely interesting.”
With Level 3 credits in statistical mathematics, English and biology, Ella went straight from secondary school to study for her three-year nursing degree. “I am very pleased I went straight into study as I feel if I had a gap year I may not have continued to study after school.” The Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) has been educating nurses for 33 years and has a long history of successful graduates. SIT’s School of Nursing interview all applicants to assess for important personal qualities such as patience, integrity, compassion, great communication skills and cultural awareness. She wholeheartedly recommends the SIT courses and says the zero fees scheme there definitely helped her make the decision to do her study in
START YOUR CAREER
@ SIT
With over 200 courses In 33 subject areas, from Certificate to Masters, SIT has the option for you. Call today or email info@sit.ac.nz
Southland. “I am now able to focus on other opportunities such as travel instead of having to pay back a student loan!” And overseas travel is on the agenda for this young nurse. Ella hopes to work overseas and possibly volunteer with the international medical humanitarian organisation Doctors Without Borders to help out in countries in need. “I am currently enjoying general medical nursing as there is so much exposure to all kinds of learning opportunities, and I believe it will provide a good foundation for my nursing career. “I love how unique the nurse–patient relationship is. I find it fulfilling to be able to develop mutual trust and provide reassurance to support them throughout their journey.”
REGISTERED NURSE
“Typical days on the ward can involve: gathering vital signs, managing or reporting any abnormal findings, administering medications, assisting with activities of daily living, providing education/collaborating with patients and collaborating with members of the multi-disciplinary team to deliver holistic care.” Ella suggests that school leavers aiming to make nursing their vocation, research the prerequisites early and work towards gaining them. “I believe the main subjects to concentrate on are English, science and mathematics. You should also talk to a career guidance advisor regarding opportunities for work experience.”
23
KEY FACTS ■ ELLA SIMS WORKS AS A REGISTERED NURSE AT NELSON HOSPITAL. ■ SHE HAS A BACHELOR OF NURSING FROM THE SOUTHERN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. ■■ ELLA SUGGESTS THOSE INTERESTED IN STUDYING NURSING FOCUS ON THE PREREQUISITE NCEA SUBJECTS AND LOOK FOR WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES.
For more information on studying Nursing through the Southern Institute of Technology, visit www.sit.ac.nz/Courses/ Nursing-Health-Science
0800 4 0 FEES www.sit.ac.nz
IMPORTANT NOTICES 24
GOT A TRADE WEEK 21–27 AUGUST
NOTICEBOARD KEEPING TRACK OF WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
It aims to raise awareness of on-the-job training and careers in New Zealand’s trades and services. It’s best to keep watch on their website for all the information-laden and exciting things you can go along to – www.gotatrade.co.nz
JOB HUNTING
These websites will help you find a job! Allied Work Force – www.awf.co.nz Trade Me Jobs – www.trademe.co.nz/jobs MyJobSpace – www.myjobspace.co.nz Student Job Search – www.sjs.co.nz Do Good Jobs – www.dogoodjobs.co.nz Work and Income – www.job-bank.workandincome.govt.nz Seek – www.seek.co.nz
SECONDARY SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS open days are a fantastic way of getting to know more about your HOLIDAYS 2017/2018 University proposed courses of study, the university itself, meet fellow students and become Term 2 holiday: 7 July–24 July 2017 Term 3 holiday: 29 Sept–16 Oct 2017 Term 4 holiday: 14 Dec–29 Jan/ 7 Feb 2018 (earliest/latest) Term 1 holiday: 13 April–30 April 2018 Information sourced from Ministry of Education, visit www.education.govt.nz
SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships are a great way of covering or assisting with your study fees. There are over 4000 scholarships available nationwide. Scholarships are offered on a range of criteria; e.g. school marks, intended area of study, ethnicity, community service, sporting talents. Talk to your careers advisor or visit www.generosity.org.nz/giv-me
familiar with the campus. If you’re choosing between several tertiary providers, you may find open days help you make your choice. The following tertiary providers have open days: Tertiary provider
Date
Website
UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO
Mon 8 May
www.otago.ac.nz
UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO
Fri 19 May
www.waikato.ac.nz
UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY
Thu 13 July
www.canterbury.ac.nz
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Fri 14 July
www.lincoln.ac.nz
MASSEY UNIVERSITY Manawatu Campus Wed 2 August
www.massey.ac.nz
MASSEY UNIVERSITY Auckland Campus
www.massey.ac.nz
MASSEY UNIVERSITY Wellington Campus Fri 1 September www.massey.ac.nz VICTORIA UNIVERSITY OF WELLINGTON Fri 1 September www.victoria.ac.nz AUT UNIVERSITY
Sat 2 September www.aut.ac.nz
UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND
Sat 2 September www.auckland.ac.nz
* Accurate at time of print. Please check provider’s websites for any changes.
CAREERS NEW ZEALAND
A fantastic resource providing expert advice and confidential, free information on all things education and employment – including choosing school subjects, enrolling in study or training and applying for jobs. Call their free advice line on 0800 222 733, free text CAREER to 434 or chat online by visiting their website at www.careers.govt.nz WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
Sat 12 August
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
You really can change the world if you care enough. – Marian Wright Edelman
ipis as dolorest quatiam illent elia quidi to conseque as exces et alis dolorest, vid veles aut volupta esecupt aecupidenis.
NCEA Examinations Thursday 9 November to Friday 1 December Cambridge Examinations June session Held 25 April–10 June November session Held 3 October–18 November
INSTITUTES OF TECHNOLOGY There are 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics situated throughout New Zealand offering a wide range of tertiary education. Visit www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-
partners/about-educationorganisations/itps-in-new-zealand
MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT
It’s always important to make sure that you are on the electoral roll and ready to take part in national and local elections. How else can you be sure that you are ready to have your say on the big issues affecting you and your family? www.elections.org.nz/voters
THE NEW ZEALAND PROJECT by Max Harris
is now available in bookshops nationwide.
Volunteering can provide you with opportunities to develop your skills in new and interesting ways as well as providing valuable real-world experiences – all important attributes to your CV when applying for your first job! For more information, visit: www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/ volunteers/finding-volunteer-roles/
Theodore Roosevelt
for more information on courses and semester dates for 2017/18.
FEELING DOWN?
If you are about to leave school and you’re looking at tertiary study, there’s going to be a lot to think about. If it’s anything to do with financial support while you’re studying, StudyLink can help and you need to apply by Friday 15 December 2017.. www.studylink.govt.nz
Leaving school is one of the most major transitions we undertake in our lives, and it’s a time when anxiety, worry and depression can surface. www.thelowdown.co.nz is full of ideas and people quatiam who can illent help you ipis as dolorest elia quidi to conseque as exces et alis get unstuck and get to a better place. dolorest, vid veles aut volupta Free text to 5626 Need to talk? esecupt aecupidenis.
25
VOLUNTEERING
Each time we face our fear, we gain strength, courage and confidence in the doing.
STUDENT LOANS
IMPORTANT NOTICES
EXAM DATES
A free guide to study and career options for
r A fre s fo high school students Years 11-13 e tion seco guide to r op 10-13 May 2017 | issue # 9 ndary stud aree scho y and nd c Years ol st c dy a udents u uden areer o Octo st Learn from The o st E #7 ber ts Ye ption only live t’s 2016 yesterday, a ide t school 16 | ISSU u w to h ars 1 s for | IS g ay do gr e SUE ‘w r ry GUST 20 forwtoday, hope 0-13 #8 eat for or A fre conda AU k is The se wtomorrow. you ha to lo
ion?’ pass
ELLA SIMS | REGISTERED NURSE
NA
CH | BUT
EMP
ALA
R
PPE
T SKI L BOA
SSE
NE
HO
ABR
AHAM
| MU
Jo
bs – Albert Einstein
CAI TLIN
ER
SON
important is not t yothingve u do – Stevquestioning. to stop . e
MATT BARHAM | ELECTRONICS ENGINEER
t’s ‘wha r you ?’ re futu
A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. ENC
SCI
NG
LDI
BLE
H NO
BET
| BUI
– Sir Winston Churchill
ALL EN GRE GOR Y | FAR M TEC HNI CIA N
SAM HODSELL | DAIRY FARMER
LY | L KEL HAE MIC
G KIN T BAN MEN EST E, INV IAT OC ASS
ch ‘rea e th for s’ star
HOL LING S | LAW
– JUD
GES ’ CLE RK
Look up at the st not ars and do your wn at – Step feet. hen
T
DEN
E STU
MORGA
N LOU
AN
21– 27 August
YN A-L
AN MO
visit . . . www.gotatrade.co.nz SEL E DIE TIC REN | APP
TE
ATA
WH
IDE E GU ELL IE McK TUR VEN NIG HT | | AD EAR LY CHI LDH OOD EDU
NIC HA MEC
CAT ION ALE
X SMI
TH |
ELIZA McCARTNEY | ATHLETE – TRACK & FIELD
AUT OMOTI
VE TEC MICHAEL BENNETT | HVAC APPRENTICE
NZ HOOL .NZ WWW LEAVINGS C INGSC L.CO LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ .LEAVI LEAV INGSCHOO NGSC HOOLNZ WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ HOOL .CO.NZ .LEAV WWW RY CO
ON MPS THO
| QUA
NTI
TY
OLIVIA
This year’s
GOT A TRADE WEEK
GHN
SUR VEY OR
Hawk ing
MONIQUE SOUTHEY | POLICE OFFICER
HNI CIA N APP REN TIC E
HILL
| AGR ISC IEN CE (EQ
UIN E)
It seem alway s until s impossib it le – Nelso ’s done . n Ma nd ela
These magazines and past issues can be read online at www.leavingschool.co.nz
VOCATIONAL GET SET FOR NZ CAREERS EXPO 2017 PATHWAYS CHRISTCHURCH Horncastle Area 11 to 13 MAY AUCKLAND ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane 25 to 27 MAY HAMILTON Claudelands Event Centre 11 to 12 JUNE WELLINGTON TSB Arena, Queens Wharf 16 to 17 JUNE Admission to the Expo is free for all visitors. Visit their website www.careersexpo.org.nz
Throughout this magazine, each case study has been colour coded to its Vocational Pathway. In some instances, multiple colours are used to show that the skills you learn can be applied across multiple careers and pathways, throughout your lifetime. Visit www.youthguarantee.net.nz/ vocational-pathways to learn more.
LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
45%
FINANCIAL TIPS
25%
50%
50% LOW PRICES
26
FINANCIAL FALSEHOODS
ARE YOU TELLING YOURSELF PORKIES? written by DIANA CLEMENT
illustration by STUDIOSTOKS
MAKING ENDS MEET WHILE YOU’RE STUDYING IS TOUGH. BUT THE FINANCIAL PORKIES WE TELL OURSELVES MAKE IT EVEN HARDER TO BALANCE THE BOOKS. Being honest with yourself and avoiding these lies can make your income go a whole lot further, and make your life easier. THE “I NEED THIS” PORKIE. Most of the things we think we need are really wants. You don’t need an iPhone or a coffee, or anything sold by upmarket fashion and tech retailers, or just about any online retailer. Probably half of what’s in your supermarket trolley will be wants, not needs. Your real needs are basic food, a roof over your head, tuition fees, bus fares and a change or two of clothes and shoes. If you understand this, then it’s okay to have small treats. Just don’t fool yourself by calling them needs. THE “A CAR IS A NECESSITY” PORKIE. Plenty of students live without a car. Cars are a frightening drain on your income. It’s not only the cost of petrol, oil, transmission fluid, wiper blades and other consumables – every year you’ll pay hundreds of dollars for WoFs, registration and insurance. Cars, especially older ones, need repairs sooner or later. If you can delay the purchase of one until you’re working in a fulltime job you will come out of study thousands of dollars less in debt. Buy a bicycle instead. WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
KEY FACTS
■ BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF AND AVOID FINANCIAL FALSEHOOD. ■ LEARN GOOD FINANCIAL HABITS NOW, AND YOU’LL BENEFIT FROM THESE FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.
THE “MY STUDENT LOAN IS ‘FREE MONEY’” PORKIE. Find someone 10 years older than yourself and ask them if they still think their student loan was free money. It has to be paid back and that will hit hard in your 20s and 30s. There will be better things you want to do with your money than pay for the sins of your student life. THE “IT’S ONLY $5” PORKIE. It’s really important to remember that every cent you spend now will have to be paid back later and that is going to hurt. Go back through your bank statements and add up those “only $5”
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
or “only $20” purchases. The total will be a lot more than you think. THE “OVERDRAFTS AND CREDIT CARD LIMITS ARE ‘MY MONEY’ ” PORKIE. The sooner you understand that your overdraft and credit card limits are debt that can spiral out of control, the better. This isn’t money you have earned. You’ll be borrowing against your future and will regret it when tomorrow comes along. THE “MY FRIENDS ARE DOING IT, SO SHOULD I ” PORKIE. You aren’t your friends. Succumbing to peer pressure will make you poor. Just don’t do it. Take the overseas holiday or buy the iPhone when you’ve got a fulltime job and an income to match the lifestyle. Finally, it’s human nature to think, “MY SITUATION IS DIFFERENT” or “I REALLY DO NEED THIS” The reality is that if you can learn to be honest with yourself you’ll find it easier to survive financially while studying. You’ll also learn good financial habits and putting them into action will benefit you for the rest of your life.
images courtesy of ANTONY VAVIA
HUNT DOWN YOUR GOALS
FOCUSED ON MARINE BIOLOGY IN THE PACIFIC ANTONY VAVIA DIDN’T KNOW WHAT MARINE BIOLOGY WAS WHEN HIS DAD SUGGESTED IT AS A POSSIBLE CAREER OPTION. “I HAD TO GOOGLE IT,” HE REMEMBERS. “AT THAT POINT I REALISED THAT ‘YEAH, I COULD TOTALLY GET INTO THAT’… SO I GOT INTO IT!”
SCIENCE HONOURS STUDENT
written by SARA CARBERY
27
Since making that discovery, at the end of his intermediate schooling, Antony has followed a path from Onehunga High School to AUT, where he completed a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology, last year. This year sees him back on campus, studying for a Bachelor of Science (Honours). “I’ve decided to continue studying because that’s what I need to do to hunt my goals down.” One of those goals is to one day run a sustainable seaweed aquaculture company in the Pacific. “It would be awesome to help improve the health of the marine environment, but also provide a healthy and manageable source of sustenance to the world, while benefiting the Pacific Islands economically.” He’s also inspired by the work of broadcaster and naturalist Sir David Attenborough.
“I’d love for my career to be doing what I love, exploring the beauties of the ocean and sharing that with the world.” Having received a scholarship from AUT for his first year of study, the Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Award for STEM-related subjects, as well as the Toloa Scholarship from the Ministry of Pacific People, Antony is well placed to offer advice on scholarships. “Cut out the negative thoughts like, ‘I’m probably not going to get it anyway,’ and just apply if you meet the requirements, because you never know – you might just be that student the sponsors are looking for!” All the subjects Antony took in Years 12 and 13 – biology, physics, chemistry, statistics and English – have proved useful for marine biology. “Learning all the basic scientific fields helped me to understand each of them individually. One of
the biggest parts of science is knowing how to communicate your results to other people. That’s where statistics and English proved useful!” What struck Antony (21) most about university study, compared to school, was the “total independence” he had to complete his work. “But along with that independence was a large amount of responsibility for my own study so I became really self-driven.” Despite this independent learning, Antony thrived on meeting new people and sharing his work with his classmates. “Avoid only thinking of the end result of studying,” he advises. “The magic happens throughout the process too. What makes it better is that you won’t be doing it alone – as you tailor your own path, you’ll be able to share it with others. It’s up to you to make it worth sharing!”
KEY FACTS ■ ANTONY VAVIA HAS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MARINE BIOLOGY FROM AUT. ■ HE IS CURRENTLY STUDYING TOWARDS HIS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS). ■ ANTONY’S SUBJECTS FOR YEARS 12 AND 13 WERE BIOLOGY, PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY, STATISTICS AND ENGLISH.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on studying Science through AUT, visit www.aut.ac.nz/sciences
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
SHAREMILKER
written by SARA CARBERY
28
photograph by MEGAN GRAHAM
BUILDING WEALTH VIA DAIRYING VARIETY, FREEDOM AND ANIMALS
SAM HODSELL HAS FARMED ANIMALS FOR ALMOST AS LONG AS HE CAN REMEMBER, HAND-REARING CALVES AND LAMBS AS A YOUNGSTER GROWING UP ON THE FAMILY FARM IN SOUTHLAND. These days the 24-year-old is the proud owner of 280 cows, which he estimates are worth around $450,000. Sam’s herd numbers have increased tenfold in the past two years, the result of prudent buying and selling. “Dairying is a great way to build your wealth,” he says. This is just one of the many things Sam enjoys about his chosen industry. Others include the career progression pathway that exists via sharemilking, the fact you can work your way up to eventually owning your own farm, and the attitude of the older, more experienced farmers. “It’s not a competitive industry. There’s a lot of mentoring and industry sharing.” With a three-year Bachelor of Agriculture from Lincoln University under his belt, Sam travelled around Europe with a friend for six weeks in 2013, staying on farms in Germany, France, England, Scotland and Ireland. “It really opens your mind, and makes you realise how lucky we are back here. In Europe, land’s not traded the way it is here, there are no sharemilkers. It changes your mindset a lot.” Sam is a lower order sharemilker on his parents’ farm. He provides labour, machinery and some of the cows, and receives a percentage share of the income. His goal is to be a 50:50 sharemilker in five years’ time. In the
meantime, he plans to take a couple of years off to gain experience, working a number of short-term contracts, including a cattle muster in Australia.
Some of Sam’s classmates from Lincoln have also become farmers. Others now work as rural bank managers, farm consultants,
fertiliser reps, agronomists and irrigation specialists. Sam took agriculture as a subject at Southland Boys’ High School, along with biology, geography, statistics, and PE in Year 13. In hindsight, metalwork and woodwork would have been helpful, he says. So what does Sam enjoy most about farming? “The variety of jobs, working with animals, the freedom I have to make decisions and change things on the farm, and the fact that as a dairy farmer you can track your performance every day.” Surprisingly it’s not the early starts that bother him, “although they do affect your social life a bit”, he says, “It’s the weeks of rain New Zealand sometimes cops that can make farming challenging”. Sam’s advice to anyone interested in farming is: “Go to uni, even if you just do a diploma. You’ll meet likeminded people who you’ll have with you for support for the rest of your life. And spend some time working on a farm first to see if you enjoy it.”
THE 24-YEAR-OLD IS THE PROUD OWNER OF 280 COWS, WHICH HE ESTIMATES ARE WORTH AROUND $450,000. SAM’S HERD NUMBERS HAVE INCREASED TENFOLD IN THE PAST TWO YEARS, THE RESULT OF PRUDENT BUYING AND SELLING. “Dairying is a great way to build
your wealth,” he says.
KEY FACTS ■ SAM HODSELL HAS A BACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE FROM LINCOLN UNIVERSITY. ■ HE WORKS AS A LOWER ORDER SHAREMILKER, AND AIMS TO BECOME A 50:50 SHAREMILKER WITHIN FIVE YEARS. ■ SAM TOOK AGRICULTURE, BIOLOGY, GEOGRAPHY, STATISTICS AND PE IN YEAR 13. HE SAYS THAT METALWORK AND WOODWORK WOULD HAVE BEEN USEFUL SUBJECTS TO HAVE TAKEN. WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on the career options available in agriculture, visit www.dairynz.co.nz/careers or www.growingnz.org.nz
photograph by STEVE SELWOOD
PLUMBING INDUSTRY SEEKING WORKERS
MANY CAREER PROSPECTS
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
written by SARA CARBERY
29
ALTHOUGH HE LISTS HIS ULTIMATE JOBS AS CHOCOLATE TASTER AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLER, 28-YEAR-OLD JONATHAN BURROWS IS THRIVING IN HIS ROLE AS SALES REPRESENTATIVE WITH PLUMBING WORLD IN CHRISTCHURCH. His job involves building and maintaining relationships with key customers and suppliers, identifying and signing new clients, making presentations to customers and helping with specifications for key projects. Jonathan got a taste for sales while studying for a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Canterbury. “I decided I wanted to be in sales during my first year at university while working at the local supermarket. Talking with the sales reps for various companies, they sounded like quite interesting roles.” After completing his degree and travelling and working overseas for two years, Jonathan returned to Christchurch and to Plumbing World (he worked there as a forklift driver while at university). He started working on the trade counter learning about the products and how the company operates. After a while he moved into the commercial office, where he produced quotes, processed orders and scheduled jobs. “A more challenging role with more customer interaction, a company vehicle and the chance to put my studies to use,” was what attracted Jonathan to the role of Sales Representative when the opportunity arose. Jonathan grew up in Christchurch, where he attended Lincoln High School. He left school at the end of Year 13, having achieved NCEA Level 3 in maths with calculus, maths with statistics, English, accounting and economics.
“I found English and maths with statistics to be the most helpful subjects, helping with writing reports for management and emails with clients and suppliers. Economics has become more useful and interesting as I am getting older and more involved in the economy (having to be an adult).” Jonathan says career prospects in the plumbing industry are looking good. “Everyone is looking for skilled staff in the plumbing industry at the moment. Auckland is the busiest with new housing and commercial projects. If you like the hands-on side then I would recommend an apprenticeship or if you like the sales and product side, then working for a merchant or supplier would be your best bet.” He suggests talking to your local plumbing merchant to see if there are any roles going that you might like, or contacting your local institute of technology to ask about apprenticeships. “You don’t need previous experience in the industry or selling, just a willing attitude and ability to learn.” As far as lessons learnt go, Jonathan’s advice is, “Don’t assume anything, and the only silly questions are the ones you don’t ask. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you don’t understand something.”
KEY FACTS ■ JONATHAN BURROWS HAS A BACHELOR OF COMMERCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY. ■ HE HAS NCEA LEVEL 3 IN MATHS WITH CALCULUS, MATHS WITH STATISTICS, ENGLISH, ACCOUNTING AND ECONOMICS. ■ JONATHAN WORKS AS A SALES REPRESENTATIVE WITH PLUMBING WORLD IN CHRISTCHURCH.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on career opportunities with Plumbing World, visit www.plumbingworld.co.nz
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
! t i f r u o y find
JOB APPLICATION CHECKLIST
Not sure what you want to study? We’ll help you
BEFORE SUBMITTING A JOB APPLICATION...
30
by JULIA CAPON
THE 13 THINGS YOU MUST DO
THERE ARE SOME SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO YOUR JOB APPLICATION THAT WILL MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO YOUR SUCCESS, BUT ALL TOO OFTEN THEY ARE EASILY FORGOTTEN. Here’s a checklist to think about before clicking send! HAVE YOU TRIPLE-CHECKED YOUR SPELLING? And then checked it 10 more times? Or had someone else look over it? In their first cut, employers are not looking for a reason to employ you, they are looking for a reason to eliminate you. Bad spelling and grammar are reasons to stop an application dead in its tracks. HAVE YOU RESEARCHED THE ORGANISATION? You should show in your cover letter that you know what they are about, what they are trying to achieve and how you can help them do this. HAVE YOU FOUND OUT WHO TO ADDRESS YOUR COVER LETTER TO? “Dear Sir/Madam” doesn’t quite cut it. It shows you haven’t done your research. HAVE YOU CONDENSED YOUR CV TO TWO PAGES? In New Zealand, long CVs are not generally a good idea. Employers don’t want to read an essay.
Our online quiz helps guide you by understanding what really interests you. Wintec.ac.nz/findyourfit
HAVE YOU ENSURED YOUR COVER LETTER IS NO MORE THAN THREE-QUARTERS OF A PAGE LONG? It is hard to be concise, but it is important, so put the time in.
HAVE YOU ADDRESSED EVERYTHING THEY MENTIONED IN THE JOB AD/DESCRIPTION AND RELATED YOUR EXPERIENCE TO IT? This shows you are clear about what they want and how you can provide what they need. create your world www.wintec.ac.nz
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
31
WHAT’S YOUR DIGITAL FOOTPRINT LIKE? If you were looking to hire someone and had the internet at your fingertips, where would you look for a background check? Make sure your settings for Facebook and Twitter are private, and remove pictures that aren’t appropriate. HAVE YOU ADDED YOUR SIGNATURE OR A DIGITAL SIGNATURE TO YOUR COVER LETTER? This detail does matter to some people. HAVE YOU APPLIED THE WAY THEY ASKED YOU TO? If they have an application form on their website, fill it out. Read the fine print and make sure you are submitting it in the format they want. PDF IT That formatting you did on your CV won’t matter if they don’t have the same font or software. Make sure you convert your CV and cover letter to PDF. LASTLY, DID YOU ATTACH YOUR CV AND COVER LETTER? Yes, seems obvious, but in the heat of the moment think before you push send on that email. Best of luck with the job hunt!
Do Good Jobs is New Zealand’s #1 ethical jobs board. It helps connect good people with jobs and volunteering opportunities at great organisations to make more good stuff happen, visit www.dogoodjobs.co.nz LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
Get the Whitecliffe Edge Whitecliffe is an award-winning arts and design, tertiary education specialist
FINE ARTS FASHION DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGN PHOTO MEDIA
REGISTER 2017 Open Days OUT-OF-TOWNERS CERTIFICATE programmes PHOTO MEDIA FINE ARTS FASHION DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGN
whitecliffe.ac.nz
Wednesday 31 May Tuesday 20 June Wednesday 9 August Thursday 10 August Wednesday 16 August Thursday 17 August
ANTHONY MAUINATU
IS YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS APPROPRIATE? reddragon@hotmail.com doesn’t look professional. Even though it’s the email account you might use all the time, set up a new one with your real name and set up a redirect if needed.
JOB APPLICATION CHECKLIST
DO YOUR REFEREES KNOW YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A JOB? It’s polite and professional to ask if they are willing to be your referees first. It also gives them more time to think about how wonderful you are before they get the call!
POLICE OFFICER
written by SARA CARBERY
32
photograph by ALAN STEVENS
PUTTING IT ALL ON THE LINE RESPONDING TO 111
MONIQUE SOUTHEY VIVIDLY REMEMBERS THE DAY SHE DISCOVERED WHAT SHE WANTED TO BE WHEN SHE GREW UP. “WHEN I WAS SEVEN YEARS OLD, A POLICEMAN CAME TO MY SCHOOL TO TALK TO US ABOUT SAFETY. I REMEMBER LOOKING UP AT HIM AND THINKING, ‘THAT’S WHAT I WANT TO BE WHEN I GET OLDER’.” Nineteen years on, Monique is a frontline Police Officer in her hometown of Henderson, West Auckland. “We are more than likely the first on scene to incidents we get called to,” she explains. “Jobs we attend include family violence incidents, jobs involving young people or people who suffer from mental illness, car crashes, fires and even ducklings on the road (actually).” Monique says her work involves thinking on her feet, having an open mind about what she may be walking into, professionalism, respect and compassion. She loves that no two days are the same, that she is constantly being challenged, and that she gets to help others and put a smile on people’s faces every day. Monique is also enthusiastic about the career prospects that exist within the Police.
“There are over 30 different career paths you can take within the NZ Police. These include Dog Squad, Youth Aid, Dive Squad, Road Policing, Armed Offenders, Search and Rescue and many, many more.” She says the greatest challenges are separating work and home life, and adjusting to shift work. After graduating from Henderson High School at the end of Year 12, with English, maths, computer skills, Te Reo Māori, physical education and history, Monique spent 18 weeks at the Royal New Zealand Police College in Wellington. To be accepted as a recruit, she needed to have a clean criminal record, a full driver licence and New Zealand citizenship. She also had to pass two physical tests and a typing test, among others.
Monique says English and maths were helpful subjects, as one of the entry tests involves verbal and numerical reasoning. History and Te Reo Māori were also useful as one of the core values of the NZ Police is commitment to Māori and the Treaty of Waitangi. Computer skills was very beneficial as it helped her pass the typing test, and helps with the day-to-day paperwork at the end of each shift. “There is a lot!” Monique’s advice to anyone considering a career in the Police is to make good choices. “You can’t join the Police with a bad record and silly childhood mistakes may come back to haunt you.” Also, “Get involved with your community in any way you can, like sports coaching or even volunteer work. And stay fit.” MONIQUE IS ALSO ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT THE CAREER PROSPECTS THAT EXIST WITHIN THE POLICE. “THERE ARE OVER 30 DIFFERENT CAREER PATHS YOU CAN TAKE WITHIN THE NEW ZEALAND POLICE. THESE INCLUDE DOG SQUAD, YOUTH AID, DIVE SQUAD, ROAD POLICING, ARMED OFFENDERS, SEARCH AND RESCUE AND MANY, MANY MORE.”
KEY FACTS ■ MONIQUE SOUTHEY IS A FRONTLINE POLICE OFFICER IN HENDERSON, WEST AUCKLAND. ■ FOR NCEA LEVEL 2, SHE TOOK ENGLISH, MATHS, COMPUTER SKILLS, TE REO MĀORI, PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HISTORY. ■ MONIQUE TRAINED AND STUDIED FOR 18 WEEKS AT THE ROYAL NEW ZEALAND POLICE COLLEGE IN WELLINGTON. WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on a career with New Zealand Police, visit www.newcops.co.nz
FUTURE OF WORK 33
EXAMINING THE FUTURE JOB MARKET
PREPARING FOR YOUR CAREER written by DIANA CLEMENT
illustration by STUDIOSTOKS
YOU KNOW WHAT CAREER YOU WANT. BUT, WILL YOU BE DOING THAT FOR YOUR ENTIRE WORKING LIFE? PROBABLY NOT. CAREERS ARE CHANGING SO FAST THAT YOU COULD HAVE SEVERAL IN YOUR LIFETIME. IT’S A GOOD IDEA TO THINK ABOUT THIS WHEN CHOOSING WHAT TO STUDY OR WHERE TO WORK. Technological disruption is already killing some jobs and creating others. Why employ an accountant in New Zealand when a computer can do much of the work, or a New Zealand-based teleworker when one in the Philippines or India costs less? On the other hand, you might find you can use 2 your skills working as something that doesn’t even exist right now – such as a body-part maker or domestic robot repairer, according to futurist Morris Miselowski. It’s no more far-fetched than telling a child in the late 1970s that they’d grow up to study and work in social media or nanotechnology. These fields simply didn’t exist back then.
It brings the freedom to work when, where and how you want. What’s more it provides an opportunity to earn more, keep your CV alive, expand your professional networks and gain 1 in a range of positions and industries. experience
Here’s what you need to know:
BE FLEXIBLE. Jobs as we know 1 them are disappearing and work is becoming more project based. Instead of working 9 am to 5 pm, workers of the future will offer GET CREATIVE. Repetitive jobs can their services 31 for the period of time the company 2 3 be outsourced to lower wage economies. requires, according to Miselowski and others 2 Kiwis who3boost their creativity will have more who study the future of work. interesting and fulfilling jobs.
1
4 2
EMBRACE 3 CONTRACTING.
Contracting is scary for people who desire job security. On the other hand, it can be an4alternative to relentless hours of desk work, number crunching and keyboard tapping.
4
REBRAND YOURSELF. Be ready to change directions if your career looks like it’s about to end up on the scrapheap. Learn about transferrable skills and use yours to duck and dive between roles.
4
KEY FACTS ■ YOU ARE UNLIKELY TO WORK IN THE SAME CAREER YOUR ENTIRE WORKING LIFE.
■ NEW CAREERS AND INDUSTRIES ARE BEING CREATED AS TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES, YOUR JOB IN 20 YEARS’ TIME MIGHT NOT EVEN EXIST RIGHT NOW.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
COPING STRATEGIES 34
MAINTAINING PERSPECTIVE
SUCCESSFULLY MANAGING TIMES OF STRESS written by DR MELANIE WOODFIELD
illustration by STUDIOSTOKS
STRESSED OUT AS YOU FINISH SCHOOL AND THINK ABOUT THE NEXT STEP? YOU’RE NOT ALONE. BIG LIFE TRANSITIONS SUCH AS LEAVING SCHOOL CAN BE REALLY UNSETTLING. Here are a few tips to help you get through. It’s common to have a honeymoon period of a few weeks or months where you feel you’re on top of the world, and then a dip in your mood when the novelty wears off. This mood change is not necessarily a sign that you’ve made the wrong decision – give yourself time to adjust. Make use of the support that’s out there. If you’re feeling stressed or down, The Lowdown (www.thelowdown.co.nz) is a New Zealand website packed with videos, tips, techniques and support to get you back on track. SPARX is also well worth a look (www.sparx.org.nz). It’s a carefully crafted “serious” computer game where you learn skills to manage stress while having fun. There are also pointers for how to get more support if you need it.
If you’re feeling stressed or down, ( The Lowdown (www.thelowdown.co.nz) is a New Zealand website packed with videos, tips, techniques and support to get you back on track. Most solutions start with good self-care. When we’re stressed, the basics often go out the window; things like eating foods that fuel us, getting a little exercise each day, and spending time doing things that bring us joy. Watch your caffeine intake, keep screens to a minimum late at night, and try to wake up around the same time each day (yes, even on weekends). Over time you’ll notice an improvement in your sleep, and most things feel more do-able with enough sleep.
Try some relaxation techniques. An evidence-based technique is progressive muscle relaxation, this involves slowly and systematically tensing and relaxing each muscle group in your body. Diaphragmatic breathing is also very effective, and involves breathing deeply and slowly from your belly, rather than shallow, fast breaths from your chest. Both of these techniques should be practiced over and over when you’re calm so they’re more likely to be effective when you feel the stress coming. There’s a lot of evidence that mindfulness works to reduce stress. This means being fully present in the moment – the opposite of doing something mindlessly. There are lots of different techniques available online or through courses in your city, so try a few and find one that fits. Finally, it’s easier said than done, but try to see the bigger picture. When a situation is stressful or distressing, we tend to get tunnel vision and can see nothing but the challenge we’re facing. It’s like Google Earth – when we’re zoomed in, we see the close-up view, but lose the overall perspective. It’s hard to make decisions without the full picture. So it may be worthwhile trying a technique or two to start you on the journey of pulling back, seeing things more clearly and rationally, and feeling less stressed.
KEY FACTS ■ LEAVING SCHOOL IS ONE OF THE FIRST MAJOR LIFE TRANSITIONS MANY PEOPLE FACE. ■ CHANGE CAN BE UNSETTLING, EVEN IF IT’S GOOD CHANGE. ■ READ THROUGH THE TIPS AND STRATEGIES PROVIDED TO HELP YOU ADJUST TO THIS NEW PHASE.
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
Dr Melanie Woodfield is a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist in Auckland.
photograph by MARTIN HUNTER
HIGH-SPEED AUTOMOTIVES ON TRACK TO A DYNAMIC, FAST CAREER
“It’s exactly the job I wanted. I’m constantly exposed to high-end motorsport.” Matt Barham
ELECTRONICS ENGINEER
written by SARA CARBERY
35
MATT BARHAM HAS FOUND HIS DREAM JOB WORKING AS AN ELECTRONICS ENGINEER FOR RODIN CARS, DEVELOPING A RANGE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE TRACK CARS. “IT’S EXACTLY THE JOB I WANTED,” HE SAYS. “I’M CONSTANTLY EXPOSED TO HIGH-END MOTORSPORT AND BECAUSE WHAT WE’RE DOING IS STATE-OF-THE-ART THERE IS A LOT OF ON-THE-SPOT PROBLEM SOLVING. IT’S ALMOST LIKE THE NEXT STEP-UP FROM FORMULA SAE.” Formula SAE is a global competition that tasks students with designing, fabricating, developing and then racing a formula-style single-seater race car. Matt took part in the competition while studying engineering at the University of Canterbury. As lead electrical engineer, it was Matt’s job to design the high voltage battery pack, the electric powertrain, emergency safety circuits and vehicle dynamics software for the first 4WD electric car designed in New Zealand. “It was a lot of work – I averaged about 100 hours a week – but it was worth it.” Matt found his way into engineering via New Plymouth Boys’ High School where he took calculus, statistics, chemistry, physics and Japanese in Year 13. “Calculus and physics are a must for any discipline of engineering and statistics was quite useful for knowing how to process data etc.” Although electronics wasn’t an option at his school for Year 13, Matt took it in Years 9 through to 12, giving him good grounding in electrical engineering. “Year 11 and 12 in particular had a number of projects, which was in essence entry-level engineering.”
Matt (24) says engineering seemed the right fit for him. “I like problem solving that really challenges me. The aspect that you get to design and build solutions was a big factor. It’s a good balance between both technical and non-technical skills. It’s not all about designing, but dealing with people too, so it covers everything.” Matt’s final year Bachelor of Engineering project was converting a 4WD diesel farm vehicle to be fully electric. “It made me realise that I wanted a career in automotive engineering so I decided to do a masters with the University of Canterbury Motorsport to improve my chances of getting into the industry.” His advice to anyone thinking of becoming an electrical engineer is make sure you find the right balance between course work and extra-curricular activities. “Get involved with something like Formula SAE, which will give you a chance to practice what you learn in class and learn new skills you wouldn’t get the opportunity to otherwise. “From my experience, it’s not all about the grades. I’ve worked with a lot of students who have excellent grades but lacking real-world skills. Focus on passing to the best of your ability and don’t let the expectations of others affect you.”
KEY FACTS ■ MATT BARHAM IS AN ELECTRONICS ENGINEER FOR RODIN CARS, WHERE HE WORKS DEVELOPING A RANGE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE TRACK CARS. ■ MATT HAS A BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING WITH HONOURS, FOLLOWED BY A MASTER OF ENGINEERING (ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING), BOTH FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY. ■ HE FOUND STATISTICS, CALCULUS, PHYSICS AND ELECTRONICS HELPFUL NCEA SUBJECTS FOR HIS ENGINEERING STUDIES. LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on studying Engineering through the University of Canterbury, visit www.canterbury.ac.nz/ engineering
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
SPORT AND RECREATION 36
SPORT AND RECREATION MENTORING THROUGH SPORT written by PETER WHITE
photograph by CYNTHIA QUI
CAM ANDREWS NEVER THOUGHT HE WOULD END UP WORKING FULLTIME WITH DISENGAGED YOUTH FOR SPORT BAY OF PLENTY IN TAURANGA. But the 23-year-old is proud to be making a difference in his role as Youth Engagement Advisor. He liaises with government agencies, education providers and the Department of Corrections to find opportunities for young adults who need a helping hand. Cam spent four years at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology (formerly Bay of Plenty Polytechnic) graduating with a Certificate of Fitness – Level 4 and a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation. After moving to Tauranga to follow his rugby dream, he began at polytech with the goal of becoming a personal trainer. But his eyes were opened to the variety of career options that come from a qualification in sport and recreation. “I saw so many more avenues rather than just being in a gym and telling someone how to do
“I DO A LOT OF INDIVIDUAL MENTORING. EACH YOUTH IS DIFFERENT AND NEED DIFFERENT GOALS AND THINGS AND WE USE SPORT AND RECREATION AS THE VEHICLE.” — Cam Andrews
a push-up,” Cam says. “In my second year we had to do 60 hours of work placement and Paul Pou [Cam’s manager at Sport BOP] was my rugby coach then so I started working with him. “From day one watching Paul and how he does things interacting with the youth was something I thought I could do. In year three I had to do 300
hours of work experience so I did more with him and then got a fulltime role. “I do a lot of individual mentoring. Each youth is different and need different goals and things and we use sport and recreation as the vehicle.” Cam gets a real kick out of seeing positive changes in a short time in the people he works with. He really does love every minute of his job. “A lot of them are not sporting or have even touched a rugby or soccer ball, so they get excited about learning new skills. I see huge changes. You see someone who is real high on the social anxiety end and socially awkward that will not make eye contact and not talk to a person. Then five or six weeks later he is taking the mickey out of myself and Paul and laughing with us. It is awesome.”
SPORT AND RECREATION 37
CAM (CENTRE) IN HIS ROLE AS YOUTH ENGAGEMENT ADVISOR FOR SPORT BOP, WHERE SPORT AND RECREATION ARE USED AS THE VEHICLE TO HELP DISENGAGED YOUTH.
“We have had people thank us for saving their life. You don’t realise you have made that much of an impact on someone.” Cam attended Taupo-nui-a-Tia College. In Year 13 he took sport and outdoor education,
maths, English, metalwork, woodwork and PE. “Sports and mechanics, the hands-on things were my passion then.” Cam’s advice to school leavers is to consider sport and recreation as a career, as it has played
such a massive role in his getting to where he is now. “If you like helping people then this is for you. You can go into what I do or gyms, event management and the nutrition side offers huge options.”
KEY FACTS ■ CAM ANDREWS HAS A CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS – LEVEL 4 AND A BACHELOR OF SPORT AND RECREATION FROM TOI OHOMAI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. ■ THESE PROGRAMMES ARE AVAILABLE AT BOTH THEIR TAURANGA AND ROTORUA CAMPUSES. ■■ CAM WORKS AS A YOUTH ENGAGEMENT ADVISOR WITH SPORT BAY OF PLENTY IN TAURANGA.
Career options that are a cut above
Come
Farming and Animals
Transport
Manufacturing
Trades and Services
Food Science and Technology
Carve it up @AFFCO
WAVE23645
Administration and Office Support
Sales/Consumer Products
For more information on studying Sport and Recreation through Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, visit www.toiohomai.ac.nz
employment@affco.co.nz
I www.affco.co.nz
APPRENTICE: MECHANICAL SERVICES 38
written by SARA CARBERY
photograph by STEVE SELWOOD
TRADE APPRENTICESHIP
HVAC: AN INDUSTRY OF STRONG GROWTH MICHAEL BENNETT HAS GOOD ADVICE FOR ANYONE THINKING OF DOING A TRADE APPRENTICESHIP. “ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY, AND YOUR CAREER WON'T BE EITHER.” He advises apprentices to hang in there if the going gets tough. “When you start in a trade, it’s tough because everyone knows what they’re doing and you’re the newbie who doesn’t know the ways. It’s at this point that you have to stick with it and not quit because in less than a few months, you just get the hang of it and that’s when the learning really starts to happen.” The 22-year-old is five months away from completing a New Zealand Certificate in Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (Mechanical Services). With this qualification under his belt,
Michael will be able to install, integrate, pre-commission and maintain heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Typical projects for HVAC or mechanical building services engineers range from ventilation and air-conditioning engineering (fabricating, installing and maintaining systems in office buildings, hospitals and factories), through to refrigeration engineering in warehouses, ships, containers and trucks. While still a relatively small industry in New Zealand, HVAC is experiencing strong growth.
“When you start in a trade, it’s tough because everyone knows what they’re doing and you’re the newbie who doesn’t know the ways. It’s at this point that you have to stick with it and not quit because in less than a few months, you just get the hang of it and that’s when the learning really starts.”
Michael is currently working with Gavin Lowe Energy in his hometown of Christchurch. Working as part of a team, he installs HVAC solutions, such as heat pumps, underfloor heating systems, heat-pump pool heaters and ventilation systems in homes and commercial buildings. Michael says the favourite part of the job is “the banter with the co-workers, and the delight of seeing a good finished product from a difficult job”. Other drawcards include the steady income a career in trade offers, and the fact it opens up opportunities to work all around the globe. To achieve a New Zealand Certificate in HVAC through ATNZ, three years of part-time compulsory coursework is required alongside on-the-job training. An old boy of Aranui High School, Michael says physics has been the most useful school subject, the area of thermodynamics in particular. ATNZ recommends interested applicants aim to have achieved NCEA Level 2 in maths and English. Beneficial personal attributes include being capable at precision work, having good literacy and numeracy skills, excellent organisational skills, time management and strong work ethic. It’s also useful to have experience in making or fixing things, working with machinery and with computers. After completing his studies in September, Michael plans to go for his gas licensing and electrical ticket, and perhaps explore the field of HVAC further.
KEY FACTS ■ MICHAEL BENNETT IS CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARD A NEW ZEALAND CERTIFICATE IN HEATING, VENTILATING AND AIR CONDITIONING (MECHANICAL SERVICES). ■ HE IS DOING THIS THROUGH ATNZ AND HAS HAD TO DO THREE YEARS OF PART-TIME COMPULSORY COURSEWORK ALONGSIDE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING. ■ ATNZ RECOMMENDS HAVING ACHIEVED NCEA LEVEL 2 IN MATHS AND ENGLISH. ENGLISH WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on mechanical engineering apprenticeships through ATNZ, visit www.atnz.org.nz
MIXING HISTORY, SCIENCE & COOL TECHNOLOGY written by SARA CARBERY
photograph by MARTY MELVILLE
CADASTRAL SURVEYOR
BECOME A SURVEYOR
39
CADASTRAL SURVEYING IS ABOUT ESTABLISHING AND RE-ESTABLISHING PROPERTY BOUNDARIES, SOMETHING CLAIRE ENJOYS
“because it incorporates history and science”.
IF YOU LOVE NEW ZEALAND AND LIKE THE OUTDOORS, MATHS AND PROBLEM SOLVING … BECOME A SURVEYOR, SAYS CLAIRE BUXTON. 27-year-old Claire is currently working as a Licenced Cadastral Surveyor with Beca in Wellington, a role that sees her working on a variety of projects. These include managing the topographic survey for the design of an expressway extension, defining a property boundary that has no record in the cadastral system (“real geeky boundary survey stuff, which I think is like being a detective mixed with an archaeologist”), and helping a government land team define parcels of land for cultural redress. Cadastral surveying is about establishing and re-establishing property boundaries, something Claire enjoys “because it incorporates history and science”. After completing her final year at Invercargill’s Verdon College, Claire was inspired to enrol in the four-year Bachelor of Surveying programme at the University of Otago after attending their open day. The number one thing that appealed to her was the opportunities surveying offers to work outdoors, and this remains her favourite part of the job.
“I’ve been to some pretty cool places because of my job – from working all around Canterbury to helping define tricky boundary issues after the Christchurch earthquakes. And now working in Wellington I’m seeing a whole other part of our country. Surveying allows you to get to know a place better than anyone else will.” The University of Otago describes surveying as “a varied and exciting career that has a great indoor/outdoor balance; it requires design skills, measurement skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to sift through evidence. It is a profession that is in constant demand both in New Zealand and abroad.” In Year 13 Claire took PE, physics, statistics, English and music, alongside a university theology paper. During her tertiary studies she found her Year 13 English, one of her favourite subjects at school, just as useful as maths. “The study of land rights and the history of land ownership in New Zealand involves a fair amount of reading and writing analytical reports.”
While her degree involved a minimum of 80 days’ work experience, which saw Claire working in Westport, Dunedin and Christchurch, in hindsight she says it would have been helpful to have spent the summer working as a surveying assistant before settling in to study. “The degree gives you the technical grounding and ability to solve problems but the majority of your learning comes down to getting stuck in to a job, making mistakes and learning from them.” Since graduating, Claire has put in a lot of hard work to become professionally accredited, and certified as a Licensed Cadastral Surveyor. In recognition of her outstanding service and contribution to her profession, she was awarded the New Zealand Institute of Surveyors Bogle Young Surveyor of the Year award in 2016.
KEY FACTS ■ CLAIRE BUXTON HAS A BACHELOR OF SURVEYING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO. ■ SHE SUGGESTS A SUMMER WORKING AS A SURVEYING ASSISTANT BEFORE COMMENCING STUDY, AS THE PRACTICAL TIME ON THE JOB WOULD BE BENEFICIAL. ■ CLAIRE WORKS AS A LICENCED CADASTRAL SURVEYOR WITH BECA IN WELLINGTON.
For more information on studying Surveying through the University of Otago, visit www.otago.ac.nz/surveying and to find out more about cadastral surveying, visit www.surveyors.org.nz
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
TRANSITION TO UNIVERSITY 40
FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNI TIPS TO MASTER THE TRANSITION written by SINEAD LEE MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNIVERSITY IS OFTEN SOMETHING THAT MAKES STUDENTS FEEL NERVOUS. FOR ME, I WONDERED WHETHER I WOULD MAKE FRIENDS, WHETHER I WOULD BE ABLE TO HANDLE THE WORKLOAD AND WHETHER I WOULD SURVIVE MOVING AWAY FROM HOME. Looking back on it now, my first few weeks at university were heaps of fun. I moved from Carmel College on the North Shore of Auckland into Arana College at the University of Otago.
If ever you weren’t sure about something, it was so convenient to be able to pop next door to one of your knowledgeable neighbours and ask.
Moving out of the halls was heaps of fun. I flatted with five other girls, some from my high school and others I had met in Arana from St Margaret’s College and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School in Christchurch and St Hilda’s Collegiate in Dunedin. At high school I took English, drama, We all matured a lot in our first year history, chemistry and statistics in of flatting. With constant assignments Year 13. I had a fair idea at the start and full year exams it was so important of my final year at school that I wanted to have patience with your flatmates. to study law, however I kept up one science subject just in case I changed If I could give any advice, it would my mind. be to try your best to maintain a good relationship with your flatmates I attended the University of Otago’s while you live together. It makes the open day and had a good look environment much more enjoyable! round some of the halls – Arana was Take time to do activities together, my favourite so I put that down as my like the occasional movie or beach first-choice hall with hopes that I would visit. We also found taking the time get in. Luckily enough I did. to eat together at the dinner table I knew a few people going into the every night boosted morale during hall but I instantly made new friends. the cold winter months. The great thing was that we were all One of the things that I loved in the same boat, living away from our about coming to university was the parents for the first time and fresh out freedom to manage your own time. of high school. Everyone had so much There were no roll calls in lectures, in common! no one checks if you have handed The team at Arana made sure that in your assignment and it is your THE TEAM AT ARANA COLLEGE MADE SURE WE ALL GOT TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER BY everyone got to know each other responsibility to get your work done. ORGANISING EVENTS DURING ORIENTATION WEEK SUCH AS THE TOGA PARTY. FROM LEFT: YASMIN TAWNGDEE (WELLINGTON GIRLS COLLEGE), SINEAD LEE (CARMEL through floor activities every week. Also everyone is much more COLLEGE, MILFORD) AND LYDIA FOLEY (ST MARY’S COLLEGE, PONSONBY). passionate and motivated about A few friends and I even got involved what they are studying because they are paying in the Arana women’s rugby team. In my second year I moved from Arana College to a (or borrowing) money to be there. Living in a hall had some major advantages: flat on Castle Street. This was another big change we attended lectures together, studied together as we learnt how to cook, clean and manage our They really are some of the most enjoyable and formed study groups that two years down money effectively. For me this change was greater years of your life, so don’t be too nervous about the track still exist. than that in first year. leaving school!
KEY FACTS ■ LIVING IN HALLS OF RESIDENCE HAS SOME MAJOR ADVANTAGES, YOU QUICKLY MAKE FRIENDS, AND TOGETHER YOU CAN ATTEND LECTURES AND FORM STUDY GROUPS. ■ WHEN FLATTING, TRY YOUR BEST TO MAINTAIN A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR FLATMATES WHILE YOU LIVE TOGETHER. ■ UNIVERSITY YEARS ARE SOME OF THE MOST ENJOYABLE YEARS OF YOUR LIFE, SO DON’T BE TOO NERVOUS ABOUT LEAVING SCHOOL. WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
For more information on accommodation options and studying through the University of Otago, visit www.otago.ac.nz
AVAILABLE FREE ONLINE www.leavingschool.co.nz
Scan me with your smartphone
SPORTSPEOPLE Q&A
photographs from PHOTOSPORT
Q&A WITH YOUR FAVOURITE SPORTS Eight of New Zealand’s leading sports stars look back on their time at high school and offer up some advice, as well as a bit of insight on the path that got them to where they are now, and what they’d be doing if they weren’t professional athletes.
42
ELIZA McCARTNEY
TOM WALSH
MARIA TUTAIA
BEAUDEN BARRETT
TRACK & FIELD ATHLETE — POLE VAULT
TRACK & FIELD ATHLETE — SHOT PUT
NETBALL — SILVER FERN
RUGBY UNION — ALL BLACK
High school(s) attended: I attended Takapuna Grammar School. Favourite subjects at high school and why… My favourite subjects were the sciences, I did all three each year of NCEA. Science has always been where my interests lie and seems to be how my brain is wired. I also loved PE because I had a great teacher who was very trusting of my ability and understanding of my situation. Sports played at school: There aren’t many sports that I haven’t delved into, but my favourites during school were netball, athletics and touch rugby. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. During school I knew that I had a real interest in the human body and medicine so it was always the pathway I was heading towards. What I like most about being a sportsperson: Being a sportsperson I get to travel the world, meet incredible people and very occasionally, when it all goes miraculously to plan, I have experiences you can only dream of. Most of all though, we are put in a position where we can inspire people, and that is very special. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… As you may have guessed, I would be at university attempting to pursue a career in medicine. Advice for students in final years of school: I think when you are young it is very important to follow what you enjoy the most. If you want something enough, you will be able to find a way to get there. There is no reason to listen to anyone, or look at any examples, that say it’s impossible. Someone has to be the first. WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
High school(s) attended: Timaru Boys’ High School. Favourite subjects at high school and why… Land skills and sport were my favourite subjects. Land skills because it was about farming and not really like school at all, and sport because I loved, loved playing sport and challenging myself against others. Sports played at school: Cricket, rugby, hockey, athletics and, wait for it… croquet. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. I wanted to become a professional sportsperson – either a Blackcap or an All Black. I still love my cricket and rugby... and golf! What I like most about being a sportsperson: The opportunity to travel and represent New Zealand on the world stage is incredible. Because of my sport I get to do a lot of things and be involved in a lot of projects that other people don’t. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… Although I’m currently working as a builder with Mike Greer Homes when it fits in, if I had to do something fulltime I’d probably go back to my roots and be a farmer. Advice for students in final years of school: Make the most of all the opportunities that school provides. Get involved in as many activities as you can. It will never be easier to make the most of opportunities than it is at school.
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
High school(s) attended: Lynfield College. My Year 13 year at MAGS [Mount Albert Grammar School]. Favourite subjects at high school and why… Home Eco ‘cause I was always hungry and got to eat what we made every class. Sometimes was not edible lol. Classics. Love Roman history and Greek Mythology. Sports played at school: Everything that involved a ball. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. Pretty boring but all I did was play sports throughout. Was great endless fun! What I like most about being a sportsperson: Friends and memories you make. Been to some pretty cool places too, that I never dreamt of going to. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… Not possible. This is what I was meant to do and wouldn’t look at anything else. Advice for students in final years of school: Believe that there is no impossible.
High school(s) attended: Francis Douglas Memorial College (FDMC). Favourite subjects at high school and why… PE – being able to get out of the classroom and play any competitive game. Geography was good fun. Sports played at school: Cricket, golf, volleyball, rugby, touch, basketball. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. I wanted to pass NCEA Levels 1, 2, 3 in Years 11/12/13 and get UE. I never really knew what I wanted to do after Year 13 so I planned on going to university. I never got there as I was busy playing NZ Sevens Rugby and doing part-time work in New Plymouth. What I like most about being a sportsperson: Being in a team with lots of good friends and sharing some amazing experiences with them. Being able to train and play for ‘work’ is great. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… That’s a tricky question as I don’t know. By now I would have graduated uni, potentially would have travelled and be starting a new job. Advice for students in final years of school: They’re the best days of your life. Don’t get too caught up in leadership and prefect honours, just be the best version of you: work hard, have fun and if things don’t go your way you’re a lot closer than you actually think!
SUZIE BATES CRICKET — WHITE FERN
TYLA NATHAN-WONG
SHAUN JOHNSON
RUGBY SEVENS & TOUCH — BLACK FERN
RUGBY LEAGUE — KIWI
High school(s) attended: Lynfield College. Favourite subjects at high school and why… PE, as I have always loved sport and human biology, as I have always been fascinated with how the body works. Sports played at school: Everything and anything. Touch, rugby, basketball, tag, and soccer to name a few. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. Pass Level 1 & 2 NCEA, play as much sport as possible, enjoy school and hang with my friends. What I like most about being a sportsperson: I get to play the sport I love, hang with an amazing group of girls, stay fit and healthy, inspire the next generation and the massive honour and privilege of representing my country, family, friends, self, and all those amazing women that have worn the jersey before. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… I would be studying fulltime doing a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at Massey University and probably playing some type of sport. Advice for students in final years of school: Enjoy it and have fun. There's going to be times when you are challenged/tested, so always believe in yourself. At the end of the day, nothing will beat hard work, whether it is for school or for sport!!
High school(s) attended: Orewa College. Favourite subjects at high school and why… PE and sports performance. I just wanted to be involved in anything to do with sport. Sports played at school: Rugby league, rugby union, touch, Aussie rules, basketball. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. A PE teacher. What I like most about being a sportsperson: I know this isn’t going to last forever. You’ve just got to enjoy it and embrace it. It’s a bit of a buzz, to have someone come up and say hello to you, and you say hi back and they just smile, or you know, giggle. You sort of feel like you’ve made a difference, or like you’ve made someone’s day. It’s very cool. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… PE teacher. Advice for students in final years of school: Make the most of it, apply yourself.
High school(s) attended: Otago Girls’ High School Favourite subjects at high school and why… Maths and PE. PE for obvious reasons because I loved sport and being active and learning about anything related to sport, health and fitness and we got to go on some pretty cool PE school trips, e.g. x-country ski trip at Cardrona. Maths because I loved the problem-solving challenge and coming to a definitive answer. You could also make maths competitive :) Sports played at school: Touch, volleyball, rugby, cricket and basketball. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. Become a teacher. What I like most about being a sportsperson: As a sportsperson you get to work on your fitness and health daily as part of your job and you have people around to support you with this. You are also constantly put in challenging positions and you have to dig deep and be willing to be uncomfortable at times to grow as an athlete and person. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… If I wasn’t a professional sportsperson I would be teaching and coaching young people to share my passion of sport and give them the opportunity to benefit from all the great life-lessons sport has to offer. Advice for students in final years of school: Don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy your final year of high school before worrying too much about what you want to do next year. And when you do start thinking about next year, listen to advice, but then make sure you follow your heart and passion not the crowd.
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
TOM ABERCROMBIE BASKETBALL — TALL BLACKS
High school(s) attended: Westlake Boys’ High School. Favourite subjects at high school and why… I loved the sciences at school, biology and chemistry were my favourite. Sports played at school: I played rugby in third form [Year 9] but that lasted all of about two weeks as I was having a growth spurt and the coach wanted me to move into the forwards. I also played in a social cricket team, and the top volleyball and basketball teams from Year 10. What I planned to do when I was in Year 11 or 12. I always wanted to go to the US on a basketball scholarship so all my efforts went in to preparing myself for that. This was not only from a basketball side but also making sure academically I was in a great position to be accepted into any school that offered me a scholarship. What I like most about being a sportsperson: Getting to travel the world, see new and exciting countries and meeting new people. I have been very fortunate to play professionally in France, Spain and Turkey for extended periods and really immerse myself in their culture. My wife and I have had some amazing adventures in some of the most beautiful parts of the world that I never would have got the opportunity to visit if it weren’t for my profession. What I’d be doing if I wasn’t a professional sportsperson… I was always interested in studying veterinary science at university and had I not pursued basketball professionally I think I would have studied to become a vet. Advice for students in final years of school: Just enjoy every moment. I know every student gets excited to leave and I was the same but these really are the best years of your life so make the most of every opportunity.
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
SPORTSPEOPLE Q&A
PEOPLE
43
A CLOSER LOOK AT SOME FASCINATING OCCUPATIONS THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT WHICH PATH TO TAKE AFTER SCHOOL. IT’S EASY TO LOSE SIGHT OF THE BIGGER PICTURE – WHAT’S YOUR PASSION? WHAT JOB WILL HAVE YOU WAKING UP EACH MORNING AND LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING IT?
LOW POO R
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
H HIG
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME AVERAGE D GOO
POO R
ANAESTHETIST
AVERAGE
D GOO
Chiropractors help people reach and maintain good health and wellbeing through the care of the spine and nervous system. Chiropractors adjust the spine to correct nerve, muscle and joint disorders. To become a chiropractor you need to complete a Diploma in Applied Science and then complete a Bachelor of Chiropractic (BChiro) degree. If you do the diploma through any institution other than Auckland University of Technology, the New Zealand College of Chiropractic will need to approve this first. Chiropractors need to be understanding, patient and concerned for others. Being good communicators and motivated are also key attributes required in this role. Job opportunities for chiropractors are good as there is high demand for qualified chiropractors. Statistics: In 2014, 371 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 5 years. Pay scale: With less than five years’ experience or those who work part-time $40,000–$60,000. For those with more than six years’ experience and work fulltime, this can be up to $200,000.
INCOME
H HIG
Also known as: Anaesthesiologist. Anaesthetists are doctors who provide anaesthetics (drugs which cause loss of sensation) to patients before, during and after surgery and they monitor patients closely after surgery to make sure that they recover comfortably. You will need to complete the first year of Otago University’s Health Sciences programme or University of Auckland’s Bachelor of Health Sciences or Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science. Then, a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree, two years as a house officer (supervised junior doctor) in a hospital, and five years of specialist training and examinations to become a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. Anaesthetists need to be accurate, careful and have an eye for detail. Working well under pressure and excellent at analysis and interpretation are also key attributes required in this role. Chances of getting a job are good as there is a shortage of workers. Statistics: In 2016, 510 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 13 years. Pay scale: Registrars $112,000–$166,000. Qualified anaesthetists $149,000–$216,000. In the private sector, pay could be as high as $600,000.
MEDIUM
D GOO
Also known as: Agronomist, farming scientist/researcher, horticulturist. Agricultural/horticultural scientists work to develop farming methods to protect animal welfare and the environment. They also find ways to improve the quality and value of animal or crop production, and develop vaccines to improve animal health and productivity. To become an agricultural/horticultural scientist, you usually need a PhD in science, in an area such as agricultural science, microbiology or biochemistry. NCEA Level 3 biology, chemistry, maths, computer studies and English are preferred school subjects. They need to be patient and motivated, as many projects are long-term, and enquiring and observant – especially when recording results. Being accurate, skilled at writing and maths, and good at problem solving and communicating are also skills required in this role. Chances of getting a job as an agricultural/horticultural scientist are good for scientists working on ways to increase agricultural productivity and sustainability. Statistics: In 2014, 762 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 3–9 years. Pay scale: PhD graduates earn $55,000–$67,000. With three to five years’ experience, $70,000–$85,000. With 10 years’ experience, $85,000–$100,000.
H HIG
AGRICULTURAL/ HORTICULTURAL SCIENTIST
Here you’ll find profiles of varied and interesting jobs – from anaesthetist to clinical coder to medical laboratory scientist – that are found across the science and health industries. Each job profile includes detailed descriptors, job prospects and some insightful statistics.
CHIROPRACTOR
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
LOW
INCOME AVERAGE D GOO
Please note: The occupations listed have been colour coded to their predominant industry sector colours using the Vocational Pathway colour chart.
MEDIUM H HIG
Also known as: Nosologist. Clinical coders analyse information about diseases, injuries and procedures in patient discharge records and translate medical statements into health classification codes. This information is used to help write policy, monitor performance and produce health statistics. There are no specific entry requirements to become a clinical coder, but employers often prefer candidates to have knowledge, experience and/or qualifications in medical terminology and clinical coding. Clinical coders need to be good at managing their time, be responsible and able to keep information confidential. Being skilled at problem solving and decision making are also traits required for this role. Chances of getting work as a clinical coder are average, but very good for qualified workers with experience. Statistics: It is unknown how many New Zealanders do this job. Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 1 year. Pay scale: Trainees earn $37,000–$49,000. Qualified clinical coders earn $40,000–$59,000. Senior clinical coders can earn up to $69,000.
POO R
44
JOBS IN FOCUS
CLINICAL CODER
JOBS IN FOCUS
Job data has been sourced from CAREERS NEW ZEALAND, visit careers.govt.nz
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
LOW
LENGTH OF STUDY
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME AVERAGE D GOO
JOB PROSPECTS
LOW POO R
AVERAGE
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
LOW
MEDIUM H HIG
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
INCOME
D GOO
Also ecologist. Also known known as: as: Soil foodscientist, and beverage attendant, restaurant worker Environmental scientists studytothe environment andtables how plants, animals and other organisms affected by it. They alsothestudy Waiters serve food and drink customers, they set and hand out menus/wine lists. Theyare answer questions about menuexternal and take orders. influences, suchcleaning as pollutants, and provide advicecutlery to avoidand or reduce on the Clearing tables, the restaurant, polishing glass, asharmful well as effects restocking foodenvironment. and drinks are also tasks they perform. Some environmental scientists have a degree in environmental science, but many degrees in biology, chemistry, ecology, botany, There are no specific entry requirements for this position, but skills and training areearn gained on-the-job. Working towardphysics, a zoology or earth science inand then apply(Food theirand education to the study of be thedone environment. To become New Zealand Certificate Hospitality Beverage) Level 3 can on-the-job, also. an environmental scientist you’ll need a master’s degree in thewell areaunder of yourpressure, specialisation. Waiters need to work have great people skills and be quick and efficient. Being reliable, punctual and Environmental scientists need to beexpected. accurate,Friendliness, able to makepoliteness good judgements and be are creative, so as to develop new ideas. Being skilled at problem able to work well in a team is also and helpfulness personal solving andneeded organisation are also attributes required in this role. attributes in this role. Chances of getting job in most areas environmental are good due to a shortage of workers. gaining aemployment in thisofrole are good, as science staff turnover is high. Statistics: In 2014, 1187 3–9 years. 18,215New NewZealanders Zealandersdiddidthis thisjob. job.Job Jobprospects: prospects:Good. Good.Length Lengthofofstudy: training: Varies. Pay scale: Varies $15 pergreatly hour. depending on place of work and experience, within university settings $58,000–$131,000 and at research institutes or private practice, $50,000–$120,000.
MEDIUM H HIG
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER
LENGTH OF STUDY
Also known as: Health protection officer. Environmental health officers investigate, monitor and assess the effects of environmental hazards, such as pollution, unsafe food and infectious diseases, on people’s health and wellbeing. They also ensure registered premises comply with regulations and grant licences to them. To become an environmental health officer you need to have a driver’s licence and one of the following: a Bachelor of Health Science (Human Health) from Massey University, a Bachelor of Applied Science (majoring in Health Protection and Environmental Health) from Auckland University of Technology, or a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health (in addition to a relevant degree) from Massey University. Environmental health officers need to be diplomatic and friendly, persuasive, firm and precise. Being able to relate to a wide variety of cultures, age groups and lifestyles is also necessary in this role. Chances of getting a job as an environmental health officer are average, with better opportunities in the main cities than in other parts of the country. Statistics: In 2014, 409 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 3 years. Pay scale: New graduate, $47,000–$60,000. With three to five years’ experience, $66,000–$80,000. Very experienced officers or those in managerial roles, $88,000.
JOB PROSPECTS
LOW
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
MEDIUM H HIG
GEOPHYSICIST
LENGTH OF STUDY
Also known as: Oceanographer, volcanologist, seismologist. Geophysicists study the structure and behaviour of the Earth, including oil and gas deposits, earthquakes, fault lines and volcanoes. They may also provide information for search and rescue missions, and advise central and local government, civil defence and other organisations about risks and carry out research and experiments. To become a geophysicist, as a minimum you need to have a relevant undergraduate degree – such as in physics, geophysics or geology (although some geophysicists may have degrees in maths or statistics, oceanography, engineering, marine science or biology) – however, most employers prefer you to have a master’s degree or PhD. Geophysicists need to be comfortable working outdoors, enquiring, observant and good at maths. Being accurate, patient and skilled at writing reports are also valued skills in this role. Chances of getting work as a geophysicist are good for those working in oil and gas, groundwater exploration and infrastructure development, but poor for those in oceanology or volcanology. Statistics: It is unknown how many New Zealanders do this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 3–6 years. Pay scale: Those starting out earn $75,000-$94,000. With increasing experience $130,000.
JOBS IN FOCUS
POO R
JOB PROSPECTS
POO R
DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIST
AVERAGE
H HIG
DIETICIAN
INCOME
D GOO
Dieticians counsel clients about their lifestyle and eating habits, and plan special diets and provide specialised nutrition care. They may provide nutritional information to food industry organisations and sports and fitness centres. To become a dietician, you need to complete a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition or in Food Science and Nutrition, and a two-year master’s degree in dietetics or in nutrition and dietetics. You also need to be registered with the New Zealand Dietitians Board. Dieticians need to be patient, able to relate to a wide variety of people and be able to inspire confidence in others. Having an interest in science and food, competent at planning, time management and organisation are also key skills required. Chances of getting a job as a dietitian are poor due to graduate numbers exceeding the number of new jobs becoming available. Statistics: In 2014, 609 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Poor. Length of study: 4 years. Pay scale: For those working in a DHB, dieticians starting out earn $46,000. Those with four years’ experience, $63,000. Senior dieticians earn up to $95,000.
MEDIUM H HIG
Also known as: Radiologist. Diagnostic radiologists diagnose diseases of the human body using x-rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, and the injection and tracking of radioactive solution in the body. You will need to complete the first year of Otago University’s Health Sciences programme or University of Auckland’s Bachelor of Health Sciences or Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science. Then, a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree, two years as a house officer (supervised junior doctor) in a hospital, and five years of specialist training and examinations to become a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists. Diagnostic radiologists need to be accurate, careful and have an eye for detail. Being excellent at analysis and interpretation, good at report writing and able to make good decisions and solve problems are also required attributes. Chances of getting a job as a diagnostic radiologist are good due to a shortage of workers. Statistics: In 2011, 335 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 13 years. Pay scale: For those working at DHBs, registrars earn $70,000–$135,000. Qualified diagnostic radiologists $151,000–$212,000. For those in the private sector at the top level up to $600,000.
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
45
LOW POO R
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
H HIG
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME AVERAGE D GOO
POO R
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENTIST PERSONAL CARE MIDWIFE ASSISTANT
LENGTH OF STUDY
D GOO
NATUROPATH
JOB PROSPECTS
JOB PROSPECTS
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
Occupational therapists assess and treat people who have limited ability to carry out everyday activities because of illness, injury or circumstance. They plan and direct therapy treatment, including physical and social activities, advise clients on changes to their lifestyle to help them with daily activities, and observe and report on clients' progress. To become an occupational therapist, you will need to complete the Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy (at AUT) or the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (at Otago Polytechnic or Wintec). Occupational therapists need to be positive, encouraging, analytical and observant. They also need to be skilled at report writing, time management and problem solving. Chances of getting a job as an occupational therapist are poor for those wanting to enter the role, but good for those with experience. Statistics: In 2014, 2115 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 3 years. Pay scale: For those working at DHBs, with up to six years’ experience $47,000–$68,000. With more than six years’ experience, $68,000–$99,000. For those working in private practice, $45,000–$110,000.
H HIG
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
LENGTH OF STUDY
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
Also known as: Community pharmacy technician, dispensary technician, hospital pharmacy technician. A pharmacy technician helps pharmacists to prepare and give out medicines. They receive prescriptions, prepare, mix, pack and label medicines under the supervision of a pharmacist, and issue, deliver and record completed prescriptions. To work as a pharmacy technician and do basic dispensary work, you need to have a New Zealand Certificate in Pharmacy (Technician) – Level 4. To become fully qualified you need to achieve the Level 5 certificate. Pharmacy technicians need to be organised, responsible and careful, particularly when dealing with dangerous drugs on the premises, and able to work within a professional code of ethics and keep information private. Chances of getting a job as a pharmacy technician are good due to a shortage of workers. Statistics: In 2012, 1500 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 2–3 years. Pay scale: Trainees earn $35,000–$40,000 per year. Qualified technicians earn $40,000–$52,000. With additional responsibilities, up to $54,000.
H HIG
AGRICULTURAL PERSONAL CARE PHARMACY TECHNICIAN CHEF TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT
JOBS IN FOCUS
AVERAGE
H HIG
Also known as: Nutritionist. Naturopaths examine, question and observe patients to work out their health problems and then advise and treat them. They prepare or buy herbal medicines, vitamins or minerals, including homeopathic remedies, for patients. To become a naturopath it is recommended to have a Diploma in Naturopathy – Level 6, a Bachelor of Natural Medicine or a Bachelor of Naturopathic and Herbal Medicine. Naturopaths need to be aware and understanding of a range of cultures and backgrounds, as well as have good listening skills to help them accurately assess and diagnose patients’ health problems. Chances of getting a fulltime job as a naturopath are poor due to a limited amount of clients. Statistics: In 2014, 417 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Poor. Length of study: 2–3 years. Pay scale: Varies depending on specialisation, qualifications and experience but usually between $32,000–$50,000.
INCOME
D GOO
Also known as: Community midwife, core midwife, lead maternity carer. Midwives provide care and support to women, their partners and family during pregnancy, labour and birth, and for six weeks following the birth. They also provide wellness and parenting information and education for mothers and their families. To become a midwife you need to complete a three-year Bachelor of Midwifery, which combines theory and practice. Parts of the degree can be done through distance learning. You also need to be registered with the Midwifery Council of New Zealand and have a current annual practising certificate. Midwives need to be mature, responsible, able to work well under pressure and remain calm during emergencies. Being observant, analytical and good at making decisions and managing time are key attributes required in a midwife. Chances of getting a job as a midwife are good, with better chances of finding work in Auckland. Statistics: In 2014, 2764 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 3 years. Pay scale: For those working at DHBs, new graduates and those with up to five years’ experience, $47,000–$64,000. With five years’ experience $64,000–$70,000. Senior roles and those with eight years’ plus experience, $94,000. For self-employed midwives, $70,000–$150,000.
MEDIUM H HIG
46
Also known as: Clinical biochemist, clinical immunologist, cytogeneticist, haematologist, histologist, medical cytologist, medical microbiologist, transfusion scientist. Medical laboratory scientists test and study blood, tissue and fluid samples. They evaluate test results, communicate results, test and set up medical equipment and prepare samples for examination by a pathologist. To become a medical laboratory scientist, you need a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (offered by Massey University, AUT and Otago University) or another qualification recognised by the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand, be registered with the Council, work for at least six months under supervision and have a current annual practising certificate. Medical laboratory scientists need to be methodical, accurate, enquiring, adaptable and good communicators. It is also essential to be responsible, reliable and safety conscious. Chances of getting a job as a medical laboratory scientist are average due to increasing job numbers but high competition for positions. Statistics: In 2014, 1713 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 3 years. Pay scale: Newly registered medical laboratory scientists earn $50,000. With five years’ experience, $64,000. Senior scientists with management responsibilities earn $92,000.
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
| LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
LOW LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
H HIG
LOW
MEDIUM
INCOME AVERAGE D GOO
JOB PROSPECTS
LOW
MEDIUM H HIG
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
VETERINARIAN
LENGTH OF STUDY
Also known as: Industry veterinarian, vet. Veterinarians treat sick and injured animals, provide general animal care, and advise clients about health care and disease prevention for pets and farm (production) animals. They also set standards for the import and export of animals and animal products. To become a veterinarian, you need to complete a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (only available at Massey University – each year 108 students, of which 84 are New Zealand residents, are accepted for the professional phase of the degree), be registered with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand and have an annual practising certificate. Veterinarians need to work well under pressure, inspire confidence in clients, be good communicators and be organised. Chances of getting a job as a veterinarian are good due to a shortage of people in the role, particularly in rural areas. Statistics: In 2012, 2521 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 5 years. Pay scale: Graduates with one to three years’ experience, $58,000. With three to five years’ experience, $76,000. With six to ten years’ experience, $86,000. For those running a business, $100,000–$130,000.
JOB PROSPECTS
LOW
MEDIUM H HIG
INCOME
POO R
AVERAGE D GOO
VETERINARY NURSE
LENGTH OF STUDY
Also known as: Animal nurse, rural animal technician, veterinary technologist, veterinary nurse assistant. Veterinary nurses help in the examination, treatment and rehabilitation of sick and injured animals. They also interact with clients, feed and exercise animals, assist during surgical procedures, perform diagnostic tests and receptionist duties. To become a registered veterinarian nurse, you will need to complete the two-year New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing; if you complete the one-year New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) with Veterinary Nursing Assistant strand, you will qualify as a veterinary nurse assistant. Veterinary nurses need to be able to handle stressful emergency situations, be empathetic, patient and concerned for animals. Chances of getting a job as a veterinary nurse are good due to growing demand for their services. Statistics: In 2014, 1830 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 2 years. Pay scale: Graduates with one to three years’ experience, $58,000. With three to five years’ experience, $16–$18 per hour. With three to five years’ experience, $18–$21 per hour. With five years’ plus experience, $21–$26 per hour.
JOB PROSPECTS
LENGTH OF STUDY
LEAVING SCHOOL issue #9
JOBS IN FOCUS
POO R
LENGTH OF STUDY
POO R
PERSONAL CARE PHLEBOTOMIST ASSISTANT PHYSIOTHERAPIST
JOB PROSPECTS
D GOO
SCIENCE TECHNICIAN
AVERAGE
H HIG
Also known as: Chemistry technician, earth science technician, life science technician, agricultural technician, medical laboratory technician. Science technicians are involved in a variety of laboratory-based investigations within biological, chemical, physical and life science areas. They carry out sampling, testing, measuring, and recording and analysing of results as part of a scientific team. To become a science technician you’ll need a relevant science, technology, or science and technology degree. Some employers require a National Diploma in Science (Level 5 or 6), while others require a Bachelor of Science or a master’s degree in the area of specialisation. Science technicians need to be good at research, enquiring and observant. Being patient, safety conscious and be skilled at organising and planning are also skills required in this role. Chances of getting a job as a science technician are good, especially in applied sciences that develop new technologies, products and services. Statistics: In 2014, 3443 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 2–5 years. Pay scale: Varies depending on type of work, but averages $52,000 a year.
INCOME
D GOO
Also known as: Physical therapist, physio. Physiotherapists assess and diagnose patients’ injuries or functional problems, and help rehabilitate people who have suffered from strokes and accidents. They use a range of treatments to reduce pain and improve movement and plan exercises for patients to improve their strength and fitness. To become a physiotherapist, you need to have either a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Physiotherapy from Auckland University of Technology, or a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Otago. Physiotherapists must be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand and hold a current annual practising certificate. Physiotherapists need to be supportive, positive, be able to gain people’s trust and skilled listeners. Chances of getting a job as a physiotherapist are good due to a strong demand for their services. Statistics: In 2013, 3147 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 4 years. Pay scale: Graduates earn $47,000. One to six years’ experience, $47,000–$68,000. With more than six years’ experience, $68,000–$99,000.
MEDIUM H HIG
Also known as: Donor technician, venepuncture technician, venepuncturist. Phlebotomists collect blood and other samples and throat or wound swabs from patients for laboratory testing or blood banks. They also test for allergies, maintain machinery and look after the patient if they have an adverse reaction. You can either train on the job, or do a combination of study and on-the-job training to become a qualified phlebotomist – each option has further stipulations for qualification but both require you to be registered with the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand. Phlebotomists need to be tolerant, patient and gentle. Being able to inspire confidence in patients and put them at ease, as well as being able to follow procedures and instructions are also key skills. Chances of getting a job as a trainee phlebotomist are average, but better for those able to work in the larger cities. Statistics: In 2014, 734 New Zealanders did this job. Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 2 years. Pay scale: Trainees $31,000–$43,000. Qualified donor technicians, $41,000–$45,000. Qualified phlebotomists, $40,000–$52,000.
| WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
47
IMPORTANT WEBSITES The following list of websites will hopefully assist you as you make plans for life after secondary school whether you plan further study at a polytechnic or university, take a Gap Year, start an apprenticeship or join the workforce.
Accountancy
BDO www.bdo.co.nz/careers CPA New Zealand www.cpaaustralia.com.au Chartered Accountants Australia + New Zealand www.charteredaccountantsanz.com PWC www.pwc.co.nz
AGRICULTURE / VETERINARY
Beef & Lamb New Zealand www.beeflambnz.com Dairy NZ www.dairynz.co.nz Fonterra Co-Op Group www.fonterra.com Get Ahead www.getahead.co.nz Growing NZ www.growingnz.org.nz New Zealand Veterinary Association www.nzva.org.nz Pathway in Agriculture www.pica.org.nz Primary ITO www.primaryito.ac.nz Young Farmers New Zealand www.youngfarmers.co.nz NZX Agri www.landyourdreamjob.co.nz Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre www.taratahi.ac.nz AgriPeople www.agripeople.co.nz
ARTS
Design & Arts College of New Zealand www.designandarts.ac.nz New Zealand School of Dance www.nzschoolofdance.ac.nz New Zealand School of Music www.nzsm.ac.nz NICAI www.creative.auckland.ac.nz Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design www.whitecliffe.ac.nz University of Auckland – Faculty of Arts www.arts.auckland.ac.nz SAE Creative Media Institute www.auckland.sae.edu Toi Whakaari – New Zealand Drama School www.toiwhakaari.ac.nz
AVIATION
ns - Vector Set - Circle Airways New Zealand
@garrettgee
Aviation & Travel Training Group www.attg.co.nz CTC Aviation Training www.ctcaviation.com International Aviation Academy of New Zealand www.flighttraining.co.nz Massey University www.massey.ac.nz
Banks ASB www.asb.co.nz ANZ www.anz.co.nz BNZ www.bnz.co.nz Kiwibank www.kiwibank.co.nz The Co-operative Bank www.co-operativebank.co.nz Westpac www.westpac.co.nz
Career Guidance
Careers Expo www.careersexpo.org.nz Careers New Zealand www.careers.govt.nz CDANZ www.cdanz.org.nz
Corrections / Fire Defence / Justice
Department of Corrections www.corrections.govt.nz New Zealand Fire Service www.fire.org.nz New Zealand Police Recruitment www.newcops.co.nz Defence Careers www.defencecareers.mil.nz
Education
New Zealand School of Education www.nzse.ac.nz Early Childhood Education www.ecnz.ac.nz Educational Organisations www.nzqa.govt.nz Vocational Pathways www.youthguarantee. net.nz/vocational-pathways
Employment Allied Work Force www.awf.co.nz Do Good Jobs Careers www.dogoodjobs.co.nz Employment New Zealand www.employment.govt.nz MyJobSpace www.myjobspace.co.nz Student Job Search www.sjs.co.nz TradeMe www.trademe.co.nz/jobs Work and Income www.job-bank.workandincome.govt.nz
Engineering New Zealand Diploma in Engineering www.engineer.org.nz IPENZ www.ipenz.nz
Fashion - Design New Zealand Fashion Tech
www.nzfashiontech.ac.nz Social Media Icons - Vector Set - Circle www.airways.co.nz
Air New Zealand Aviation Institute www.aviationinstitute.co.nz Ardmore Flying School www.ardmore.co.nz
by @garrettgee
Sewtec Fashion Academy www.sewtec.ac.nz Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design www.whitecliffe.ac.nz
LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ
Gap Year Lattitude www.lattitude.org.nz Outward Bound www.outwardbound.co.nz Projects Abroad www.projects-abroad.co.nz
Government Departments Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment www.mbie.govt.nz Ministry of Justice www.justice.govt.nz Ministry of Social Development www.msd.govt.nz Ministry of Science & Innovation www.msi.govt.nz Ministry of Health www.health.govt.nz Ministry of Education www.education.govt.nz ACC www.acc.co.nz Ministry of the Environment www.mfe.govt.nz Ministry of Primary Industries www.mpi.govt.nz Ministry of Transport www.transport.govt.nz Creative New Zealand www.creativenz.govt.nz Ministry for Culture and Heritage www.mch.govt.nz
Hair and Beauty Cut Above Academy www.cutabove.ac.nz Elite International School of Beauty www.elitebeautyschool.co.nz Hito (hairdressing) www.hito.org.nz Premier Hairdressing Academy www.hairdressing.org.nz Rodney Wayne New Zealand Ltd www.rodneywayne.co.nz Servilles Academy www.servilles.com/academy
HOSPITALITY Auckland Hotel & Chefs Training School www.ahcts.co.nz ServiceIQ www.serviceiq.org.nz
Industry Training OrganiSations Apprenticeship Training Trust www.att.org.nz Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation www.bcito.org.nz Careerforce www.careerforce.org.nz Competenz www.competenz.org.nz Connexis www.connexis.org.nz ETCO www.etco.co.nz Funeral Services Training Trust www.fstt.org.nz Industry Training Federation www.itf.org.nz Master Link www.masterlink.co.nz Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO) www.mito.org.nz New Zealand Marine and Composites Industry Training Organisation www.nzmarine.com Primary ITO www.primaryito.ac.nz
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
ServiceIQ www.serviceiq.org.nz Skills Active www.skillsactive.org.nz The Skills Organisation www.skills.org.nz
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)
Information Technology Training Institute www.itti.ac.nz IT Professionals New Zealand www.itp.nz
Maori Education
Te Wananga O Aotearoa www.twoa.ac.nz Te Wananga O Raukawa www.wananga.com
Mental Health
Health Promotion Agency www.depression.org.nz SPARX www.sparx.org.nz Youthline www.youthline.co.nz The Lowdown www.thelowdown.co.nz
New Zealand Universities AUT University www.aut.ac.nz Lincoln University www.lincoln.ac.nz Massey University www.massey.ac.nz The University of Auckland www.auckland.ac.nz The University of Waikato www.waikato.ac.nz University of Canterbury www.canterbury.ac.nz University of Otago www.otago.ac.nz Victoria University of Wellington www.victoria.ac.nz
PERSONAL FINANCE / BUDGETING SERVICES Commission for Financial Capability www.cffc.org.nz Kiwi Saver www.ird.govt.nz/kiwisaver Ministry of Social Development www.familyservices.govt.nz NZ Federation of Family Budgeting Services www.familybudgeting.org.nz The Kiwi Guide to Money www.sorted.co.nz
Pharmacy
Open Polytechnic www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz Otago Polytechnic www.op.ac.nz Southern Institute of Technology www.sit.ac.nz Tai Poutini Polytechnic www.tpp.ac.nz Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology www.toiohomai.ac.nz UNITEC www.unitec.ac.nz Universal College of Learning (UCOL) www.ucol.ac.nz Waikato Institute of Technology www.wintec.ac.nz Wellington Institute of Technology www.weltec.ac.nz Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki www.witt.ac.nz Whitireia Community Polytechnic www.whitireia.ac.nz
PRIVATE TRAINING ESTABLISHMENTS Academy Group (NZ) Limited www.academy.ac.nz Auckland Hotel & Chefs Training School www.ahcts.co.nz Cornell Institute of Business & Technology (CIBT) www.cornell.ac.nz Le Cordon Bleu www.lecordonbleu.co.nz
Science / Innovation Callaghan Innovation www.callaghaninnovation.govt.nz Future InTech www.futureintech.org.nz Plant & Food Research www.plantandfood.co.nz Science New Zealand Inc. www.sciencenewzealand.org The New Zealand Institute of Food Science www.nzifst.org.nz
Student Loans / Grants Generosity New Zealand www.generosity.org.nz/giv-me Study Link www.studylink.govt.nz
Teaching
Physiotheraphy NZ College of Physiotherapy www.physiotherapy.org.nz
Post Primary Teachers Association www.ppta.org.nz Teach First NZ www.teachfirstnz.org Teach NZ www.teachnz.govt.nz Early Childhood of New Zealand www.ecnz.ac.nz
Polytechnics
SCHOLARSHIPS
Pharmacy Council www.pharmacycouncil.org.nz
Ara Institute of Canterbury www.ara.ac.nz Careers NZ www.careers.govt.nz Eastern Institute of Technology www.eit.ac.nz Generosity New Zealand www.generosity.org.nz/giv-me Manukau Institute of Technology ns - Vector Set - Circle Social Media Icons - Vector Set - Circle www.manukau.ac.nz Education Trust @garrettgee byMaori @garrettgee www.maorieducation.org.nz Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology www.nmit.ac.nz Te Puni Kōkiri www.tpk.govt.nz/en North Tec www.northtec.ac.nz Te Tapuae o Rehua www.tetapuae.co.nz
LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ
Kia Ora Hauora www.kiaorahauora.co.nz Universities New Zealand www.universitiesnz.ac.nz/scholarships
OTHER WEBSITES OF INTEREST
Affco www.affco.co.nz ATNZ http://legacy.competenz.org.nz/ apprentices/atnz Computer Power Plus www.computerpowerplus.ac.nz Countdown www.countdown.co.nz Cromwell College www.cromwell.school.nz Downer www.downercareers.co.nz ESR www.esr.cri.nz E tū www.etu.nz GNS Science www.gns.cri.nz Got a Trade www.gotatrade.org.nz Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) www.icnz.org.nz Landcare Research www.landcareresearch.co.nz MAINZ www.mainz.ac.nz NIWA www.niwa.co.nz New World www.newworld.co.nz/careers New Zealand School of Education (NZSE) www.nzse.ac.nz New Zealand School of Food & Wine www.foodandwine.co.nz New Zealand Society of Actuaries www.actuaries.org.nz New Zealand Tertiary College www.nztertiarycollege.ac.nz New Zealand Institute of Agriculture & Horticultural Science Inc www.agscience.org.nz New Zealand Institute of Architects Inc www.nzia.co.nz New Zealand Institute of Education www.nzie.ac.nz The New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors www.nziqs.co.nz New Zealand Institute of Sport www.nzis.co.nz The New Zealand Institute of Surveyors www.surveyors.org.nz New Zealand Management Academies (NZMA) www.nzma.ac.nz NZ Institute of Medical Laboratory Science (Inc) www.nzimrt.co.nz Pacific International Hotel Management School (PIHMS) www.pihms.ac.nz Plumbing World www.plumbingworld.co.nz Professional Bar and Restaurant School (PBRS) www.pbrs.ac.nz Queenstown Resort College www.queenstownresortcollege.com Real Me www.realme.govt.nz Studyit www.studyit.org.nz Talley’s www.talleysdeepseacareer.co.nz
WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ
T U A E V I L Y A D EN
P O ST
O M HE
T
you
re u t u rf
s n o i opt
W O R N ve
i l E / z T n S . I c a . G t au RE
e r o l Exp
2PT
SE 2017