Bachelor of Health Sciences in Health Education
Physical Health Advisor, Rongoā Kākāriki | Green Prescription, Sport Canterbury
In her job within the Green Prescription team at Sport Canterbury, Olivia has the incredible opportunity to directly support and motivate others to be more active.
"I enjoy working on the ground level with people, face to face, and supporting them through their journey to positively influence their health and well-being. I also enjoy running physical activity sessions and facilitating discussions at our programmes," she says.
Olivia had first worked with Sport Canterbury during a final-year internship within her Health Sciences degree, which lead to being offered her current role.
"I would definitely recommend taking advantage of any internships offered as it allows you to practice what you are learning and get an insight into life after university. The internship opportunities allowed me to get my foot in the door within Sport Canterbury and gave me more of an insight into the health field as well as a hands-on experience."
When first choosing university studies, Olivia knew she wanted to go towards something in health and well-being, and found the non-clinical Health Sciences degree to be her ideal programme.
"The degree was broad enough to open up many options within the health field," she says.
Studying Health Education in particular gave her the skills and knowledge to promote healthy lifestyles and encourage good behaviour changes in others. She was also a member of the HealthSoc student's society when it was first established to be amongst other likeminded students.
"You become more than just a number within this degree. You get to know your lecturers and they get to know you," she says. "This opens up a great support network which is important throughout study and once you leave university. If you"re passionate about health and well-being and want to build your confidence, then this degree is definitely suited for you."
Looking onwards, Olivia hopes to come across new opportunities in the health industry to grow her expertise.
