Who can I talk to if I don’t feel comfortable on my placement?
In the first instance, talk to your UC Contact for your WIL placement– this may be your Academic Supervisor, Placement Coordinator or Clinical Educator (depending on your programme).
What do I do if I’m asked to do something outside of the scope of my internship/placement?
Sometimes the scope of a project changes and adapts over time- and generally, that’s ok. If it aligns with the aims, goals and desired learning outcomes, it can be for your benefit, and being adaptable and flexible are great skills to have. Changes must be reasonable and not put you in a position you are not comfortable with.
If, however, you are asked to do something else which does not align at all with your project or goals, or it doesn’t feel right - that is not ok.
It is not appropriate for your Host organisation to ask you to advise on matters based on communities you are part of (i.e. religion), identity (ethnicity, culture, gender and sexuality) or your personal experience (background, socioeconomic position, mental health etc). Your lived experience and personal knowledge are your own, and it’s up to you if, where and how you share this.
If you have been asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, it is okay to say no or that you would prefer to check in with your UC Contact first.
What do I do if I am being bullied or experiencing harassment on my placement?
Talk to your UC Contact- they are there to help and support you. Under no circumstances is it acceptable if you experience bullying, harassment or discrimination of any kind.
I am feeling overwhelmed while on placement – is this normal? What can I do?
Students sometimes feel a variety of emotions during a placement, from excitement to apprehension and being overwhelmed – and that’s to be expected. Remember, if this is your first time in this type of environment, there is a lot going on, and it’s not like other courses which don’t involve a placement. You may be meeting new people, learning what the norms are for various aspects, completing new tasks, and understanding expectations. On top of this you amay be balancing other priorities like your other courses, paid employment, whānau, friends, hobbies etc. This can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed.
TIP: Take time to look at what your upcoming week looks like. Include all your required activities (placement, work, courses etc) as well as setting time aside for you to do the things you enjoy and help you to relax- this is the important part. Time management is going to be vital in helping you get through this time.
What can I wear?
This will depend on the organisation and type of work you will be doing - for example, if your placement involves outdoor education, a singlet and shorts may be a sensible choice; in a corporate or clinic setting, however, this wouldn't be appropriate, and you may instead opt for some long pants with a shirt, jersey or blazer. Also, consider health and safety when deciding what to wear - if you are working with machinery or kai, health and safety require covered-toe shoes, for example. If you're unsure on your first day, it’s a good idea to dress more formally to begin with while you get a sense of the dress code, or have a chat with your Host Contact before you start.
Can I apply for special consideration?
Yes of course. Undertaking a WIL course is like taking any other course and you are able to apply for special consideration. It is always a good idea to speak with your course coordinator in the first instance if, for some reason, your WIL experience has been impacted – there may be ways they can also support you.
Can I continue working at my placement?
This will depend on the placement and organisation and will be between you and the organisation to discuss. Have a chat with your Host Contact if you are interested in continuing to be involved, to see if it is possible. If you can – fantastic! Understand in what capacity – will it be in a paid or volunteer capacity?
If the organisation says no, this is a great time to seek feedback and understand the reasons why not – no doesn’t mean forever.
Do you have other questions which we haven't answered? We would be keen to hear from you.
