Unitec OMAG 2013

G A M O

UNITEC PRES

ENTS

2013

w about no k to d ou nee y ing h t y ever . orientation and more .. or u get ready f

he sun t in s d soun

make sure yo

ks & rea b una h ta sola rosa

interviews w DELIVERED BY...

ith

T N E

V E E E FR

DELIVERED BY...

usu Students’Association at Unitec

Please note this is the only printed magazine for the year so make sure you visit www.unitec.co.nz/studentmedia for daily and monthly content.

We can also be found at www.facebook.com/groups/unitecstudentmedia

S T N E T N CO 18 FEBRUARY 2013 FEATURES 5

7

Greetings

10

8

Latest & Greatest

Get Familiar

Vox Pop

12

16

18

Campus Breakdown

Unitec Orientation Gig Guide

Sounds in the Sun Checklist

INTERVIEWS 20 Tahuna Breaks

20 Sola Rosa

OFILES ST U D E N T P R 14 Netane Takau 25 Nicki Spring

Editor: JAYNE KING Graphic Design: Mark Lovatt

15 Jey Johnston

23 Filo Fatai

25 Dallas Spring 26 Building One Profiles

Editorial Inquiries ph. (09) 815 4321 ext. 7927 studentmedia@unitec.ac.nz

Advertising Inquiries ph. (09) 815 4321 ext 7383 usucommunications@unitec.ac.nz

Contributors: Rick Ede, Ben Kevey, Jayne King, Jey Johnston, Elizabeth Leuo, Nicki Spring, Dallas Spring, Shweta Shetty.

Disclaimer Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Submissions and contributors are welcome, but the publisher reserves the right to select and edit the material submitted. Materials submitted will remain property of the publisher unless alternative arrangements are made.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A

STUDENT REP TALK TO YOUR PROGRAmmE LEADER OR cOnTAcT REPRESEnTATIOn@UnITEc.Ac.nz LEADERSHIP STARTS RIGHT HERE,

RIGHT NOW

www.unitec.ac.nz/current-students www.facebook.com/groups/unitecstudentmedia DELIVERED BY...

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

WELCOME

ra kiawO elcome and

kia Ora

unitec!

It’s great to have you here and we look forward to seeing you grow and succeed.

This is an exciting year to be joining us whether you’re a new student or you’re returning to study for a new year.

Not only do you have a fun-filled first few weeks ahead with our orientation line-up, you will also be among the first students to benefit from new industry opportunities here at Unitec.

These include working and learning opportunities exclusive to Unitec students, with the recent opening of an IBM Delivery Centre based at our Mt Albert campus.

We’ve also made some key changes to the things that matter most to our students, including the food options available on campus. Your feedback will always be listened to here, and it does feed into the decisions we make that shape your experience.

While it’s important you have fun, we’re here to also provide you with a well-supported, career-focused education today, that takes you where you want to be tomorrow.

You’ve got all the potential, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.

Throughout this diary you’ll find helpful hints, directories and advice to help you get the best out of your experience here at Unitec.

Be sure to make use of all the resources available – they’re for you, after all!

G o o d l u c k an d w el c o me .

Rick Ede Chief Exec u ti ve

I want to welcome you all and I hope you have an amazing experience with your study life here at Unitec. This year is looking to be a GREAT year for students IN ALL AREAS.

Unitec 2013 is looking more and more exciting, as we move into a year of new beginnings for a lot of us, and new study adventures. For those of you that are new to Unitec, I hope that your orientation experience is the party of a life time. Enjoy and take in all the opportunities and activities that Unitec has to offer. For many, I guarantee you will SEE ME lining up to be involved. Honestly, the lunchtime BBQs, the Amazing Race, and for many going to ‘Sounds in the Sun’. Who could ask for a better beginning?

While you guys lived it up in summer sun and summer fun, we as your student representation have been working our asses off, to better meet your wants and needs as students. For almost three months my head has been knocking walls and kicking curbs to get you a better study experience, and a more enjoyable Unitec life while you’re here.

Some of the things that are fresh for 2013 are: • A longer and more awesome Orientation (6 weeks long) • Mt. Albert Campus’s new neighbour IBM which will be hiring students • The new food contract provider in the Hub • The new upgrade to ‘Te Puna Reo’ child care centre • The stage 2 upgrade of the Northern Campus •The new coffee cart company at Waitakere and Mt Albert Campuses This year I will be feeding you info on what’s up, and what’s not. I want you the students, to tell me and show me what you want. In 2013 we might ask you and your friends your opinions on what makes Unitec great, or what makes it SHIT! I want to know if you love it, or loathe it. So have a think and when you see me ‘round throw me your thoughts on things.

E N J O Y TH I S Y E A R , A N D M A K E 20 1 3 TH E B E ST STUD Y Y E A R O F Y OUR L I F E !

B e n Ke v e y Un i te c S tu de n t Pre z 201 3 studentpresident@unitec.ac.nz www.facebook.com/studentprez

5

orientation 2013

&

FEATURE

LATEST T S E T A E GR EDITORIAL Orientation is super exciting!

It feels like only yesterday when I first came through Gate three, bright eyed, bushy tailed and ready to embark on a new journey for both me and my young family. I remember feeling slightly nervous as I raced my pram down to one of the onsite daycares. Not only was it my first day in studying towards a Bachelor of Business, but it was also my son's first day in day care.

Leaving him there was the hardest challenge for me on that hot balmy summer day.

The guilt plagued my mind throughout my first day, and more so the next, as it was his first birthday.

Fast forward four years later and...

I am still here bright eyed, bushy tailed and eagerly anticipating Orientation all over again. I too yet again, am returning to the classroom to complete the last leg of my degree. And this year, my baby starts his first day at primary school.

Where did the time fly?

2013 is set to be a really exciting year! The Student Media team is delighted to announce the launch of a new website www.unitec.ac.nz/studentmedia This site will be the NEW home to all our regular magazine content and images - so this means we will no longer be printing our fortnightly Script publication. Instead our issues will be uploaded to this new online web source for all our Unitec students to enjoy.

We are really looking forward to having more students on board the contributors team this year so make sure you sign up and get involved today!

Pea c e & c h i c ken g r ea s e Jayne Student M edi a E d i tor

Welcome to the first of many ‘Latest & Greatest’ by our resident student contributor – Jey Johnston. This will be one of the places on our NEW STUDENT MEDIA WEBSITE to find out what’s hot, what’s not and everything else in between! From the latest internet sensations, student news, celebrity goss, handy iPhone apps, viral videos and awkward #hashtags, you can count on Jey to source the top picks from the web. If you have any quirky news and or ideas to share then make sure you hit up Jey at her new regular post on the Student Media website www.unitec.ac.nz/studentmedia

What's

HOT Sounds In The Sun – Not only do we have an awesome line up again this year, the weather is promising to be amazeballs. Get your tickets now! #Winning Campus Food – Yes! There has been a change in catering contracts and we now have a wider range of food to look forward to on the daily, better prices and therefore a better reason to ditch last night’s leftover pizza.

IBM Centre in Building 172 IBM has said that it expects to create about 400 full and part-time jobs within two years at the centre, which opened at the Mt Albert campus this month. iStudiez Pro (istudentpro.com) – Enter your semester timetable into this handy little app and you will never miss a lecture, study group or assignment due date again!

Concerts – Coming up in March we have the Jackson brothers gracing our shores, as well as shows from the ginger ninja Ed Sheeran, FUN, The Civil Wars and One Direction *sigh* just to name a few!

What's

NOT iPhone 5 – There, I said it. Having to buy new shaped cases, protector screens, chargers, docks and so on is getting “tricked by business” and “swindled and pimped” - from "Thriftshop" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (Ft. Wanz) Ka-CHING! #NP aka Now Playing – A common hash tag on Twitter people use to let others know what kind of mood they’re in. #NP something depressing, something gangster etc. Nobody actually cares.

Studylink – It had to be done and I can hear your moans and groans about it from here. Nothing is ever as simple as “you can now do everything online”. We forget passwords and usernames, you lock us out of the system and we end up having to spend 45 minutes waiting for you to answer. In an ideal world, you would set up a call centre with an appropriate ‘staff to tertiary student ratio’. Jeez.

Public Transport – Yes, another gripe we all have to deal with, whether you’re unfortunate enough to catch a bus which shows up late (or not at all) or get cut off by an ignorant bus driver. Thank the Unitec lords for the shuttle which travels between and around Mt. Albert and Waitakere campuses.

For now I’ll leave you with a picture describing how I feel about returning to Unitec in 2013... #DAYSWITHJEY

Jenaya Johnston is a 3rd Year Bachelor of Communications student and has been a regular contributor to the Student Media team since 2011.In between her studies, Jey spends a large portion of her time online and can often be found stirring up a storm on twitter @JEYDOTCOM and Face Book Jey Johnston.

7

8

orientation 2013

FEATURE

get

iar l fami

Are you new to Auckland and don't quite know your way around just yet? Then checkout our list of fave local eating spots, hidden shopping haunts and fun spots in Auckland to see:

BEST eats

cheap eats

Barilla Dumplings

571 Dominion Road Balmoral If you like dumplings steamed fried or boiled then this is just the place for you!

This busy and popular Balmoral restaurant serves up the best plate of scrumminess in Auckland City. On appearance alone, it is nothing to look at, but believe me when you taste their notorious dumplings this place will soon become your number one eating spot too.

cheap eats

new eats

286 Karangahape Rd Newton Auckland City This vegetarian restaurant is the cheapest place to eat in Auckland! They have a Student Menu for $6 which will get you a soup, vegetable curry on rice, pakora with chutney and a dessert.

I love this place so much and only wish I could frequent them more often.

2057 Great North Rd Avondale So, American super fast food joint ‘Carl Jnrs’ has landed in our neck of the woods. If you are looking for another version of burger and fries then I guess this would be right up your alley.

Hare Krishna

Carl Jnrs

orientation 2013

9

FEATURE

BEST bargins OP SHOPS

SHOPPING If shopping is one of your vices then make sure you check out these Auckland Outlet Stores.

Dress Smart Auckland

iar jayne king reviews by

151 Arthur St, Onehunga, There are over 100 outlet stores including brands such as Nike, Levi's, Rip Curl, Converse and Lacoste. The sales come and go in this place so don't set your hopes up too high.

For those of you on the North Shore Head to the small block of shops at 7 Triton Ave in Albany. This is the place to go if you are a fan of Billabong, Federstion, Icebreaker and Citta Design.

Montage bar

The Chevron

14 Mayfair Place Glen Innes There are a handful of second hand clothing stores, all with in a few minutes walking distance of each other. Enjoy!

Sunday Drin

Point Chevalier Shops Montage bar is by far the nicest place to drink in the Point Chevalier shops. The drinks are reasonably priced and they make some quaint cocktails for the ladies too.

201 Point Chevalier road Point Chevalier This quaint ice cream parlour has literally only just sprung up in the middle of Pt Chevalier road. They offer an array of smoothies, ice creams and other yummy treats. Perfect if you are on your way to the beach and want to grab an ice cream.

Glen Innes Shopping Centre

S K N I R D T S E B

tails Handy Cock

new eats

Point Chevalier Hospice If you prefer to buy vintage and pre-loved clothing then we suggest you check out the local Point Chevalier Hospice (located inside the Point Chevalier arcade). This store is a wonderful place to shop, but remember that they close at 4pm sharp during the week. The coolest thing is that they usually have some kind of sale before the store closes every other day. So make sure you check it out!

t Live Music in

ks

Chapel Bar & Bistro

147 Ponsonby Rd Ponsonby This is a small corner bar that goes off on most days of the week but particularly if you are looking for somewhere to go on a Sunday evening then this is the spot!

he Hood

The Portland Public House

463 New north Road, Kingsland Check out this spot for live music and comfy retro couches. Have a drink or two and then head straight across the road to the “Neighbourhood Brew Bar� for more live entertainment. Set in the heart of Kingsland these two bars would be worth visiting for their funky retro set ups alone.

aces any cool local pl If you know of check out ld ou sh ts en that Unitec stud ow! please let us kn iew of med to submit a rev Students are welco s etc. by vie places, books, mo your favourite local emailing itec.ac.nz studentmedia@un z ecstudentmedia.co.n nit or visiting www.u

10

vox

orientation 2013

FEATURE

pops

edition l counci 3 student

201

make on If you could it be? what would

, nge at Unitec a h c e AWESOME

anga Mahat ions garonoa N ic Te mun chelor of Com 2nd year Ba

Maori Stud

Condor Benjamin r of Nursing year Bachelo 3rd

SHS Faculty

Representati

ve

“The thing I would most like to change at Unitec would be for every student to feel a sense of belonging within Unitec and feel like all

of Unitec provided them with a supportive learning environment where they felt like they fit in. In my role as a START Mentor for new students I found that peer and organisational support is crucial to success within tertiary study. I am also a firm believer in a balanced lifestyle, and a good group of mates can go a long way toward making that happen with study groups and the like.”

ents’ Representati

ve

“As Maori Rep, I would love to ensure all relevant information is accessible to new/current students from the get go!

This includes informing new/current students of: • Transport to and from Unitec • Where to get a cheap feed • Introduce people to others with similar interests/goals • Have a well known HQ where students can go to for any advice • How to balance work and play I struggled to find my footing at Unitec when I first arrived, so I am strongly pushing for a clear process in which students can integrate into tertiary education more easily. To eliminate the stigma of students falling out, we must first understand the reason behind it.

Together, we can keep our friends and family at Unitec by frequently reminding ourselves that we need to have fun more often to avoid the stress studies can bring.”

orientation 2013

eth Leuo Elizarb cial Practice Bachelor of So 3rd yea

d Pacific Stu

ents’ Representati

“If I could make one awesome change at Unitec it would be to have the option of using apple computers and laptops on loan in the libraries. Some of the features this brand has

can more easily meet the needs of an often demanding workload, also giving a wider variety of programmes to use and also making power points that much more wow!!! Lets dooze it Unitec! “

ve

Jey Johonston ations r of Communic

el 3rd year Bach

CIB Faculty

Representati

Bach

Technolog

y and Built

Env

ve

“Nothing really, to me Unitec is an awesome place to work, study and play. On the other hand I would love to teach people

how, when and where to use the correct your/you're - it's the difference between knowing your shit and knowing you're shit!

Haha grammar Nazi right here.

I want students to keep in mind that: "If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you!" “

“More awesome social events for students to interact in!”

lleny helnlstA Mitc ctio u r elor of Co

11

FEATURE

Aside from the few sausage sizzles and Sounds in the Sun, Unitec could offer more events during the 2O weeks of both semesters.

It would be good to see more events through this period when students are getting to know each other and needing to find their feet on campus. Events like toga parties, inter-department Olympics or competitive sports days running at all times all throughout the campus would allow students to get to know each other and bond in a more relaxed environment. Having events like this during the year could also help to relieve stress during busy times in the academic calendar. If you want more events like these post your ideas at: www.facebook.com/groups/ UnitecStudentMedia

lty Representati ironment Facu

ve

12

FEATURE

orientation 2013

TEAM C E T I UN OWN

PUS BREAKD M A C T R E MT ALB

TEAM PEN CLICKER

TEAM HUBSTER

Commonly found in and around B180.

Hubsters are a common breed of student found on many campuses nation-wide. The perpetual ‘hang out crew’ are found chill-laxing in the hub all day long, all semester long, never seeming to leave or attend classes. It is assumed that they hang out in the hub all day in an attempt to gain notoriety and extend their youth (and the years needed to pass their courses!).

If this tribe is not found in the Hub then they can be found hustling students for $5 hair cuts outside the Uni Lounge.

Found in a classroom near you.

If you aspire to being ranked the ‘World’s Fastest Pen Clicker’ then this team was devised just for you. This species of student is slightly harder to detect than imagined. The incessant ‘click, click, click’ will sometimes go undetected on a daily basis. You may even go a whole semester without realising that annoying pen clicker is in fact your best mate. (Le sigh) The friend you once really enjoyed going to Carrington’s with for a beer, may now turn out to be that friend you no longer sit next to in class. Be warned - members of this team are quietly located in a class near you.

Note to serial Pen Clickers: We understand that you are sometimes oblivious to your impact on the class, so consider this to be a friendly word of advice. Put your writing instruments down when not in use!

n kere or Norther Are you a Waita ies or st e m t with so Campus studen ur yo on s" m ea "t the to share about campus? c.nz

edia@unitec.a

Email: studentm

orientation 2013

FEATURE

Team Muscle

TEAM HIPSTER

Exclusive to Building 1 The northern end of the Mt Albert campus has a remarkable reputation of being home to the hipster crew. A sub-culture among the army of Creative Arts students, they are heavily inked with symbols and other Pinterest-inspired images. They’re the students wearing screen printed t-shirts with vintage Doc Marten boots, smoking cigarettes and drinking shots of coffee before strolling to the studio for a day of art and crafts. This is definitely a NO GO ZONE for you pen clickers!

TEAM CARRINGTON’S

Carrington’s bar is the centre of campus for this lot.

These highly social students can often be found whisking their mates away for a quick drink in between classes, or hosting a group meeting session at the residential watering hole. This breed of student spends so much time and money at the bar they have managed to hook up a tab with the friendly bar staff and blend so well in to the furnishings you’d be fooled into thinking they work there too.

If they’re not there, then the bar must be closed!

Found flexing their muscles at various campus hang-outs.

Full time sports courses and after class workouts have given this group abs of steel. But while these guys pull out the big guns to incite either lust or envy at every opportunity (“man that set of 100 push ups made me hot. I need to take my shirt off”) they are still no match for the Blues.

The Blue Team

Typically found on the banks of the rugby fields.

The grass banks next to the Blues’ training grounds seem to attract a surprising number of all-girl study groups. This team of loyal rugby supporters likes picnicing on eye-candy.

Team Squatter

Most often found in the back corner of the library.

These harmless and often studious students hibernate in the library for hours, days and nights on end. Often found with a plethora of heavy reading material scattered around their weary heads. It is hard to believe they get any kind of slumber whilst resting on the hard wooden surfaces within the library.

If they are sleeping, DO NOT DISTURB!

The Home Team

TEAM GEEK

Found with their nose in a book or their thumbs on a calculator.

Reasonably self-explanatory, this team is here to get as much as they can consume from each lecture; so move and get out of the way if you are not. Commonly found loitering in the hallways before the lecturer has even arrived, or hidden in the super quiet zone at the library; this super geek has their timetable written down in every note book. “I was at the library for ten hours yesterday!” is the motivational message most overheard from this crew.

Friendly yes! But don’t get it twisted, Team Geek do not share or lend their notes to anyone. You may find that Pen Clickers and Geeks flock together.

This clever lot has figured out that Unitec has just about everything you need for a happy home, and no rent = more money for beer!

There are free showers and plenty of couches to crash on after the almost nightly parties at the residential village, and the villagers are like one big welcoming family. All you need is a car to store your stuff. Past Student Presidents have tended to join this team.

TEAM FACEBOOK

Unavoidable…especially when your unfinished assignment is due in 2 hours.

The computer labs and any other areas of technology space are overtaken by this team. They occupy essential computer space during the busiest of times and fail to share the free resources with other students at the height of assignment and study periods.

Oblivious to the long lines of frustrated students, Team Facebook continues to update their statuses – DISLIKE! Avoid this lot by borrowing a laptop from the library or dropping into the labs at Maia (182-1001) or the Pacific Centre (B111).

13

14

GRAD PROFILE

orientation 2013

netane takau

WD ROM THE CRO F T U O G IN D STAN

Netane Takau was the poster boy who starred in Unitec’s 2012 marketing campaign following real life students. One year on Netane talks about life in front of the camera and going back to his roots in Tonga with the film crew.

Student Media contributor, Elizabeth Leuo, nabbed some quality time with Netane to quiz him about being in the spotlight, and how he has lifted his professional game.

How was your experience with the Unitec marketing campaign?

It was a really good experience, it felt good that I could express myself. I also like the fact that it was honest, I wasn't told what to say, it was real. Sometimes I felt embarrassed, especially during filming as people would stare, I just tried to ignore them and rush the filming (laughs). At times the popularity wasn't always fun, I constantly felt like I had to act a certain way because I was worried about what people would think. It was hard for me to adjust with people coming up to me all the time, it was weird. However I got used to it after a while, I kinda had too (laughs).

I am only addressed as "Hey nurse guy", " It’s the Unitec guy”, "Hey famous guy" or "It’s the guy off that ad".

Was it weird having them follow you to Tonga?

Yes! It felt so weird, I always go back to Tonga to visit without anyone really noticing me, or watching me. This time there were cameras surrounding me and watching over my shoulder. It felt awkward when the camera crew plus Unitec representatives came to my family home, as it was the first time any media had been in my home (laughs). They met my parents and came to where I grew

up; they got to know a very personal side of me. They were all cool which made things a lot easier.

What has this coverage done for you professionally and or personally?

It definitely gave me more confidence. I'm not so shy now and it has helped me to always strive for the best…which is good.

Has it had any negative impacts on your life?

Yeah! I can’t hide! (laughs)…whatever I do I'm constantly watched.

I am only addressed as "Hey nurse guy", " It’s the Unitec guy”, "Hey famous guy" or "It’s the guy off that ad".

The worst thing about it is, was my name was printed on billboards, it was written on the ads, I also said it in my ads and not one person has addressed me by my name.

What are you doing now?

I just finished my final state exam for my degree and I am currently awaiting my results plus job hunting in the meantime. I've been helping my family around the house in preparation for Christmas, I've also had time to finally sleep, relax and have some downtime as all my studies are done! (laughs)

Do you have any words of wisdom for first year students?

“Work hard, study hard!”

And commit yourself to your studies; all your goals are achievable if you do this! :)

orientation 2013

STUDENT PROFILE

15

Click… can I just pause for a moment? Please.

During my time at Unitec I have been a class rep, student rep, promo team ambassador, student blogger, Script contributor and now my biggest role – the Creative Industries & Business Faculty Representative. As you can probably tell by now I am big on talking, so I thought why not put that talking to use. I love people; talking, interacting and watching. But seriously, I worked hard to get where I am in terms of the faculty rep role and I am glad that Unitec pulled through and got their votes in. I was elected, then elated and I look forward to being the student voice for my peers this year!

jey johnston more than

just a Stud

ent Rep

Kia Ora, Malo, Hello, Wazzup, Chur Bey… It’s the start of the year and everyone is in the midst of transitioning between holiday mode and work mode. Firstly, I’d like to say welcome back to those who graced Unitec with their presence in 2012 and a big, warm welcome to all the newbies!

Second of all I’d like to introduce myself as JEY; third year Communications student, member of the Unitec Promo Team and the 2013 Creative Industries & business Faculty Representative.

But who am I outside of Unitec? That is the question on everyone’s mind and fair enough – I would want to know more about the person representing my voice at Unitec.

Well, I appear to be this student representing ‘“more food on campus” protesting’, uni magazine writing maniac, who can be found parked over yellow lines in the hopes of not being clamped and wandering around campus with an apparently bottomless can of Red Bull at all times, wearing no make-up and an untamed mop on top of my head. However looks can be deceiving – I am actually quite the organised nerd.

Believe it or not I study full time plus an extra paper each semester, work full time for a record label, run an event promotions company, write for Student Media, tweet about 300 times a day and most importantly I am a mother to the most gorgeous little boy in the world! Don’t ask me how I do it – I don’t even know how I do it. However, as much as I despise getting 5 hours sleep a night there are some great positives which come out of working so hard.

UNITEC LIFE – I am notorious for leaving assignments to the last minute and pulling unnecessary all nighters in order to get them in on time. I’ve even been known to sleep the night before and begin the process the morning it’s due and still hand it in on time. The key to this is my knack for great stories and the ability to milk an entire paragraph out of a statement that should have been no longer than a sentence! I’m one of those students who is given a 1500 word assignment, yet reach 3000 words when the essay isn’t even half complete. I also can’t believe I am in my third year already, where did the time go?? I feel like Adam Sandler in that movie

MUSIC LIFE – I was lucky enough to fall in love with one of the hardest working men in NZ’s music industry. I was even luckier when he decided to keep me *laughs*. He shall remain nameless in case I am accused of subliminal advertising or beneficial name dropping – and because we’re a little like Beyonce & Jay Z (so I like to think lol) and we don’t discuss our personal lives in the media #LARF. In 2011 he started a record label from scratch, which quickly rose to fame and is known as DNK World Music. The label signed an exclusive publishing deal and with Universal Music and is also home to artists Donell Lewis (“I know you been missing my love, la la la laa”) and DJ Lenium (Jet Nightclub).

Since the birth of the label, I have played the role of good wife. Whether it’s writing press releases for the label, proof reading thank you excerpts for albums, booking shows, liaising with artists and venues, playing taxi driver, organising events, updating social media websites or setting up interviews – I am the ‘it girl’. I love what I do because although I’m paid purely in love (ha ha ha), I also gain an enormous amount of industry exposure, experience and entry to concerts, gigs and events! I’ve been lucky enough so far to rub shoulders with KC & JoJo, Boys II Men, Chingy, Spawnbreezie, Swiss, Aaradhna and Savage just to name a few.

Working with the label and with my previous job at FLAVA radio, I am able to put into practise what I learn through studying and take what I’ve learnt through working and put it back into what I’m studying! #WINWIN EVENTS - I’ve played a role in so many events over the last 2 years that it’s hard to keep count. At the end of 2012 I was given the opportunity to run a night club and create my own promotions company. Purple Diamond Promotions was born and it’s only up from here! Keep an eye out for my events and be sure to show your support. I am always on the look out to help up and coming promo people, photographers, artists and more from Unitec to give others the chance at networking and making their way into one of the most entertaining and rewarding industries on the planet.

Last but not least I am the mother to a beautiful little boy called Kingston. He is the cutest, funniest and most intelligent child I know (of course I would say that though right?) and he is my best friend. Some of you may have read my 2012 blog entitled ‘Parental Rant’, in which I discussed the topic of teenage pregnancy. I was a teen parent and to be honest, I wouldn’t change a thing. I managed to prove the statistics wrong by giving birth to my child, finding a job, gaining a scholarship, studying and raising my child. I may not be the best parent on the planet but he never goes without and he is the apple of my eye!

So there you have it – my life story in a nutshell. Now there is no reason for any student on this campus to wonder who JEY is.

There is no reason for you to wonder whether or not to say hello to me when passing by; DO IT! I am generally a happy person (just don’t ask me to share my food and you’ll be sweet lol) and love to hear from other students about what they’re up to.

HOLLAH!

16

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

GIG GUIDE

monday 25 feBruary

WedneSday 27 feBruary

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

Live Band & CuLturaL PerformanCe & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub

the uniteC Game ShoW & free LunCh 12:30pm The Hub

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

WheeL of fear & free BBq 12:30pm Bldg 1

free BBq 12:30pm Bldg 1 Waitakere CamPuS

WheeL of fear & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard

Waitakere CamPuS

the uniteC Game ShoW & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard

northern CamPuS

Let’S CarPooL – remote control car racing & free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

northern CamPuS

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

tueSday 26 feBruary

thurSday 28 feBruary

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

northern CamPuS

WheeL of fear & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub

WheeL of fear 12.30pm Café Courtyard

monday 4 marCh

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

roCk, PaPer, SCiSSorS & free BBq 12:30pm Bldg 1 Let’S CarPooL – remote control car racing & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard free LunCh 12:30pm Café Courtyard

201

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

Waitakere CamPuS

northern CamPuS

u n i t eC o r i e

Let’S CarPooL – remote control car racing & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

the uniteC Game ShoW & free BBq 12:30pm Bldg 1 Waitakere CamPuS

eatinG ComPetition & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard northern CamPuS

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

y – 16 Mawrwc.u 25 Febrrueainrfo visit: w for mo

tueSday 5 marCh

W

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

GLadiator ChaLLenGe & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

eatinG ComPetition & free BBq 12:30pm Bldg 1 Waitakere CamPuS

money or the BaG & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard

northern CamPuS

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

tueSday 26 feBruary van WiLder rated r16

time for aLL movieS: 7:30Pm - 10:30Pm

tueSday 5 marCh man on a LedGe rated m

mt aLBert CamPuS uniteC Gate 3-4, CarrinGton rd, mt aLBert on the fieLdS Behind BLdG 183.

tueSday 12 marCh my BeSt friend’S GirL rated r16

For More inFo and a Map go to WWW.uniteC.aC.nz/Current-StudentS

CominG Soon monday 18 marCh

t

m

W

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

taBLe tenniS ComPetition 12pm-1pm The Hub Uni Lounge Register to play at the fishbowl (180-1004) in the Hub, or email: clubsandsport@unitec.ac.nz

n

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

GIG GUIDE

thurSday 7 marCh

thurSday 14 marCh

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

CLuBS day 10am-3pm The Hub

northern CamPuS

roCk, PaPer, SCiSSorS 12:30pm Café Courtyard

monday 11 marCh

17

amazinG raCe 10am-4pm Register at The Hub

friday 15 marCh mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

amazinG raCe 10am-4pm Register at The Hub

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

roCk, PaPer, SCiSSorS 12:30pm The Hub

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

money or the BaG 12:30pm Bldg 1 Waitakere CamPuS

Giant GameS 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard

tueSday 12 marCh

entation

13

ch

rrentunitec.ac.nz/cu

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

ChoPStiCk ChaLLenGe & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

Giant GameS 12:30pm Bldg 1

students

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

money or the BaG & free BBq 12:30pm The Hub

WedneSday 13 marCh mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

free BBq Let’S CarPooL – remote control car racing 12:30pm Bldg 1

Waitakere CamPuS

ChoPStiCk ChaLLenGe & free BBq 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard northern CamPuS

amazinG raCe 10am-4pm 12:30pm Commons Area northern CamPuS

WedneSday 6 marCh

mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

Waitakere CamPuS

eatinG ComPetition& free BBq 12:30pm The Hub Waitakere CamPuS

roCk, PaPer, SCiSSorS 12:30pm Level 1 Courtyard northern CamPuS

amazinG raCe 10am-4pm Café Courtyard

GLadiator ChaLLenGe & free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

Saturday 16 marCh featurinG

katChafire tahuna BreakS Pieter t dduB SoLa roSa Weird toGether tyra hammond unknoWn PeaCe nina mcSWeeney

CuLturaL PerformanCeS

10:30am-8:30Pm mt aLBert CamPuS uniteC Gate 3, CarrinGton rd, mt aLBert

free for uniteC StudentS (TICKET BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL)

$10 for public tickets KIdS uNdER 12 FREE

Book tiCketS at

WWW.daShtiCketS.Co.nz

tueSday 19 marCh

WedneSday 20 marCh

thurSday 21 marCh

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

mt aLBert CamPuS - the huB

northern CamPuS

PooL ComPetition 12pm-1pm The Hub Uni Lounge Register to play at the fishbowl (180-1004) in the Hub, or email: clubsandsport@unitec.ac.nz

Waitakere CamPuS

free BBq 12pm-1pm Level 1 Courtyard

northern CamPuS

money or the BaG 12:30pm-1pm Café Courtyard

internationaL food day 10am-2pm The Hub

Tantalise your tastebuds with a variety of food from all around the world! It’s free to have a stall, so come represent your country.

For more info email experiencenz@unitec.ac.nz mt aLBert CamPuS - BLdG 1

free BBq 12:30pm Bldg1

northern CamPuS

eatinG ComPetition 12:30pm Café Courtyard

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

friday 22 marCh northern CamPuS

free BBq 12:30pm Café Courtyard

18

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

FEATURE

U O R Y O E F AR EADY R

STAGE

BAR

INTERACTIVE ZONE

Bar opens at 12pm

FOOD STALLS

MARKETS

Kids Day Out Zone Open 10.30am-4.30pm Featuring child-friendly rides and entertainment

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

Don't

19

FEATURE

forget

ticket your

!

a download .nz still need to kets.co u ic yo t t h u s b , a ww.d students Go to w for Unitec Sun is FREE e th in s ) d Soun y is limited y ue capacit mber hand ticket! (ven dent ID nu u St ec it n U r u *have yo h each re $10 ilable wit ickets a ree are ava th ust be Public t m to n p u re free, and kets. Child re ic a T 2 1 sh r a e D ed from r kids und download Tickets fo day. hased or rc u p try on the t n e e t adult tick dult to ge a g in ld o et-h with a tick

FESTIVAL CHECKLIST We want to help you make the most of your day at Sounds in the Sun this year, so take a quick peek at our checklist:

if you Ticket- Yes you need a ticket. Go to www.dashtickets.co.nz s. student Unitec for free don't have one. Tickets are I.D to Your I.D- As per most musical festivals you will need an s, purchase alcohol from the bar. So to prevent any disappointment make sure you have yours!

Unopened bottles of water- to keep you hydrated times.

at all

its ‘four Rain and Sun Protection- Auckland is notorious for SLOP, SLIP, to forget don’t So, r. weathe kinda seasons in one day’ gear your all have you sure make and day the out through SLAP sussed before you leave home. only Charge Your Mobile Phone- Don’t get caught out with your sure make and out it Suss day. the for life battery of one bar mobile devices are ready to rock through out the day. taken Bring your Happy Face- there will be plenty of photos ready. poses smiling your got have you sure make on the day so

entry

Leave At Home Just so you know, the following items will definitely see you REFUSED ENTRY to this year’s festival: Alcohol- We have a massive bar on site with more than enough of this for the event.

Glass Containers are a hazard to everyone!

WWW.SOUNDSINTHESUN.CO.NZ OR SEARCH 'UNITEC STUDENT MEDIA' ON FACEBOOK

Animals other than guide dogs are not allowed at Sounds in the Sun.

20

MUSIC INTERVIEWS

orientation 2013

SOLA ROSA Sola Rosa front man Andrew Spraggon has an outstanding reputation in NZ music which dates back well over a decade. Spraggon has weaved together a team of familiar names and new faces, to help provide his trademark soul and funk sound behind Sola Rosa’s new album Low and Behold, High and Beyond. We caught up with Andrew for a quick chat to find out a little bit more about this much anticipated album, the inspiration behind it and of course to find out what kinda vibe he will be adding to the Sounds in the Sun festival this year.

This new album has a fresh soulful funk sound element to it and we are spoilt for vocal choice - with Olivier Daysoul, L.A. Mitchell, Spikey Tee and Miles Bonny; they all sound amazing. Can you tell us how the collaboration with Olivier Daysoul came about?

Sure thing. I originally heard Olivier through a website called Moovmnt. He features on loads of great tracks by artisits I really dig such as Eric Lau, Oddisee, Hudson Mohawke , Onra etc. I simply contacted him via his website and sent him some demos. He was really enthusiastic and a total pro to work with. We just finished a video for the Promise track which should be out soon. You’ll no doubt see more collaboration with him and Sola Rosa in the future.

Can you give us a little insight in to your writing/ recording process?

It’s changed over the years. Originally it was just me, a computer, software, some synths a turntable and stacks of vinyl. Over the years I started to work with other musicians and out of that the band took shape. These days it’s more collaborative, with the band especially - and many other musicians both local and from overseas.

Next album I’d maybe like to keep it in house with just the band, guest vocalists and a few additional muso’s. Partly to prove I can keep it simple and partly because recording an album and keeping it live (as in real players) is an extremely expensive process in this day and age. Sad but true.

For students who have yet to see you play live before, what should they expect from your set at Sounds In The Sun? We dig in to all genres but mostly our main influence is funk, soul (new and old) and hip-hop – even though we don’t have any rappers in the band, hip-hop is a big influence musically speaking. There’s tinges of reggae, jazz and Latin as well. We’ve played a lot of shows over the past 10 years including tours in the UK, Europe, USA, Australia and of course NZ so we must be doing something right. Come check it out.

We aim to please.

TAHUNA BREAKS Tahuna Breaks is an uplifting reggae, funk, soul band based in Auckland.

After a four year hiatus, Tahuna Breaks returns with an eagerly anticipated new album and a busy nationwide tour that kicks off in April. Student Media was fortunate enough to grab a few moments from Marty Greentree, Tahuna Breaks' lead singer.

We are super excited to hear that your third album, Shadow Light, is due to drop on March 22- can you give us some insight in to what we should expect from this album? ‘ Shadow Light will Funkin-Pop, Disco-Soul, a cheeky chuckle, some light reflection, a couple big nights and a hangover.

What three things will fans be most surprised to know about you all?

We have our own private Leer Jet We are paid up members of a secret society called the ‘Ilumanati’ Adam Fuhr (Keys) has a tail Can you let us know what music you have been blaring this summer?

Katy Perry Teenage Dream, Taylor Swift and that Call Me Maybe song For students who have yet to see you play live before, what should they expect from your set at Sounds In The Sun? A Funky Pony, a bit of zumba, aerobics, tai-bo and jazzercise some big tunes and all the hits you don’t know.

Describe NZ music in five words or less…

Honest, unique, geographical, underrated, optimistic.

Describe NZ music in five words or less…

Ah yeah, pretty tasty eh.

How will you spend the rest of your summer?

Playing shows, writing new material with the band, planning overseas tours, getting remixes done, doing remixes for other people, trips to the beach, bbqs (now that ours is fixed) and hopefully some quality time with my girl and 2 kids.

How will you spend the rest of your summer?

Playing Gigs, releasing an album and touring.

For more information about Sola Rosa: www.solarosa.com

For more details about the new Tahuna Breaks Album ‘Shadow Light’ check out the review on: www.unitecstudentmedia.co.nz

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

STUDENT PROFILE

EC IT AL N UHN O I T A N R E T ROUGH AN IN EYES...

T

ST U D E N T S '

Shweta Shetty is an Indian international student embarking on her journey towards a Postgraduate Diploma in International Communication at Unitec.

Being an International Student is a feeling that keeps you in a very funny but interesting state.

When I came to New Zealand 5 months back I was filled with all different kinds of feelings. My acceptance as well as resistance level was at its peak, my nervousness had crossed all limits and I had no clue where my confidence was standing.

This is how I felt entering Unitec for my first semester.

The first thing that surprised me at Unitec was my course schedule. As I was a Post Graduate student I had classes for just two days in a week and surprisingly no examinations. In addition to that on the first day I was given a book of readings, which I thought was the only reading material for the semester. Believe me; I danced with joy when I saw this schedule and the material. I was so sure that the semester would be easy for me. But how wrong was I!! It was only after I attended my first class I understood how much preparation I needed to do before one lecture. And the book of readings was just

from China, Srilanka, Vietnam, South Africa, New Zealand and India, and learning from a Russian teacher. I said to myself that I wouldn’t have found an environment with more knowledge than this to study this course.

My admiration kept on growing as the semester continued and as we, the class - went through different projects and assignments.

It happened because all the projects and assignments were designed in a way which would make our class a team and which would give us an experience similar to the professional world. The Communication department organised for guest speakers in our lectures, who were professionals in their respective fields. After attending these lectures I started believing in the advertisements of Unitec in which they say “It doesn’t matter where you study, but from whom you study matters”.

It was not just the education, which impressed me, but being a communication student, the way Unitec communicates with the

It doesn’t matter where you study, but from whom you study matters”. an example of what needed to be read. So practically the readings never end and neither does the learning you get from it.

While my first week passed in realisation, the following weeks passed in pure admiration.

Initially I was very much engrossed in myself, struggling to understand the kiwi accent and coping with the new pattern of study. However, I eventually realised the surroundings I was studying in.

One of the subjects I had opted for was Intercultural Communication. I realised, I was actually sitting in a class of 12 students who were

staff, the students and the potential students also impressed me during this semester. And I was fortunate enough to understand all the hard work going behind this communication process during a lecture given by the Corporate Communication Head of Unitec.

If I have to sum up my experience of first semester at Unitec, I would say that Unitec has given me confidence to stand up and present myself in my own field. After being associated with Unitec for five months, I believe in the tagline of Unitec “We make the people who make it”.

23

unitec

ENOUGH BILLS ON YOUR PLATE? THEN BUY YOUR TEXTBOOKS SECOND HAND, OR SELL THE ONES YOU NO LONGER NEED, AND GET SOME EXTRA CASH IN YOUR POCKET!

GO TO WWW.UNITEC.AC.NZ/BUYSELL

STUDENT PROFILE

FILO FATAI

UP CLOSE AN

D PERSONAL

…

Filo Fatai is a mature student hailing from the Kingdom of Tonga and is one paper away from completing his Bachelor of Business degree. I met up with him during summer school to find out a little bit more about his journey here at Unitec.

What were you doing previous to Unitec?

I used to work in the Logistic and Warehousing for the last 18 years. The last company I worked for had a few problems when the recession hit in 20092010, and [they] decided to move to Tauranga and I was unable to relocate with them. So with my family; I made the big decision to go back to school.

And I decided to study at Unitec. I heard lots of good stories about Unitec and how it was more hands on and more practical, a nice place and very close [as a location].

Tell me more about your experience at Unitec.

My experience with Unitec has been pretty good. I have experienced most of the things I was hoping for, and am satisfied with what I have got; especially with the lecturers and the resources.

Considering I had been in the work force for many years, and as a Pacific Island student, I have had a lot of help here. There a lot of people that have jobs to help the Pacific students and they are very helpful and approachable.

financial security and freedom for the family.

My two sons are nine and two years old. My studies have definitely had an impact on my nine year old him. Every time I do my assignments at home, he has started to do his homework too and he asks me questions now. I think the importance of education is really secure in his young mind now, and that’s really important as it’s like an investment in to the future.

How have your friends and co-workers reacted to the fact that you were going back to studying?

They were very supportive and some were surprised; a bouncer doing a degree in business management. Some have said that I’ve set a lesson for them and some of them have told me that they’ve decided to go back to school. And I’ve told them “knowledge is power”.

Were there any negative comments made about this change?

The first semester of being at Unitec was a little bit challenging as I had been away from the classroom for many years. As the first semester went along I started to get things in order and I used my experience from the work place; that helped a lot!

I had one comment from a good friend of mine.

He wanted me to apply for a job at his work place, as there was a job available. In my first year of studies, he said I shouldn’t study and apply for this job. “Three and a half years is a really long time”.

But I said, “Maybe, but I’ll take my chance and I’ll give it ago. And I m still not over 50’s yet so…” (laughs) Apart from that, it was all positive.

Do you have any advice for other mature, Pacific Island students?

How do you feel about yourself, what changes can you see in yourself since you first started?

Did you encounter any challenges along the way?

It’s basically about your attitude to study. You are never too old to study!

Studies are not only for young people! There are no limitations for people to learn and gain knowledge!

For Pacific Island students my advice is to focus and work hard!

Do you have any study tips for P.I. students that are juggling work, family and church? How do you manage?

The main thing for me is to prioritise my time and make a plan and timetable otherwise you are gonna be stuck for sure…especially us mature Pacific students that have families and work.

Also ask questions in your lectures if you are unsure about anything.

Don’t go along with the doubt as you will end up doing something else instead of what the lecturers are looking for. But the main thing for us with families, work and church is to make a plan.

I have a part time job at the weekends and I must prioritise my time.

I work part time on the weekend as a bouncer in a nightclub in the city.

During the week I study for about 5- 6 hours a day at Unitec as Saturday and Sunday are set aside for the family. I don’t do any studies on these days.

What sort of impact has your studies here at Unitec had on your family and community?

When we decided that I would go back to school, we knew that the short term of this decision would impact upon us financially but the long term benefits of gaining knowledge and graduating with a degree would bring

I realise that my knowledge and my perception of life has changed. I can see a lot of things that I’d never seen before. My knowledge has increased in terms of business and concepts, companies, employment, human behaviour and I can see my opportunities that I can get. And I can see my potential that I didn’t think I could get before and I’ve learned a lot about business and life in general.

As a father I can understand the behaviour of my family especially my children. There is not just one way to handle things, I can understand the family members, the way they think. I can help my family in terms of discipline and learning. And it’s very easy for me to look at a problem and be able to think of another way to solve it as a father and a husband.

Anything else you want to share?

I just want to emphasise the fact that things keep changing in the work force in terms of new technology and companies forming and companies closing, to be able to compete in the work force you need to study. And other things that I want to emphasise to students, is that when you finish and apply for a job, in the last 25 years maybe only five people applied for the job but not these days. Now you apply for a job after you graduate and there will be another 40 students. So whoever has the edge will be more likely to get the job, so it’s very competitive out there. It is very important to get the work experience but also very very important to get the piece of paper, the certificate. Therefore we need to be vigilant at school.

23

Do you think you have what it takes to become the unitec 2013 amazing Race champion? then get ReaDy foR the Race of a lifetime!

Race against the clock at a time that suits you, allow 30 mins+ RegisteR at the event between 10am-4pm

coming to a campus neaR you...

Waitakere Campus: Tuesday 12 March 2013 (Register at the Level 1 Courtyard ) NortherN Campus: Wednesday 13 March 2013 (Register at the Cafe Courtyard) mt albert Campus: Thursday 14 & Friday 15 March 2013 (Register at the Hub)

online veRsion: go to www.unitec.ac.nz/amazingRace anytime monDay 11th - fRiDay 15th maRch

FoR MoRe inFo visiT:

www.unitec.ac.nz/amazingrace DELIVERED BY...

image just representative, actual prizes may differ

usu Students’Association at Unitec

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

STUDENT PROFILE

25

i & dallas spring 2nd year twins nick first year and see look back on their how far they've come

I K IheC N lor of communications bac 2nd Year Bachelor of Communications student Nicki Spring looks back on her first year at Unitec and shares some DO’s and Don’ts: do make friends with your classmates; don’t get drunk and face plant on the way to class.

Hi! Hello. How are you? Me? I’m great, thanks for asking!

To kick things off on a high note I say welcome! Welcome back returning students. Welcome to Unitec to the “new students” and to my fellow Comms kids—what’s crackin’? And how was your break?

I’m Nicki Spring and I’m returning now for my second year as a Bachelor of Communication student. But that’s neither here nor there, I wanna tell you all a little about my first year here at Unitec…and boy, was it a year like no other.

Straight off the bat, I was a little intimidated. Like a lot of you, I was moving away from home for the first time and stepping up and taking control of my own life without mum and dad. I’m not going to lie, those first few weeks saw a few phone calls and a whole mess of texts to my parents— but it didn’t last. Eventually I fell into a grove of sorts, you know, 8:30am classes aside.

I learned a lot of things about myself through this course—and a lot of stuff too. It started off with simple things: set an alarm, take a drink bottle, remembering to pack lunch and more important things: the new movie that was coming out on the day my assignment was due, the Unitec event I planned to go to or my mate's 19th Birthday.

If you take anything away from this I pray, for your sake, that it’s the need to prioritise—time manage, organise. Which means don’t wait for the last minute! I am a master procrastinator and I learned the hard way how dire proper time management skills are. Just because the assignment isn’t due until 5pm Friday evening, don’t wait until 5pm Thursday night to begin— that twenty hours will mean nothing when you’re ripping your hair out at 4pm because you fell asleep.

On a lighter note, the greatest thing you take away with you—after knowledge, of course, are the relationships you make, the friendships and those that extend to your lecturers. They may be the wielders of all knowledge in the courses they’re teaching, but they are also people. They are going to take the time to learn your names, they’ll spare a moment if you’re having trouble and they’re approachable too, as are most of your class mates too. Need I remind you, you are studying at tertiary level now? There is no segregation, no us and them. Comms Kids—or peeps, stick together and help each other out—we’re a pretty tight bunch too.

Lastly, because this is Nicki’s, ‘Do as I say and not as I do’ diatribe, do not face plant outside of your building ten minutes before you start class.

It hurts, it scars and it ruins your favourite pair of jeans…and you still have to go to class. So, don’t get too drunk. Don’t attempt to go to the gym after tertiary challenge. Do not wear that dress your ex-best friend insisted was hot and don’t be something you’re not.

Do, however, get involved; mingle with people outside of the class.

Maybe drop by the village and meet some international students. Life has enough hang-ups, so enjoy your studies. My first year passed by in a second and in that time I met amazing people who let me be me and learn as much as they could teach me. The opportunities are there for everybody. So sit back, buckle- up and enjoy the ride.

That is all Peace!

AS LLapp DA lied science elor of

bach

Animal Welfare student, Dallas Spring, shares some wisdom she picked up in her first year for all you newbies: focus more and do not leave anything to the last minute.

I am a Bachelor of Applied Science – Animal Welfare student at Unitec and have just completed my first year. Doing a science degree was always a no brainer for me, I have always had an interest in animals and helping animals, and to me animal science seemed the route to take to fulfil that interest, although I’m pretty sure my high school biology teacher would have something else to say. Considering in high school my twin sister was the better one at anything science- my teachers would be thoroughly surprised.

Over the last year I have learnt a few things that I never would have found interesting, like learning the basic in’s and out’s of native plants, yeah I know that sounds boring to most but once I got started I found it relatively interesting!

I mean, I’ve always had an interest in anatomy of animals hence why completing a degree in Animal Welfare made sense but of course the other half of that degree is on Biodiversity and every lecturer I’ve had this year has said that majority of Animal Welfare students (which is majority of the class) will switch to the Biodiversity major.

Completing my first year now I feel like I’ve learnt so much, but I could have learnt so much more had I been more focused; especially in the second semester. The second semester I found to be so much harder. Although by semester two, I had settled into Unitec so the idea of missing a lecture or two wasn’t really all that daunting to me especially when most of the notes and power points were on Moodle to peruse later.

Advice: If I could go back now and do anything differently, I would focus more and not do anything in the last minute. Especially when I try to do a long term assignment like Plant Form & Function’s Herbarium assignment or an Ecology lab assignment but I’m pretty sure every student would echo the same thing.

26

STUDENT PROFILES

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

1 BUILDING PROFILES On the eve of Unitec Grad Fest 2012, Student Media cornered five excited students in the back room of the Hub bookstore as they waited for their work to be printed for the big event. Check out their words of advice for new students…

shanti trusewich

celine soniega

Course: BAS + Master of Architecture

Course: BAS + Master of Architecture

(Prof )

(Prof )

Where to from here?

Travelling around the world – London, Paris, Germany, Rome – getting to see everything I’ve been reading about for five years!

Dream Job: Designing and building sustainable, affordable buildings and furniture; because everyone should have access to healthy living environments. Also helping out at architecture for humanity.

Words of advice for new students: Get to know your tutors; they are awesome and it will make the difference between liking and loving a paper.

Spend all your time in studio, it’s where you’ll meet your best friends, learn the most, and your projects will be so much better for it!

Where to from here?

Travelling. Practice architecture and design.

Dream Job: Designing sustainable architecture that develops over time and expresses the different layers of time.

Words of advice for new students: Explore other areas of design and use it as material for creating architecture. Don’t be too worried about designing “architecture” like in magazines or blogs. Experimenting with different concepts and materials is more fun and interesting to do, and you will never get bored.

Year: 2nd year (final)

kristen grow

Year: 2012

Name: Kristen Grow & Aiden Thornhill Course: Bachelor of Design (Interior Design)

Year: 3 - Graduating

aiden thornhill

Where to from here?

KC: Applying for jobs overseas – Perth and Sydney (Perth has a growing industry) AT: Cross credit into architecture and find a job or internship.

KC: Thanks to Dr Susan Hedges – amazing tutor, puts all her effort into each student's work!

lucinda merris Course: Bachelor of Design and Visual Arts (Photography) Year: 3 - Graduating Where to from here?

Working as a sports club and school photographer as well as free lancing.

Dream Job: Doing photography of my choice – personal work, weddings, portraiture, fashion.

Words of advice for new students: Stay true to your own ideas/concepts for your work – don’t just always do what the tutors like. At the end of your degree it’s better to have a portfolio that you love and you are proud of, rather than one that isn’t you.

Dream Job: KC: Retail designer/larger project events design AT: Naval architecture and design; designing super yachts Words of advice for new students: KC: Research what you love and expand your mind. Try to create something new weekly to inform your work process.

AT: Don’t be a sheep; be a white lion and design what you love. People look for your taste and flare.

STUDENTS’

ASSOCIATION AT UNITEC

28

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

FEATURE

my

icecream

review

unitec

confessions Finally a fun and safe place online to post your anonymous thoughts about life at Unitec without all the ridicule and backlash.

Name: Marieke Esveld Studying: Bachelor of Communications Ice Block: Magnum Strawberry White

Name: Nathan Ganly Studying: Bachelor of Computing Systems

Cost: $3.90

Crumble

Ice Block: Cornetto Vanilla & Chocolate Cost: $3.60

What are your first thoughts?

Like strawberry shortcake with crunchy bits.

What are your first thoughts?

Tastes really good on a hot summers day!

Describe the taste in three words: Girly, summery deliciousness.

Describe the taste in three words: Raspberry, chocolate amazingness.

How long did the fun last?

10 minutes – as long as it took me to eat it!

How long did the fun last?

5 minutes.

Satisfaction factor 1 out of 5?

5; totally mouth-gasmic!

Satisfaction factor 1 out of 5?

4.

Final thoughts: Improved only by real bits of strawberry (will buy another just to be sure).

Final thoughts: There should be more free ice creams at Unitec.

What are your first thoughts?

Oh my god…it has peanuts in it. I don’t like peanuts, lol.

Describe the taste in three words: Hit the spot!

How long did the fun last?

It’s been 5 minutes since I took the last bite and I want another one. Does that count as an answer?

Name: Jey Johnston Studying: Bachelor of Communications

Ice Block: Memphis Meltdown Big Brownie

Cost: $3.00

Satisfaction factor 1 out of 5?

5/5. It was amazing, peanuts and all. Right size and amount of everything.

Final thoughts: I’ve had the caramel Memphis meltdown before and every time I eat it I sit and regret it – it’s so sickly. This time that wasn’t the case – looks like I have a new fave!

#1 I really like catching the shuttle from Waitakere to Mt Albert in the mornings because of this hot chick who’s always on it… you know who you are ;)

#2 Umm… I just started at Unitec and don’t have any friends yet. #3 My library books are still in my car from last semester. FML!!

Do you have a secret crush on your classmate and want to tell the world…but not get found out? Do you have an embarrassing story that’s too good not to share?

Submit your confessions anonymously online at the Student Media website: www.unitec.ac.nz/studentmedia Look for the My Unitec Confessions tab FYI: • No names • Keep it friendly - No trolling, bullying or malicious banter • Confessions will monitored by the student media team before being published

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

FEATURE

INTERNATIONAL

FOOD

DAY & UNIJET EXCHANGE FAIR Wednesday 20 March

1 0 a m - 2 p m i n t h e H u b (bldg 180)

recipe

sangria 1 bottle of cheap white or red wine 3/4 cup apple juice 1/2 cup orange juice 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1 lemon, thinly sliced, with peel 1/2 lime, thinly sliced, with peel 1 medium orange, thinly sliced, with peel 1 apple, cored, sliced into 8ths, with peel 1 black plum, thinly sliced, with peel 2-3 cups lemonade, to taste Directions Combine the fruits, juices and wine in a large jug. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, overnight preferably, but for those of you that can’t be bothered, be warned, it tastes so much better when you let it sit blah blah blah…apparently time helps the flavors to combine.

Anyway, just before you serve it to your thirsty guest, add lemonade, top it up with a handful of ice and stir together.

BOOM!

FOOd We LOVe InternatIOnaL ger day and thIs year It’s bIg FOre! and better than eVer be s with a tantalise your tastebud l around variety of food from al the world! hange atIOnaL exc n r e t In t e IJ Un abroad for FaIr t studying

learn abou a semester ntatives from rese • meet rep rtner institutions p have unitec’s a udents who st c e it n u ies • talk to ther countr studied in o t uniJet abou • find out s sh scholar ip

•

to register A stAll, email experiencenz@unit ec.ac.nz www.unitec.ac.nz/curr ent-students

DELIVERED BY...

30

PUZZLES

WORD FIND

ORI E NTATION 2 0 1 3

SUDOKU

hit

music

NOW

DELIVERED BY...