Studying towards a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Mechanical Engineering
Studying an Engineering degree has been fulfilling for Joel so far, as he has been able to follow his passions.
"I have always had a good base in maths and physics and a genuine curiosity for how the world works; these made Engineering the obvious choice for me," he says. "Mechanical Engineering sparked interest in me the most. How and why machines work is something that really intrigues me which is why the mechanical discipline was the right fit."
Joel looks forward to finding a mechanical engineering field he is particularly passionate about, and will take further into his studies and onto a career in the industry.
"The Engineering School here is fantastic and I enjoy the challenge of the degree. It's awesome knowing that the effort I’m putting in now will set me up for a rewarding life."
Enrolling with an Emerging Leaders' Scholarship, Joel also has the added bonus of taking part in leadership skills development workshops, and community projects with other scholarship winners.
He spends a lot of his spare time playing sports, including rugby, cricket, and touch, which made UC an ideal university for him.
"The campus at UC has a much nicer feel than a lot of other campuses in urban settings. It's an awesome part of the country, the mountains and beaches are super close," he says.
Originally from North Canterbury, Joel decided on staying at Rochester and Rutherford Hall for his first year, to be nearby campus.
"Driving from home would have been a hike, and I had been told it is an awesome environment to do well and meet some awesome new people," he says.
"The highlight for me personally has definitely been the mates I've made, halls are a great place to surround yourself with like-minded people that make your halls experience amazing."
As a House Captain for R&R, Joel also helps organise social events and activities for fellow students.
He strongly encourages other students outside of the region to consider living at one of UC's halls of residence.
"Go for it! You meet an amazing group of people and the services they offer take a lot of the weight off of your shoulders."
"Another piece of advice I would give is to choose the hall that fits the person you are, get a feel for the hall environment and culture, rather than just the physical amenities provided."
