Jon Gaviola

Why did you choose to come to UC? 

I first came to UC for the Master of Science in Disaster Risk and Resilience in 2018. UC was a strategic choice because I was always inclined to do a PhD, and UC’s Master offers a research component. Returning to UC for my PhD was also an easy decision because I’d had great support during my Master’s, the doctoral scholarship application was straightforward and the decision swift, and I already had a strong social connection and network at UC.

What do you like about your PhD programme at UC? 

UC’s Disaster Risk and Resilience Group is truly interdisciplinary. We combine physical sciences and social science to understand what’s driving the disaster losses in our communities and the world in general. Our research group consists of highly diverse individuals, including engineers, social scientists, physical scientists, and even lawyers.

These different backgrounds really contribute to the ways we think and approach specific questions. My research is mainly about understanding the practices of Filipino migrant worker communities and how to make them more resilient to disasters in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

What is the wellbeing support like for international students?  

There is a lot of support across UC, including a dedicated international support team. I also heavily used the UC Rec Centre to maintain and promote my physical health, as well as the Health Centre, which is easily accessible for everything from flu vaccines to mental health support. The counsellors helped me navigate periods of homesickness and adjustment. Just knowing there are all these types of support available really made a difference for me. 

Are there any academic support services that you found particularly helpful? 

Coming from a different style of learning back home, the Academic Skills Centre was really helpful in training me on the style of writing, studying, and presenting here. They also helped in terms of checking that I did my assignments correctly before submitting them. They’re very accessible and supportive; I really commend the quality of service they provide to international students. And the library is fantastic, especially as a researcher. They will look for whatever you need and get it to you.

How do you find life at UC? 

It’s a very enabling and supportive environment. I receive continuous support from my supervisor; we work really well together. That’s important to give you the highest chances of completing your PhD. Another aspect I really like is that there’s a strong Filipino community and a big rainbow community on campus. It’s easy to find your tribe and connect with others like you. Clubs are a big part of this. I’m involved with UC Filipino Society and the UC Filipino postgraduate community. I’ve been a part of those for a long time, so now I give back and provide support to new students by welcoming them and helping them adjust to their new environment. UC’s clubs and communities are great resources, especially for new students.

What do you like about life in Christchurch? 

Christchurch is very accessible to all the different scenic locations in the South Island. It’s like heaven for me. We don’t really have this kind of scenery back home. And there’s a big Filipino community in Christchurch. I’m a member of a large Filipino church community, and all my connections outside of university are based in that. It enabled me to meet a wider Filipino community here, from different walks of life. It’s quite inspiring to meet these people here in New Zealand. 

What do you get up to when you’re not studying? 

I live only a five minute drive from the beach, so I go there often during summer because that’s what I miss most about home. During the winter I love exploring the area around Mount Cook. Even just walking in Christchurch’s city centre is great. I really like exploring different types of food, and there are a lot of cool restaurants here. I also like going to music festivals and concerts; I’ve been to a bunch across New Zealand. 

How well do you think your degree is preparing you for a future career?

Career-wise, there are a lot of options for me after I finish my degree. Many graduates take up roles in local government, regional councils, and independent research consultancies, or work at places like the Ministry for the Environment or the National Emergency Management Agency. My supervisor said I also have the potential to take up space in the academic research field. I’ve really honed my critical thinking skills, which makes me competent in that highly competitive field. So the path I choose is up to me!

Would you recommend UC to other international students? 

Yes, definitely! I’d highly recommend UC. The quality of the education and the level of support provided by both academic and support staff is excellent, plus there’s a strong Filipino community on campus and in the wider city.