You’re studying both Law and Arts - sounds like you’re making the most of your time at uni! What do you hope to do once you’ve graduated?
I currently want to practice corporate law, and I’m considering only focusing on Māori businesses. That’s where my Māori & Indigenous Studies degree will come in. I wanted to enhance what I already knew about Te Ao Māori. I think there’s always the need for more Māori lawyers, to have that point of view represented.
Why did you choose to study at UC?
UC was the obvious choice, as I’ve lived in Ōtautahi my whole life and I could continue living at home. I knew a lot of staff that worked for UC Māori, so I felt comfortable having that support. I also received a few scholarships that solidified my decision.
What scholarships did you receive, and how did they help you?
The Takere scholarship enabled me to stay in the halls for five weeks prior to starting uni starting. It was a great opportunity to get that hall experience and ease my transition to uni.
The Te Kakau a Māui scholarship covered full fees for one undergraduate degree, and is what enabled me to do my double degree. I also received the UC Kaupeka Ture | Faculty of Law First Year Award for Excellence and the UC Hiranga scholarship.
How did you connect with UC Māori before starting at UC, and how did that help you?
I had met some of them through UC Māori coming to schools, as well as through the Aukaha programme, which lets Tau 10 and 12 students come to campus and learn about degrees and uni life. I also knew a few of the staff through personal connections. It made the transition way easier, and it was a big source of comfort knowing I had that support available. I also went to UC Māori’s scholarship writing sessions, where they had students read over our applications and give us tips – that was really helpful.
Do you have other connections and support on campus?
We get weekly meetings with the Kaiurungi as part of the Takere scholarship, which is like a checkup to see how we’re doing and if we need anything. UC Māori is always there when I’m stressed out, or need help with even little stuff. I’ve also started a casual role doing mahi for them.
How do you find the Māori community within UC and Ōtautahi?
There’s a lot of overlap. When there are kaupapa Māori events in the city, I see everyone I know there. It’s nice knowing we all align with the same beliefs and passions. And I just competed in the Waitaha Regional kapa haka – that’s another event that you see a lot of Māori people at, also those from around campus. It’s cool to see familiar faces from uni in places that I’m already comfortable in.
