Youre studying both Law and Arts - sounds like youre making the most of your time at uni! What do you hope to do once youve graduated?
I currently want to practice corporate law, and Im considering only focusing on Mori businesses. Thats where my Mori & Indigenous Studies degree will come in. I wanted to enhance what I already knew about Te Ao Mori. I think theres always the need for more Mori lawyers, to have that point of view represented.
Why did you choose to study at UC?
UC was the obvious choice, as Ive lived in tautahi my whole life and I could continue living at home. I knew a lot of staff that worked forUC Mori, 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?
啦堯梗泭Takere scholarshipenabled 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 Muischolarship 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 Excellenceand the UC Hiranga scholarship.
How did you connect with UC Mori before starting at UC, and how did that help you?
I had met some of them through UC Mori coming to schools, as well as through theAukaha 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 Moris 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 were doing and if we need anything. UC Mori is always there when Im stressed out, or need help with even little stuff. Ive also started a casual role doing mahi for them.
How do you find the Mori community within UC and tautahi?
Theres a lot of overlap. When there are kaupapa Mori events in the city, I see everyone I know there. Its nice knowing we all align with the same beliefs and passions. And I just competed in the Waitaha Regional kapa haka thats another event that you see a lot of Mori people at, also those from around campus. Its cool to see familiar faces from uni in places that Im already comfortable in.
