LeavingSchool2013

4 August 2013

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GREAT FUTURES START HERE

Become part of the engine of the new New Zealand.

For over 80 years Massey has been New Zealand’s defining and only truly national university for young New Zealanders; educating, shaping and inspiring minds.

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Massey University’s three state-of-the-art campuses in Albany, Manawatuˉ and Wellington (plus a leading distance learning programme), provide a world-class education, offering the largest number of degree programmes available at any university in New Zealand. With award-winning teachers and lecturers, and world-renowned researchers, we really are the engine of the new New Zealand.

We exude, foster and fuel positive change, propelling the best of our nation’s creatives, intellectuals and innovators into industry leading roles. At Massey University you don’t just get a degree – you come out with the practical skills to create a better future for New Zealand, and the world.

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MANAGING EDITOR Oliver Lee

EDITOR

Robyn Yousef

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Bonham Campbell Burnes Chelsea Blair David McDonald Diana Clement Peter O’Connor Dr Paul Pickering R. M. Wharton Tom Gerrard

PROOFREADER

Elise McDowell

Photography

Alan Stevens www.4pm.co.nz Photos New Zealand Thinkstock

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Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland 0740, New Zealand T: +64-9-486 6966 E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz W: www.oliverlee.co.nz

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS: Introduction from Tom Gerrard 4 NEW INDEPENDENCE: Lifestyle ideas from Peter O’Connor 6 FINANCIAL SCORE: Fiscal sense from Diana Clement 8 PROFILING: Exciting tool to help you find your career or study path 9 LEGAL CAREER: Opportunities in Law 10 TEACHING VOCATION: Fulfilling work 12 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Awesome future 13 SCHOLARSHIPS: Funding available 14 ENGINEERING: Overseas opportunities 16 MILITARY AND MEDICINE: Medical studies through army 17 STUDENT HOSTELS: Accommodation options 18 SCIENCE MEETS LAW: Combining degrees 20 GAP YEAR OR NOT? Should I stay or should I go? 21 YOUNG FASHION DESIGNERS: Sassy style divas 22 ONLINE LINKS: Helpful links with your study and work options 24 RURAL LIFE RULES: Vet revelling in his role 26 AG SCIENCE: Honours for country girl 29 SCHOOLCONNECT: Raft of careers information 30 SUPERMARKET SATISFACTION: Career opportunities in the grocery sector 31 STUDENT LOANS: Advice and tips 32 PREPARE A GREAT CV: Pointers for a standout CV 34 FIRST INTERVIEW: No second chance to make a first impression! 35 NEW ZEALAND CAREER COLLEGE: Helping students avoid falling through the cracks 36 GLAMOUR OF AVIATION: Up, up and away 38 SERVICE IQ: Work while you qualify 40 CREATIVITY IN HAIRDRESSING: Cutting edge career 41 AUTOMOTIVE AMBITION: Variety in scope of work 42 BENEFITS OF BUILDING: Boom times for carpenters 44 UP ON THE ROOF: Plenty of opportunities in the roofing trade 46

COPYRIGHT Reproduction in whole or part by any means is prohibited. DISCLAIMER The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.

leaving school | 4 August 2013

AN INTRODUCTION:

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS

by TOM GERRARD, ONZM I was delighted and flattered to be asked to write the introduction to this excellent publication for students preparing to experience the transition from school to the real world. It also provides sound and sensible ideas for parents.

It is essential that young people fully grasp the reality that they are emerging from a fairly sheltered environment to a world where they must embrace more self discipline.

4 Tom Gerrard, ONZM

Tom has been principal of Rosmini College in Takapuna for 36 years. He is the longest serving secondary school principal in

New Zealand.

Many things that we take for granted now become a personal challenge. Things like how to manage and acquire student loans, what scholarships are on offer, whether to choose science or arts subjects, how much time to devote to study and to leisure, how to choose suitable flatmates and whether it is affordable to live away from home.

Be optimistic For the many students heading straight to the work force jobs are not as plentiful as they once were. However, I encourage young people to be optimistic and set their sights on what they want to go for. Employers are, in the main, fairly astute and they often look for old-fashioned values. It is important to submit a concise and accurate CV and to present well for interviews.

Remember the value of appropriate dress, a firm handshake and a dash of humility. No-one owes you a living – you are there to offer your skills to enhance your employer’s business.

Make the most of what you are doing You don’t know exactly what you’re going to do or be interested in doing in the future; therefore, you don’t know what’s going to be useful in the present. So, it’s best to make the most of whatever you are doing, and get the best of any experience. There’s no such thing as the perfect job, so worry less about whether you’re in the right course or job, and instead do it as well as you can. Success tends to lead you to

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paths you couldn’t have imagined, especially in a world where a “job-for-life” is now untenable.

It doesn’t matter how talented, brilliant or skilled you are. Barring a few exceptions, most people who achieve anything of substance actually do work really hard at it.

People with the basic skills are becoming more valuable Didactic knowledge is getting cheaper. We are in an era where more and more people can access more knowledge in 30 seconds with a smartphone than previous generations could ever have dreamed. However, people with skills in problem-solving, written and oral communication, meeting deadlines, assessing risk and getting on well with people are only becoming more valuable. While it’s important to be able to use that smartphone, in our organisation the first thing we look for in an intern or a young professional is still how well she or he can write and speak, as well as quickly learn new skills – which involves reading and listening.

People skills matter a lot Being able to respect difference, negotiate for what you want politely and work together as a team in stressful situations are essential skills. Values matter as well, as does family, both of which are essential to building these skills and an important provider of a reality check, no matter how successful you think you’ve become.

School leavers should continue to be involved in some sport or cultural activity. Study is always going to be a priority, but there must be a balance. By continuing with your extra-curricular interests you ensure that you have some worthwhile distractions from your academic pursuits. It is a proven fact that enjoying some physical endeavour enhances the brain’s ability to absorb study, and those students who achieve a healthy balance in their lives usually do the best in their chosen professions.

Apply for a Russell McVeagh School Leavers’ or University Law Scholarship For more information on Russell McVeagh, our scholarship programme and to apply online, visit www.summerclerk.co.nz Applications close 5.00pm on Thursday 15 August 2013

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/RussellMcVeagh

SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES AFTER SCHOOL INCREASED INDEPENDENCE

by PETER O’CONNOR

Leaving school marks an important transition in a young person’s life to increased independence. For most it is an exciting and positive experience.

Whether you are heading to tertiary study, an apprenticeship or to the work force, one thing is certain; leaving school doesn’t mean you will stop learning.

And there is much to learn.

Navigating this part of your life brings a range of challenges. In today’s financial climate, the new sense of adulthood that comes with leaving school is complicated by the fact that you are most likely to still be living at home.

This brings new tensions with parents and siblings as you increasingly strike out on your own.

Parents will be trying hard to give you the space you need and yet will still be wanting to guide you and keep you focused on your future.

Keeping your relationship on an even keel with your parents at this time can be really hard.

You will find that looking beyond such as seeing them as more than walking Eftpos machines 6

leaving school | 4 August 2013

(or as totally unable to understand you) will definitely pay dividends in your relationship.

And parents need to recognise too that increasingly you need to take risks, give things a go on your own and that it is okay to fail on occasions. Surviving these times is often about being easy on each other.

If you are heading to tertiary study there are some difficult challenges ahead. For many there is the juggle of trying to source part-time work and then manage the demands of this against the demands of study.

Although in your final years of school you will have been increasingly engaged in independent study, tertiary study takes this to a different level. Competition is far more intense than when your parents left school.

University study in particular continues the regime of constant assessment with tight deadlines. Cs do get degrees, but they don’t get very good ones and so the pressure to succeed doesn’t ease up. If you’re heading straight into the work force, part or full-time you will be

starting at the bottom of the ladder and with high youth unemployment you will soon feel the pressure there too.

Keeping in touch with old schoolmates is important as is the making of new friends.

Remain connected with others – making sure that despite all the demands of your new life, that you can relax with friends is vitally important.

Keeping a balance between study, work, family and your friends is the key to making the most of this exciting and challenging part of your life.

And don’t forget that at all tertiary institutions there is counselling support and advice if required. Lecturers and tutors, by and large, are genuinely interested in helping you and are easily approached. If you’re struggling with the work, there are a whole range of services available to help you make the transition to this new part of your learning. The real secret is to seize the great opportunities that lie ahead.

Professor Peter O'Connor O Aisssociate the Director of the Critical Research Unit in Applied Theatre, University of Auckland.

WITH A DEGREE FROM WAIKATO UNIVERSITY

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What’s your journey?

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Study at New Zealand’s most beautiful campus, learn from internationally recognised academic staff, make life-long friends, and know that here, you’re more than just a student ID number.

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For information phone 0800 WAIKATO or visit waikato.ac.nz

0800 WAIKATO | waikato.ac.nz

THE FINANCIAL FACTS OF LIFE

by DIANA CLEMENT

Are you and your money soon parted? Do you want to be wealthy when you get older?

Then you need to know the financial facts of life.

Financial fact of life ONE: The big bad B-word Boring as it may sound, people who budget make their money go further than those who don’t.

If the big bad B-word sends you running for cover, think of it as a spending plan. Start by writing down everything you need to buy on a weekly and annual basis and juggle that money until your budget balances. Even better, use an online calculator such as the one at: Sorted.org.nz/calculators/money-planner Financial fact of life TWO: KiwiSaver kids You probably think KiwiSaver is for old farts. There are good reasons to join as young as you can.

One is to buy your first home – no matter how modest. After three years of saving two per cent of your income you could be entitled to a free first-home-subsidy of up to $3,000. After five years it’s up to $5,000.

Thanks to KiwiSaver 20-somethings are back in the housing market and buying their first homes. It’s not impossible.

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Financial fact of life THREE: Generation debt Don’t you just love the banks? As soon as you Pass Go and leave school they shower you with credit cards, overdrafts and personal loans.

Finally, you can buy everything you ever wanted. Why worry about tomorrow when you can spend today? Well, you should.

There’s a dark side to debt. You’ve got to pay it back eventually. What’s more it can chase you around the world, stop you buying property and delay you from starting a family.

Even employers can check out your Veda Advantage credit file. Too much debt makes you look irresponsible.Get the picture?

Financial fact of life FOUR: A winning mentality Have you ever noticed that some people have a magic touch with money and others lose everything that comes their way?

When you leave school or university some of your friends will fly through life and others will struggle every week to pay the rent or hold a job down. You don’t need to be one of the losers. It’s not luck that dictates how wealthy you are. It’s the six inches of grey stuff between your ears. Those people who succeed don’t just have luck. As former American President Benjamin Franklin once said: “I’m a strong believer in luck. The harder I work the more I have of it.” Get free help from careers advisers and budget counsellors. It could change the course of your life.

Financial fact of life FIVE: Little savings. Big future Five bucks here. Ten bucks there and you’ll soon be financially secure. Small savings add up to hundreds of bucks a year.

It’s really important to build yourself an emergency fund. That’s money to cover your expenses should you lose your job, your flatmate move out, or you have some unexpected emergency such as serious car repairs. If you can put $10 a week minimum into an account not to be touched you’ll be able to cope with life’s emergencies. The earlier you can get into the habit of regular saving the easier your financial life will be.

PROFILING YOUR CAREER PATH

KNOWING YOURSELF

by ROBYN YOUSEF Psychometric testing – often called profiling – can suggest totally new study/career options or confirm a school leaver is on the correct path. Well-used in the recruitment field, this tool is now increasingly popular with school leavers.

Psychometrics – which literally means mind measurement – was used extensively by the British and American armies after the two World Wars to establish future career paths for enlisted men.

Diploma in industrial and organisational psychology, the founding director of Shadow Consulting – specialists in psychometric assessment.

While most of his company’s work over the last 11 years has involved the recruitment sector, an increasing number of school leavers are now applying for the tests.

The testing comprises of a wide range of tools designed to measure an individual’s abilities, personality characteristics, values and motivations.

These standardised tests are used widely in recruitment, but also increasingly for young adults baffled by study/ employment options.

The questionnaires are usually computer-based, made up of multiple-choice questions covering aptitude (such as your potential to grasp new skills) and your personality. For example, a test which reveals the student as extremely empathetic underlines his/her decision to work with people in consultancy or finance – rather than science.

Dion Andrews has noticed a growing interest in young adults (supported by their parents) wanting to purchase more insight into their own strengths and vulnerabilities with this testing. He is a registered psychologist with an MSc (Hons) in psychology and a Post Graduate

To make good career choices, it is vital for school-leavers to identify their own strengths and what they can offer potential employers, says Sarah Moyne, a Career Consultant with Careers NZ. Sarah says some students “have no idea” about their future study/work options, “while some have clear ideas and others change their minds during their schooling which can be confusing. NCEA results and a lack of credits can also alter plans – but comprehensive support is available.”

She points out that Careers NZ offers many free tools on their website www.careers.govt.nz (see page 34 for further information and links) which help young people identify their marketable skills. Sarah also supports the use of psychometric assessment tools, in the self-awareness part of the career guidance process.

For this purpose, Shadow Consulting has developed the website www.memyselfi.co.nz, which includes several well-established tests which can be completed online.

“These are standardised and convenient with a bias-free predictor of behaviour and if an individual wants to buy this report, we can set it up, forward the results and then talk through just what these results mean,” says Dion.

While Dion believes these assessments have “career testing advantages”, he also encourages students to use their school’s career counsellors or other career advisory professionals.

“The challenge is to prepare students for careers that might not yet exist. Information really is at students’ fingertips but they must be able to make sense of it – to learn to connect the dots when it comes to their own career paths. There is no specific ‘right advice’ so they need to understand the process for making good choices. These skills will also help them later on as their career path changes,” she says.

Other websites with information on psychometrics: www.extendeddisc.co.nz www.peoplecentral.co.nz www.personalityprofileassessments.co.nz www.h2r.co.nz/psychometric-assessment leaving school | 4 August 2013

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A STIMULATING AND REWARDING CAREER IN LAW YOUR OPPORTUNITIES ARE ENDLESS

by CAMPBELL BURNES Joe Edwards is living proof that a career in law does not have to weigh you down with hefty statutes, grinding hours and soulless litigation.

Sure, there is still plenty of hard yakka in the legal profession, but the rewards can be enriching as well as professionally and personally satisfying.

The 32-year-old litigator is a senior associate at Russell McVeagh. He works with clients, including some of New Zealand’s most high profile companies, in a wide range of areas – commercial litigation, intellectual property and consumer law are his specialities.

But the Liverpudlian, who arrived in New Zealand with his family in 1995, did not always harbour a strong desire to become a lawyer as he was progressing through high school at West Auckland’s Liston College – a school he speaks of very highly. A career in law only came about when, as Head Boy, he was awarded a scholarship at Russell McVeagh.

“Prior to that, I’d always had it in my mind that I was going to go into the police... I didn’t see being a lawyer as being completely different from being in the police force. I thought it was a similar sort of system – helping society,” says Joe. His interest in English and history at school led to a conjoint LLB and BA, majoring history and

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sociology at the University of Auckland. That broad approach paid dividends, preventing burnout and allowing him to take on a gap year, where he worked for the UK Government in its prison system. More recently, and while at Russell McVeagh, he was seconded to the International Rugby Board (IRB) as in-house counsel during Rugby World Cup 2011 – first in Dublin at the IRB headquarters and then back in New Zealand during the tournament.

Not bad for a man who likes the oval ball code but still retains a real passion for football.

In fact, Joe is a striker for the Bay Olympic premier team and classes himself lucky that he has been able to pursue the game to a good level while his legal career takes off.

His advice to school leavers thinking about law as a career is clear: “It can be very easy to get swept up in the idea of becoming a lawyer and thinking ‘This is my law degree and I have to become a corporate lawyer.’ That’s not necessarily the case. It’s better to be as balanced and broad as you can at university, and pursue areas of interest – both academically and recreationally.

Students can then decide later in their degree whether being a lawyer in a big firm (and ‘the law’) is for them. Either way, a law degree will be invaluable for future employment.”

Joe’s interest in food and beverage – as part of an overall focus in consumer law – primarily in the area of advertising, was not fuelled by hours of theory.

“I did six years as a grocery boy at Foodtown (now Countdown). I found that, of all my experiences, probably the most invaluable in terms of seeing how things work and how things are presented with packaging, was stacking the shelves,” he says.

In the area of intellectual property, he says it is very specialised and “important to all businesses” while social media is a growing area of law which is now assuming huge relevance.

“I see social media as a real driver at the moment. There are huge legal risks that I don’t think people are fully appreciating.”

Joe loves his job at Russell McVeagh. All of his team are expected to work hard but the rewards are there and not just in terms of remuneration, but in a vibrant social culture and the ability to travel. The week after our interview, Joe was guest speaker at an international conference in Sydney.

He finds his work challenging and stimulating, and most teenagers or 20-somethings entering the workforce would jump at a vocation offering such positives.

4 Joe Edwards has found a career in law to be very satisfying.

All about ServiceIQ ServiceIQ is the industry training organisation (ITO) for the aviation; museum; tourism; travel; cafés, bars and restaurants; accommodation; food services; quick service restaurants; clubs; retail and wholesale industries.

There are almost 70,000 businesses in the sectors ServiceIQ covers, many small to mediumsized businesses (SMEs) as well as large national organisations.

The sectors ServiceIQ represents contributed approximately $27.4 billion to the New Zealand economy in 2011. This is a sizeable contribution of approximately 14 per cent towards national GDP.

Nearly 20 per cent of the New Zealand workforce is employed fulltime in the large and growing service sector.

In addition, the service sector supports one of New Zealand’s largest export industries – tourism – which earned approximately $9.7 billion in the year to March 2011.

ServiceIQ – ’shorthand’ for service industry qualifications – aims to have a world class New Zealand service industry through qualified people.

By helping to produce a workforce with nationally recognised qualifications who contribute to greater business productivity, and profitability, the ITO will help increase our sector’s contribution to the national economy.

ServiceIQ arranges on the job training for the majority of the service industry, covering skills relevant to all businesses and their employees.

Practical training programmes developed for and in consultation with industry, and also for secondary school students, across a wide variety of job roles and careers, are available now.

ServiceIQ is nationwide, with offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

For more information on ServiceIQ’s training programmes, please contact us on: P: 0800 863 693 | E: intel@ServiceIQ.org.nz | W: ServiceIQ.org.nz

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TEACHING: snA TRUE VOCATIONfv VARIED SATISFYING WORK

by ROBYN YOUSEF

As soon as Brooke Johnston stood in front of her first class, she knew she’d made the right career move and she enjoys teaching more every year. At 26, Brooke is in her fifth year of teaching at Newlands School in Wellington; she teaches children in Years 3 and 4 and her class has 24 students.

Brooke says there was no way she was ever going to be anything but a teacher.

Growing up in Oamaru, she used to “call the roll” to her line-up of toys in front of a miniature blackboard.

University of Otago She went to Waitaki Girls’ High School and then on to the University of Otago for a three-year degree, emerging with a Bachelor of Education (Primary). Brooke enjoyed the course – particularly the theory-based study of child psychology. She was in the last group of students doing this university-based teaching degree. In 2007 the University of Otago College of Education (UOCE) was created with the merger of the University of Otago and the Dunedin College of Education.

Job search Finding a job was not easy for the young graduate.

“I applied for 30-plus jobs in Christchurch without 12

one interview and then one job in Wellington where I am today. I was really lucky to get this job as my tutor teacher is now the principal, so I had the opportunity to be mentored by someone who is incredibly skilled at her job.”

Busy and exciting Her favourite part of her job is that it is always so busy and exciting.

“Every day is different. You get out what you put in and when the kids know that you really do like them, they just give you so much back. I like seeing them progress and being excited about what they are learning. I do also just love that because I am their teacher they just assume that I know everything and can fix anything.”

Sporting benefits The kids at Newlands School also benefit from her sporting abilities. While at Waitaki Girls’ High, she was the Sports Prefect as well as the Junior and Senior Sports Dux. A former New Zealand representative in trampolining, she was part of the Kiwi contingent competing in the World Age Group competition in Australia in 1998 and for the same event in Germany in 2003.

4 Class involvement – Brooke Johnston with her class at Newlands School in Wellington.

PHOTO CREDIT: L.C. Scott Photographers

“This year I am in charge of after-school sports (indoor soccer, miniball etc), I am the Jump Jam leader and gymnastics lead teacher. I am also the choir teacher with a choir of 85 and responsible for the technology curriculum area.”

Recommendations She thinks teaching is a wonderful career and recommends it to school leavers who love children and are organised, motivated individuals.

But, it wasn’t all sweetness and light for Brooke when she was studying.

“When I was going to different schools to observe, I really didn’t enjoy it. I thought I might have made a terrible mistake. But from the minute I got my own classroom I have just absolutely loved it and I have seriously never thought that maybe I don’t want to do this anymore.”

Five years on, she is still very passionate about her job and feels it is getting easier as she becomes more experienced. “As a teacher, you are never done but get a lot of satisfaction from the job.”

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IT INDUSTRY INCENTIVES

RAFT OF EXCITING WORK

by CAMPBELL BURNES Young, creative, highly motivated.

Meet the new breed of IT worker. Meet Steven McTainsh.

Fun work The 22-year-old has his own website, a high-powered yet fun job and has certainly put his life-long love of computers to good use.

Out of Tauranga’s Otumoetai College and by way of the University of Waikato, Steven now works in Wellington for Alphero, a high-flying digital transformation and mobile-development company.

His LinkedIn profile states: “As a junior developer, I am given the opportunity to apply my skills in web development, as well as newly acquired skills in mobile development, to a raft of exciting projects.”

Computer science At school he was into maths, of course, but also accounting.

“I always knew I had a passion for computers and I did computer science at high school.

Accounting was something I was good at, not necessarily something I wanted to do,” he says.

Steven did not have far to go for his tertiary education, enrolling in the University of Waikato’s Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Science degree. After four years, he graduated with first-class honours at the start of 2013.

Worthwhile qualification “I found it was quite intense to start off with, especially coming from high school. There was a lot to learn about university in general, but it was definitely a worthwhile qualification to have entering the workforce. I got an internship down here at the end of my third year and Alphero has employed me full-time.”

Steven urges school leavers to do what they love if they head to university.

“There’s no point in going through university in all those years just to end up with a qualification in an area you don’t enjoy.

If you don’t know what you want to do straight away, then it’s not the end of the world.”

Steven is well aware of the changing nature of how society processes information and works. Information technology is at the forefront of much of what businesses are about now.

Steven considers himself fortunate to be in a stimulating work environment advising big clients such as Westpac and Vodafone on their web and mobile projects. He knows the job market is a tight one and even the IT industry is not immune to the squeeze.

“It’s become a lot more central to everything we do. Even when I was in high school, computer science was quite a dominant subject and promoted quite heavily, but now it’s on the up and up. There are a lot more incentives to get into the IT industry now and awesome things for the future.”

“Based on what I’ve heard from other people, IT is one of those industries where there are a lot of jobs on offer, but lately it seems like it’s been a bit tight, so I consider myself lucky having landed not only a job but one that I really enjoy,” says Steven.

The next Rod Drury or Craig Nevill-Manning?

We’ll keep you posted.

Development While blogging and doing his own website have been fun sideshows, he has also dabbled in some video editing – his degree helped with that and gave him a broader outlook on his career.

At Alphero he is in the thick of web, iPhone and iPad development.

“The stuff you learn on your degree teaches you to be quite adaptable to different situations. It’s made it easier to pick up,” he says.

He’s working on a raft of varied and exciting projects… IT worker, Steven McTainsh.

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TIME NOW TO APPLY FOR 2014 SCHOLARSHIPS

A LARGE RANGE OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE

by DAVID McDONALD In an age of study that is defined by debt, receiving a scholarship to contribute towards your fees and expenses can be extremely beneficial.

We spoke to Jula Goebel from BreakOut to get the best advice for students trying to gain a scholarship.

BreakOut is an online search tool operated by the Funding Information Service which provides information about almost 4000 scholarships, grants and awards.

“The first thing you need to know is what is on offer. Check the scholarship webpages of the universities you plan to go to or search the BreakOut database to find your perfect matches.”

“There are so many different scholarships available and you don’t need to be an A+ student,” Jula says.

Scholarships can be attained by students on the basis of ethnicity, leadership, financial hardship, area of study, service to community, academic distinction and many other reasons.

There are a few things to be aware of when applying for a scholarship.

The process of applying for scholarships generally requires students to complete an application form and put together various documents.

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SOME application tips: “It depends on the scholarship but you usually need a good CV, references, a copy of your birth certificate and a record of your learning.

You may also be asked to attend an interview with the scholarship panel,” Jula says.

It is strongly encouraged that students apply as early as possible to give themselves the best possible chance.

“Scholarships close all year round and now is a good time to start applying for scholarships in 2014. You really need to start applying a few months before you start your study, as it takes time to find the right scholarships, apply for them, be selected and then be paid.”

You can access BreakOut for free in most public libraries. Visit www.breakout.org.nz and click on the map; it will tell you where in New Zealand you can use it. Many schools provide access also, so check with your librarian or careers advisor. You can also get an individual subscription and pay for access.

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Make sure you fit all the eligibility criteria.

Make a note of the closing date and send in the application on or before

the due date (the earlier the better).

Create a folder with a collection of documents that are usually required for applications.

Write an information sheet about yourself and your achievements that

you can include in your applications.

Create a CV that is tailored to each scholarship that you are applying for.

Make sure that you have attached all the required documents and get someone to check your application. These documents may include references, proof of

address, passports and academic results. You may need to have photocopies certified by a Justice of the Peace, so be prepared – this can take time.

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Actively seek and apply for scholarships. It is free financial assistance and there are scholarships for everyone. The more you apply for the greater your chance.

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Talk to your school’s career guidance officers; they will assist you with

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YOUNG ENGINEER SET TO SOAR

THE success OF MECHATRONICS MAJOR

by ROBYN YOUSEF At 22, Banu Pashutanizadeh is already well on her way to her ultimate aim of working as an engineer for Boeing in the United States.

She’s always been fascinated by planes and after completing a Bachelor of Engineering Degree (Honours) with a major in mechatronics at Massey University in Albany, she is now a Junior Controls Engineer for the Albany-based company BCS Group. The company provides baggage-handling systems and solutions for airports within New Zealand and several major overseas countries.

“My main responsibility is using software to draw out the entire conveyor system based on calculations and engineering design material provided to me by the senior engineers. These electrical layouts and drawings then become the basis for the installation of the system on site and important in the commissioning process.

“I also assist the project managers in developing Bill of Materials and help the senior engineers with the design and engineering calculations of the conveyor systems, motors, drives and all other components within the entire system.”

Mechatronics course a good mix Born in Mumbai, India, she did her primary and secondary schooling at St Mary’s – a Catholic school about four hours away from the bustling city. The school was founded by the British and her schooling was based on the Cambridge syllabus.

Banu applied for tertiary study in New Zealand and was accepted by two universities, choosing Massey University. “The mechatronics course seemed like exactly what I wanted – a good mix of electrical, mechanical and computer engineering.”

4 Banu Pashutanizadeh has launched an exciting engineering career.

16

leaving school | 4 August 2013

As a child she wanted to be a pilot, but later decided she needed a degree to fall back on. “So the obvious thing for me to do was engineering – maths and science were the only things I was interested in.”

Banu’s Persian parents, who are both professionals (her father worked as an airplane engineer and her mother is an architect) totally supported her decision.

“I remember Dad going through the Massey University’s School of Engineering and Advanced Technology course brochure with me – it was him that convinced me to major in mechatronics.”

Gender comparison outdated nowadays She did turn about 50 male heads at her first mechatronics lecture – yes, she was the only female in her year doing this major.

But, while she agrees the male to female ratio is still quite low in engineering, she finds the gender comparison now outdated with so many leading women engineers throughout the world.

She loved her time at Massey University in Albany. “I enjoyed Massey because it’s not intimidating – the size of the classes were big enough that you had a lot of mates but small enough that you knew every person’s name.

And you could walk into a lecturer’s office at any time and have a chat.”

Patience advised Banu congratulates school leavers who have opted for a career in engineering.

“Engineering is a skill that is acquired with years of experience. So be patient, but if you learn to love the subject and what engineering has done to enhance and develop mankind, nothing will hold you back.”

And meanwhile, this young engineer seems well on her way to the pinnacle of her career – planning to study for a masters degree in aeronautical engineering and then wants to work for Boeing in the US city, Seattle.

MILITARY BECKONS FOR MEDICAL STUDENT

MEDICAL OFFICER CADET SCHEME

by DAVID McDONALD

Maihi Brown, a 28-year-old medical student, has a bright future. In his fourth year of study at the University of Auckland, he looks forward to a job with the New Zealand Army when he graduates.

He is part of their Medical Officer Cadet Scheme, with the army covering his medical school fees and providing a salary during his studies. In turn, Maihi must serve as an army doctor for at least four years following graduation where he will also have many opportunities to do further medical training and development.

“I still get to work in the field that I am passionate about and at the same time I have the opportunity to serve the country that I love and have fun, character-building experiences that I would not get anywhere else.”

Maihi is the eldest of six children and moved extensively around the North Island as he was growing up. He spent half of his high-school years at Kamo High School in Whangarei before moving to Hamilton for his last two years at school.

For entrance into the medical programme at the University of Auckland, Maihi undertook a bridging course to hone his chemistry and biology skills. This one-year Certificate in Health Sciences proved to be valuable with Maihi emerging as the best of the course’s 60 students to win a prize offered by the Newmarket Rotary Charitable Foundation. He then completed the first year of a Biomedical Science Degree before applying to join the medical programme at the end of that year of study.

MAPAS Programme Maihi chose to apply for medicine in conjunction with the University of Auckland’s MAPAS Programme (Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme). This scheme focuses on increasing the numbers of Māori and Pacific health graduates by providing a supportive environment and dedicated study support for students – who are still required to meet the same academic standards as any other student.

After attaining good grades, Maihi then went on for a formal interview before being accepted into the medical programme. The young student says the medicine workload is heavy but it is very do-able. He urges any students interested in medicine to go for it. “I love that every day you go to class you learn about something fascinating.”

He says it is a long road in, competitive and it can get intense at times, “but, it is so worthwhile.

If you take it one year at a time, and think of it as a positive pathway then time will fly and you will love it.”

Maihi recommends talking to your career guidance team at school if you are thinking about a career in medicine.

4 From left to right: Sam Burridge, Anna Elvery, Chloe Humphrey, Maihi Brown and Roy Chung – all fourth-year medical students at the University of Auckland.

Cultural passion He is of Ngapuhi and Ngati Hine descent on his father’s side and New Zealand European descent on his mother’s side. “I have a strong passion for my culture and Māori people. Māori have some of the poorest health outcomes in New Zealand and I would love to play a part in improving that. There is a huge need for more doctors and health professionals in this area.”

Study, stimulation and salary Maihi believes he has made the ideal career choice whereby he can work in an interesting field playing a role in helping people improve their health. And, at the same time, he has had an opportunity for continuous learning and stimulation, while being paid. leaving school | 4 August 2013

17

LIFE INSIDE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT WHAT IT'S LIKE

by DAVID McDONALD Thinking about leaving home next year?

Want to study in a different part of the country? We take a closer look at what student accommodation is like and everything you need to be aware of if you are considering the big leap in 2014.

For a Year 13 student the prospect of being free and living it up with like-minded young people in another part of the country is somewhat exciting.

We spoke to Léa Turner from Whangarei who made the big move to Wellington to study at Victoria University at the beginning of 2013.

Léa is staying at Te Puni Village in Kelburn which hosts around 400 students. She loves

Wellington city and really enjoys the student lifestyle.

“Wellington is a great city to be in. There is always something going on for students; the nightlife is always pumping and there are so many awesome cafés to try out.”

“The Hall of Residence is such a good environment. Everyone is really nice and it has a great vibe. It gives you the opportunity to meet so many different people. Living with other students is always fun and you make some great friends,” Léa says.

Léa pays around $310 a week which covers power, water, three meals a day and internet.

Prices for fully-catered student accommodation (includes three meals daily) can cost around $220 to $360 a week. A student allowance or loan from StudyLink may assist with costs.

Andrea Schoorl, Accommodation Advisor at the University of Canterbury has some important points for students to consider when considering and applying for Halls of Residence.

“The transition from school to university is all about developing independence. This means you need to take responsibility for keeping your room tidy and staying on top of your laundry and cleaning.”

Applications for student accommodation are very important and there are a

SIT2LRN Study Anywhere

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Diploma in Digital Film (Level 5) Intakes starting 1 July, 29 July Diploma in Digital Photography (Level 5) Intakes starting 1 July, 29 July Certificate in Interior Décor (Level 4) Intakes starting 5 August National Certificate in Adult Education and Training (Level 5 and 6) Intakes starting 5 August Certificate in Introduction to Teacher Aiding (Level 3) Intakes starting 19 August, 16 September Certificate in Environmental Management (Level 4) Intakes starting 5 August Certificate in Health Sciences (Pre Entry) (Level 3 and 4) Intakes starting 5 August, 30 September Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice (Level 6) Intakes starting 5 August

Certificate in Sports Training and Development (Level 3) Intakes starting 19 August, 16 September Certificate in General Horticulture (Level 3) Intakes starting 5 August, 30 September Certificate in Landscape Design (Level 3) Intakes starting 5 August, 30 September Certificate in Organic Horticulture (Level 3) Intakes starting 5 August, 30 September Certificate in Renewable Technology (Level 4) Intakes starting 5 August Diploma in Hotel and Tourism Management (Level 5) Year 1 and 2 Intakes starting 5 August

0800 4 0 FEES

deadlines for applications for the

big universities

University of Otago

U September 30 University of Wellington U Victoria October 1 University of Canterbury U October 1 University of Auckland U No closing date but they advise 4 The camaraderie of student life in a hall of residence at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. number of factors you need to be aware of when applying.

There are typically two elements to the application process for university accommodation. Firstly, there is an online application form which you will find on the university’s website. In addition, there is a ‘Common Confidential Reference Form’ which is a reference completed by your school.

“The halls are typically looking for well-rounded students who are going to study hard but who also have other skills and interests to offer to the residence. Therefore it is important that you list all your recent extra-curricular activities in your application form and promote yourself well,” says Andrea.

What you say in your application form is very important to the halls when making their selection. Equally important is what your referee says about you in your ‘Common Confidential Reference Form’.

From a student’s perspective, Léa believes there are many factors for prospective students to consider, particularly on a financial and studentship level.

“You have to be aware of all the different expenses. I would advise you save as much money over summer as you can so that you have funds in case of an emergency or surprise expenses and don’t rely too much on StudyLink,” she said.

applying before September 15 University of Waikato October 1 AUT University No closing date but they advise students to apply early Massey University October 1 Lincoln University October 1

U

U

U

U

“Remember to stay on top of your study and not get too distracted.”

Léa believes staying in a student hall is a great experience and would recommend it to any student. It is strongly advised that students apply early for student accommodation. Check university websites for more information and pricing details.

Fees and the Zero Fees Scheme The Zero Fees Scheme means we cover your tuition fee, so all you have to pay for are the direct material costs for your course.

Who does it apply to?

The Zero Fees Scheme applies to all New Zealand citizens , New Zealand permanent residents and Australian citizens residing in New Zealand. Not just Southlanders!

About Direct Material Costs There will still be some student material costs that you will have to pay for at the time of enrolment, or you will need to arrange a student loan to cover these costs.

Contact us today! www.sit.ac.nz

What does it mean for you?

This is your opportunity to get a quality education WITHOUT a massive student loan. Who wants to be paying off debt for the next 10-20 years? Many of our savvy graduates start their careers debt-free.

This is no exaggeration - over a three-year degree course, you can save between $7,000 - $14,000.

COMBINING SCIENCE AND LAW

ENVIRONMENTAL LEGAL ISSUES

by ROBYN YOUSEF A Hands-On Science Camp was the catalyst which made 24-year-old Nicola de Wit change her career path. She had wanted to study medicine but this year 13 event led her to study for both a science and law degree at the University of Otago.

She now lives in Auckland and works as a Legal Advisor for the Environmental Defence Society.

“My job involves managing our litigation programme, writing submissions on Bills, RMA policy statements, plans, resource consents and legal research for our publications.”

Nicola is really enjoying her job, which she has been in for one year.

“I am involved in a huge variety of topical environmental law issues.

They are also really important issues for our country’s future.”

The job incorporates her law degree directly and her science degree indirectly. Nicola’s science degree has proven very useful as she needs to be able to engage with technical issues (such as water quality) and also with expert witnesses.

Science Camp (organised by the University of Otago) at the beginning of Year 13 very useful.

Educated at Upper Hutt College, her favourite subjects at school were the sciences – especially chemistry – and PE. Nicola found the Hands-On

“It was during the second half of my university study that I started to pick up more and more environmentally focused papers (in both my law and my science degrees). At the same time I became more involved in environmental issues extra-curricularly,” she said.

4 Blending her knowledge from

both a science and law degree, Nicola de Wit, enjoys working as a Legal Advisor for the Environmental Defence Society.

20

leaving school | 4 August 2013

“Prior to that I intended to study medicine.

It made me aware that medicine was not the career path for me and I needed to reconsider my options. I wanted to study science but I wasn’t sure where that would take me so I decided to hedge my bets and try something completely different as well. I decided on law because I had enjoyed debating at school. I never envisioned myself as a lawyer.”

She was awarded the Frontiers of Science Scholarship from the University of Otago (it is available nationwide and worth up to $3000 per year for up to four years) and this played a significant role in her tertiary studies and career selection. “It did encourage me to undertake studies in the sciences and keep at it – but that was always on the cards. I seriously considered postgraduate science study – but I struggled to picture a career for myself down that path and by that time I had developed an interest in environmental law. It is an area that allows me to exercise my legal skills and utilise my understanding of scientific principles – it is also a very interesting area and allows me to contribute to the public good.”

Interestingly, Nicola did not have a clear career track in mind until in her final years of university.

Nicola advises school leavers to study what they enjoy – while keeping an eye on the future.

“You are better at things you enjoy and it is very important to enjoy your job – but it is a tough job market – so make sure your toil (and that very large student loan bill) will be worth it.”

The opportunity to exercise your freedom and explore the world is a common consideration for Year 13 students before embarking on a career or tertiary education.

A chance to take a break and unwind while travelling the world or earning money.

But what should students be aware of before they make the commitment?

Is it a good idea?

We spoke to fourth-year medical student, Chloe Humphrey, who leaped at the possibility of taking a gap year in 2007.

Chloe completed her school studies at Tauranga Girls’ College in 2006 and she was desperate to take off and see the world.

“For me, a gap year was a chance to explore different cultures, languages, foods and really broaden my knowledge of the world.

Having done a reasonable amount of travel with my family as a child, I was desperate to get out there and explore it myself.”

Chloe flew to Eastbourne in England in 2007 and worked in a boarding school as a “Gappie” where she worked alongside five other gap students from Australia and New Zealand.

They had various tasks which included helping in classrooms, with sports teams and in the boarding house. During the school holidays she travelled all around Europe and even made it as far as Morocco in North Africa.

While the thrill of a gap year excites many Year 13 leavers, Debbie Kersten, the Careers Advisor at St Peter’s College in Auckland, believes there are many factors which students need to consider when making their decision.

“Taking a gap year after completing Year 13 can be a difficult decision. It is a personal choice which can work for some students and not for others. Often the motivation to study can go out the window once you get a couple of pay packets. It can be difficult to give up that income and lifestyle to return to being a student.

“On the other hand you may be able to find a job and save towards returning to study and you may still be unsure where and what you wish to study so a year off gives you time to experience working life and more time to think carefully before committing to three to four years of study and a student loan.”

Chloe had her eyes set on a career in medicine but wanted to be sure before rushing in.

“Knowing that I was heading into a fairly long degree meant that I was keen to experience the excitement of travel before I was tied down to lectures, study and eventually full-time work. Taking a year off really solidified in my mind what I wanted to study at university. I realised I was passionate about medicine as a career,” Chloe says.

Students need to ensure they have financial security and accommodation while travelling.

Chloe’s situation was ideal.

“Getting a job at a boarding school gave me security in the form of a base to live and work from. Accommodation and food were included, there were no bills and the school holidays were regular which made room for plenty of travel.”

Talk to your school’s career advisor for guidance and advice, they will point you in the right direction. There are also a range of organisations which facilitate gap year programmes and volunteer placements locally and abroad.

Lattitude Global Volunteering organise international volunteering and gap year placements for 17 to 25 years olds.

Visit their website: www.lattitude.org.nz

4 For Chloe Humphrey (pictured), a fourth year medical student, a gap year in the United Kingdom was a positive step.

by DAVID McDONALD

travel or STUDY CONUNDRUM

GAP YEARS… SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?

leaving school | 4 August 2013

21

CUTTING EDGE DESIGN

FASHION DESIGN DIVAS

by ROBYN YOUSEF Look out Paris and Milan. This country has some very exciting young fashion designers making their mark.

One successful young designer, Maxine Wooldridge, probably wouldn’t have even been involved in fashion if it hadn’t been for a last minute decision. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design (WCAD) with a major in fashion design – taking fashion to fill a gap in her timetable.

“It was a quick deciding moment that definitely paid off. I knew nothing about fashion, garment construction and sewing before studying at WCAD in Auckland,” explains the 28-year-old.

Label launched Maxine graduated from WCAD in 2007, launching her label, DMONIC INTENT, with her three siblings in 2008. Their store on Auckland’s Karangahape Road is called

NAKED EMPIRE – The Style Syndicate and specialises in jewellery along with their alternative high-fashion streetwear.

Award winning DMONIC INTENT has won a cluster of prestigious fashion awards including the Villa Maria Estate Cult Couture Flight of Fantasy Category Winner in 2009 and the Miromoda Avant Garde Category last year and the year before as well.

Also in 2011 the label won the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards’ Stashh Garment Award.

As a six-year-old, Maxine wanted to be an architect because her dad built houses and she loved to draw them.

“I was always drawing or building things.

LEGO was amazing to me while growing up.

I studied graphic design throughout college and computer graphic design after college.

I enrolled at WCAD to further my studies in computer graphic design when I discovered fashion and during my time there decided with my siblings to start the label.”

Determination She is finding her business very rewarding and exciting and advises budding designers to persevere. “Do what’s right for you.

We’ve steadily grown our following through determination, honesty and being real.

Never back down and believe in yourself for you alone create your own fate.”

Sali Hafeedh (26) also dreams of starting her own fashion design business. Born in Dubai, she arrived here when she was eight years old. After studies at Pakuranga College in Auckland and completing a fashion design degree, she capped this off with two years at NZ Fashion Tech.

4 Young fashion designers, Maxine Wooldridge (left) and Sali Hafeedh (right).

Maxine works on her label, DMONIC INTENT, while Sali's fashion illustrations from her Instagram SSALI_J are featured above.

Design Assistant Following her three-year AUT design course, Sali went on to work with well-known Kiwi designer, Liz Mitchell, as her Design Assistant.

“I decided then to upskill, learning more about the technical side of the fashion business at New Zealand Fashion Tech in Auckland. I did a year studying garment technology and pattern design, before deciding to finish the one-year Diploma of Fashion Technology.”

Combining the courses gave her a strong fashion design background.

“Both have different strengths and I can use the best of both worlds in my work.”

Specification Technician She is now working with Woodhouse Apparel in Albany, a production company producing mostly middle-of-the-road commercial fashion, but also some very high-end labels. Sali is a Specification Technician – responsible for the computer drawings of designs between the clients and the factories producing the clothes.

“I am learning so much. It merges the creative and business side of design so I’m learning about costs and deadlines.”

Fashion illustrations She has recently launched an Instagram (SSALI_J) featuring her fashion illustrations – another area of fashion she is keen to pursue.

Sali appreciates that succeeding in design is hard, but loves the challenge and work involved. With her determination, we’re very likely to see some striking designs out there with her distinctive signature.

Always dreamed of a career in the Fashion Industry?

Create your own collection and gain valuable industry experience while studying.

IMPORTANT WEBSITES The following list of websites will hopefully assist you as you plan your future career and are best viewed by going to‌

www.oliverlee.co.nz/leavingschool

Universities

AUT University www.aut.ac.nz Lincoln University www.lincoln.ac.nz Massey University www.massey.ac.nz University of Auckland www.auckland.ac.nz University of Waikato www.waikato.ac.nz University of Canterbury www.canterbury.ac.nz University of Otago www.otago.ac.nz Victoria University of Wellington www.victoria.ac.nz

Education

Minister for Education www.minedu.govt.nz New Zealand Careers College www.nzcc.ac.nz New Zealand College of Early Childhood Education www.teacher.co.nz

Teaching

Teach First NZ www.teachfirstnz.org Teach NZ www.teachnz.govt.nz Post Primary Teachers Association www.ppta.org.nz

Polytechnics

Aoraki Polytechnic www.aoraki.ac.nz Bay of Plenty Polytechnic www.boppoly.ac.nz Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology www.cpit.ac.nz Eastern Institute of Technology www.eit.ac.nz Manukau Institute of Technology www.manukau.ac.nz Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology www.nmit.ac.nz North Tec www.northtec.ac.nz Open Polytechnic www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz Otago Polytechnic www.otagopolytechnic.ac.nz Southern Institute of Technology www.sit.ac.nz Tai Poutini Polytechnic www.tpp.ac.nz UNITEC www.unitec.ac.nz Universal College of Learning (UCOL) www.ucol.ac.nz Waiariki Institute of Technology www.waiariki.ac.nz Waikato Institute of Technology www.wintec.ac.nz Wellington Institute of Technology www.weltec.ac.nz Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki www.witt.ac.nz Whanganui School of Design www.wsd.ac.nz Whitireia Community Polytechnic www.whitireia.ac.nz 24

leaving school | 4 August 2013

Law

Russell McVeagh www.russellmcveagh.com

Law Society www.lawsociety.org.nz

Accountancy

CPA New Zealand www.cpaaustralia.com.au New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants www.nzica.com PWC www.pwc.co.nz

Agriculture/ Veterinary

Beef + Lamb New Zealand http://beeflambnz.com Dairy NZ www.dairynz.co.nz Fonterra Co-Op Group www.fonterra.com Federated Farmers of New Zealand www.fedfarm.org.nz Pathway in Agriculture http://pica.org.nz Primary ITO www.primaryito.ac.nz

Get Ahead www.getahead.co.nz

New Zealand Veterinary Association

www.nzva.org.nz AgITO www.agito.ac.nz

NZ Young Farmers

www.youngfarmers.co.nz

Arts

New Zealand School of Dance www.creative.auckland.ac.nz NICAI www.creative.auckland.ac.nz New Zealand School of Music www.nzsm.ac.nz

Arts - Graphic Design Whanganui School of Design www.wsd.ac.nz Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design www.whitecliffe.ac.nz

Career Guidance

Avance Tutors www.avancetutors.com Careers New Zealand www.careers.govt.nz Careers Expo www.careersexpo.org.nz School Connect www.schoolconnect.co.nz

Defence/Justice/Fire Army www.army.mil.nz Dept. of Corrections www.corrections.govt.nz Royal New Zealand Airforce www.airforce.mil.nz New Zealand Fire Service www.fire.org.nz New Zealand Police Recruitment www.newcops.co.nz Royal New Zealand Navy www.navy.mil.nz

Employment

Seek.co.nz www.seek.co.nz Student Job Search www.sjs.co.nz TradeMe www.trademe.co.nz

Engineering IPENZ www.ipenz.org.nz NZ Diploma in Engineering www.engineer.org.nz

Aviation

Airways New Zealand www.airways.co.nz Air New Zealand Aviation Institute www.aviationinstitute.co.nz Aviation & Travel Training Group www.attg.co.nz CTC Aviation Training www.ctcaviation.com International Aviation Academy of New Zealand www.flighttraining.co.nz Ardmore Flying School www.ardmore co.nz Nelson Aviation College www.nelson-aviation.co.nz

Fashion - Design New Zealand Academy of Fashion www.fashiondesign.co.nz New Zealand Fashion Tech www.nzfashiontech.ac.nz Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design www.whitecliffe.ac.nz

Finance

Commission for Financial Literacy & Retirement Income www.cflri.org.nz KiwiSaver www.ird.govt.nz/kiwisaver The Kiwi guide to money www.sorted.co.nz

Gap Year

Lattitude www.lattitude.org.nz Outward Bound www.outwardbound.co.nz Projects Abroad www.projects-abroad.org

Hair and Beauty

College of Camille www.collegeofcamille.com Elite International School of Beauty & Spa Therapies www.elitebeautyschool.co.nz HITO www.hito.org.nz Premier Hairdressing Academy www.hairdressing.org.nz Rodney Wayne New Zealand Ltd www.rodneywayne.co.nz Servilles Academy www.servilles.com/academy

Health/Medicine

Auckland Medical School www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz College of Physiotherapy http://physiotherapy.org.nz Kia Ora Hauora www.kiaorahauora.co.nz Ministry of Health www.health.govt.nz NZ College of Physiotherapy www.physiotherapy.org.nz Otago Faculty of Dentistry http://dentistry.otago.ac.nz Otago Medical School http://micn.otago.ac.nz

Horticulture

Horticulture New Zealand www.hortnz.co.nz New Zealand School of Forestry www.forestry. ac.nz

Hospitality Training Professional Bar & Restaurant School www.pbrs.co.nz Restaurant Association of New Zealand www.restaurantnz.co.nz Service IQ www.serviceiq.org.nz

Industry Training Organisations

Apprenticeship Training Trust www.att.org.nz Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation www.bcito.org.nz Competenz www.competenz.org.nz ETCO (Electrical Apprentices) www.etco.co.nz ESITO www.esito.org.nz InfraTrain New Zealand www.infratrain.co.nz Industry Training Federation www.itf.org.nz Master Link www.masterlink.co.nz Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO) www.mito.org.nz New Zealand Industry Training Organisation www.nzito.co.nz Service IQ www.serviceiq.org.nz The Skills Organisation www.skills.org.nz

IT Training

Computer Power Plus www.computerpower.ac.nz

Maori Education

Te Wananga O Aotearoa www.twoa.ac.nz Te Wananga O Raukawa www.wananga.com

Profiling

Shadow Consulting www.shadowconsulting.co.nz

Retail

Foodstuffs New Zealand www.foodstuffs.co.nz Farmers www.farmers.co.nz The Warehouse www.thewarehouse.co.nz Briscoes www.briscoes.co.nz

Science/Innovation Callaghan Innovation www.callaghaninnovation.govt.nz Futureintech www.futureintech.org.nz Plant & Food Research www.plantandfood.co.nz Science New Zealand Inc. www.sciencenewzealand.org The New Zealand Institute of Food Science www.nzifst.org.nz

Student Loans

StudyLink www.studylink.govt.nz

Scholarships

BreakOut www.breakout.org.nz

Welfare

Ministry of Social Development www.msd.govt.nz leaving school | 4 August 2013

25

VETERINARY WORK OFFERS MANY CHALLENGES NOT YOUR NORMAL NINE TO FIVE

by CHELSEA BLAIR Alex Smith never thought he would find himself working on farms, nor did he even consider a career in agriculture.

Originally from Wales, the 29-year-old veterinarian has been in New Zealand for over two years and now calls Methven home; he works for Paddock Vets.

Kiwi lifestyle “I came out for calving season, but got a bit of a taste for the New Zealand lifestyle and enjoyed the challenges of the veterinary work that are on offer here,” he explained.

“Agriculture in New Zealand is a really exciting place, there is a really positive feel about it, and it’s great to see that young people are fired up by it and want to get involved,” said Alex.

“There are so many opportunities in this industry and plenty of avenues to work your way up.”

Mainly dairy Alex works mainly as a Dairy-Vet and explained that the practice he works for is mixed, but given the workload in mid-Canterbury the caseload is about 90 per cent dairy, “the rest

are small animals and maybe you’ll see a few horses,” he said.

Seasonal variety The type and amount of work for vets like Alex varies with the farming seasons. It’s safe to say, no two days are the same. Usually calving in winter is the busiest season and during that time he will be out and about on the farm helping cows calve and looking after sick cows; gradually more routine work will begin, such as post-calving checks and mating.

Study To get to where he is today, Alex studied a five-year veterinary programme at university.

The first three years were pre-clinical which offered a basic grounding in subjects such as physiology, biochemistry and anatomy; then, two years of clinical training with a variety of work placements on different farms.

As for future opportunities after becoming a vet, there is the possibility of buying into a practice, starting your own, or the academic route – research and clinical studies.

Although veterinary school is very selective Alex emphasises that grades aren’t everything.

“I enjoy working more than I did studying; I wasn't a natural student. Being an A-grade student doesn't necessarily make you a better vet. People skills, practical skills, thinking outside the box – those sorts of things are much more important than knowing every disease under the sun.”

Travel Becoming a veterinarian has also offered plenty of travel opportunities. He spent three months in Southern India where he taught vets some basic practical skills and he was also in South Africa for six months on a reserve where he worked on game capture and a special project moving black rhino into Malawi.

Social side After being a vet for nearly five years Alex finds that work satisfaction isn’t what he expected.

He thought the hands-on side of the job, like calvings and caesareans, would be the best part about what he does, but he discovered that it’s actually the social side that is most rewarding.

“The relationships you form with the clients – the farmers – you end up building a good rapport with these people, and it doesn’t always feel like work,” he said.

Alex also says that the responsibility that comes with the job can be very fulfilling.

“Quite often a vet will be in charge of the care for the animal health of the entire farm and when the farm gets good results, say they have a really successful mating, or good scanning rates, you feel as though you have had a hand in achieving that,” he said.

4 Veterinarian Alex Smith (pictured left) teaching surgery skills to vets in India.

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leaving school | 4 August 2013

As the biggest export industry in New Zealand, agriculture provides some awesome career opportunities for you.

Do something that really matters – scientists, farm management, vets, environmental engineers, farm consultants, bankers, journalists, food technologists, marketers, accountants and fertiliser reps – with variety, challenge, financial rewards and opportunities to grow and make your mark!

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COUNTRY GIRL’S AG SCIENCE DEGREE LINCOLN UNIVERSITY STUDIES

by ROBYN YOUSEF For Kate Wilson, who grew up on a high-country farm in North Otago, the Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at Lincoln University in Canterbury has definitely been the right choice. She is now into her fourth year and studying towards a degree with honours.

Kate is flatting near the Lincoln University campus, which is itself situated in the town of Lincoln and approximately 20-minutes’ drive from Christchurch. With over 130 years of history, Lincoln University is one of New Zealand’s oldest tertiary institutions.

“I love my choice of programme, which is a four-year degree of which I am now in the final year. Every year is divided into two semesters and students are required to take four papers each semester (some compulsory and some elective). However, the fourth year is different; it gives you greater flexibility to focus on what you are most interested in,“ says Kate.

Early path It perhaps comes as no surprise that Kate loves her degree programme; she’s had her study path mapped out for a long time.

“Even before I knew the finer aspects of what an Agricultural Science degree involved, I had told people that this was what I was going to do. I knew from a young age that I wanted to study at Lincoln University. I did consider a few other options initially, such as geology, but I always came back to Lincoln’s Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree.”

Wool fascination Kate, who is 22 years old, was educated at Kurow Primary School and St Hilda’s Collegiate in Dunedin, where she was Head Girl. As a child growing up on the farm near Otematata, Kate developed an interest in wool. Unsurprisingly then, her studies have focused on wool, with a particular interest in fine Merino wool.

“This year I’m taking only three papers, with the rest of my studies being taken up with a major research project which involves writing a dissertation. I’m also taking a wool science course, which is also research based and looks at everything to do with wool.”

Scholarship research Last year, Kate was involved with a 10-week summer scholarship working with Dr Alistair Black and Professor Derrick Moot on a high-country forage project. Funded by the New Zealand Merino Company Limited, the research studied high-country pastures to determine which species survive best and how they can be made to thrive in the unique soils and climate of the South Island high country.

“I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, so I decided to carry out an honours project in this area. I am looking at Russell lupins as

4 Kate Wilson’s studies this year at Lincoln

University feature research on Merino wool.

PHOTO CREDIT: Kate Murray-Cawte

a potential forage for Merinos because they grow in acidic, high aluminium soils in the South Island high country where lucerne won’t.

We don't know much about the feeding value of Russell lupins, such as whether Merinos like to eat them or and how they might affect the characteristics of fine Merino wool.”

Future plan Once her studies are complete, Kate plans to do some travelling, exploring the world and picking up casual work where she can. Afterwards, she hopes to return to New Zealand and secure a job in the wool industry.

“I have an interest in fashion, so a job that combines the two would be great.” leaving school | 4 August 2013

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ONLINE SCHOOL CAREERS FAIR

SCHOOLCONNECT ASSISTING SCHOOL LEAVERS

by AMY BONHAM Deciding what they want to do when they leave high school is easy for some – they are the sort of people who by age four have already decided to become a veterinarian.

For others, the prospect of

deciding upon a future career, and figuring out the steps to get there, may be daunting.

Our goal at SchoolConnect is to make the decision easier, providing students with information about all of their options in one place.

SchoolConnect was born from a desire to help New Zealand secondary students at a crucial time in their lives. When we were in their position, we remember receiving advice from family, friends, teachers and careers advisors, and everyone told us something different.

Talk about confusing!

We wish this website was available when we were at school. The beauty of SchoolConnect is that it’s a free resource that is both comprehensive and easy to use. Even better, every New Zealand student with internet has access to this information – think of us as an online school careers fair. We don’t try to steer students into a certain direction, we offer them unbiased information in three key areas: study, work and travel.

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leaving school | 4 August 2013

Study directions

Students can research the subjects offered at New Zealand’s tertiary institutions, industry

opportunities and case studies of people who are studying/have studied the subject.

Students

can also search for scholarships relevant to their chosen area of study.

Work details outlined

training organisations and private training enterprises. Each subject has a dedicated information page explaining what it is, where students can study it, useful secondary school subjects, future career

From entry-level or apprenticeship positions to occupations requiring study, we cover it all. Each occupation has a page detailing what it involves, entry pathways into the role and case studies of people who are currently in the job. Where relevant, students can learn about where the role can take them in terms of career progression. We also highlight employers who are industry leaders and invite them to share with students what a future career in their field will look like.

Chance to travel?

At SchoolConnect we’re passionate about helping New Zealand students take the next step.

So, what are you waiting for?

Check out… www.SchoolConnect.co.nz and kick-start your career!

Perhaps a student isn’t ready to work or undertake tertiary study. The travel area on the website provides information on fun travel opportunities that also look good on a CV. Volunteering with pandas in Shanghai anyone?

For students who are not sure what they want to do, take our free careers quiz or ask a question on our forums. It’s quick and painless and we’ll suggest some career options based on your personality and interests.

SUPERMARKET OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES GROCERY ROLES

by ROBYN YOUSEF Jamie Eden became one of New Zealand’s youngest supermarket owner-operators when he took over Foodstuffs’ New World store in Browns Bay at the age of 32.

Now eight years later, he is running the New World in Albany with a staff of 220.

In August 2007, with his wife Tammy, he opened the Albany supermarket, which is attached to the Albany Westfield Complex. The following year it won the prestigious title of Overall Winner in Auckland’s Top Shop Awards.

He’s now chalked up 26 years’ experience in the industry, starting out working part-time in a supermarket at the age of 14. When Jamie was a student at Wanganui Boys’ College, he worked as a Deli Kitchen Assistant.

From his deli work, Jamie was promoted to work as an assistant in the chilled and frozen foods departments. “I was going to work for a year and then go to university, but I then took up a full-time role and enjoyed the FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) industry and so decided against uni studies.”

Fortunately, Jamie was not put off his career choice when at 20 he began as the Grocery Assistant at Mill Street PAK’nSAVE in Hamilton. ”On my first day the trolley boy was sick so I pushed trolleys all day in the fog – I could only move up the ranks from there.”

Completed development course He worked there in various roles for nine-and-a-half years and during this time also completed the three-year Foodstuffs Auckland Management Development Course.

“I left Hamilton to work as Store Manager at Alderman Drive PAK’nSAVE to hone my skills with an eye to getting accepted onto the Foodstuffs Auckland Ltd Trainee Operator Scheme. After one year I was accepted onto the scheme and began training towards owning my own supermarket.”

His next move was to Birkenhead New World to work as Store Manager.

Opportunity to work towards store ownership He was there for 18 months and it was during this time Jamie was awarded a Foodstuffs Auckland Ltd Trainee Operator scholarship, which granted him the opportunity to apply for store ownership when the right store became available. In the intervening 12 months, he worked on decommissioning one store, reopening a new store and as a Grocery Specialist in the retail support team.

If you would like more information about career opportunities with the Foodstuffs Group email: recruitment@foodstuffs.co.nz or visit the following websites: http://careers.foodstuffs.co.nz www.paknsave.co.nz www.newworld.co.nz www.gilmours.co.nz www.foursquare.co.nz

In August 2005, Jamie and Tammy became the very proud owners of their first Foodstuffs supermarket in Browns Bay, Auckland. And after two years there they were approved to own and operate the new Albany store.

Consistency the biggest challenge He finds his biggest challenge with the job is providing the same consistently high standard of quality products, presentation and customer service from open to close seven days a week.

“With up to 30,000 transactions per week and 220 staff, one day is never the same as the last.”

Jamie’s advice to school leavers wanting a career in the supermarket industry: “My journey to becoming an owner-operator of a Foodstuffs Auckland Ltd supermarket is very similar to many other owner-operators; take all opportunities that are given to you to advance through extra training and taking on extra responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to get stuck in and a do a full hard day’s work, come back the next day and do it all again.”

Jamie Eden, who has 26 years’ experience in the supermarket industry, is the owner-operator of New World in Albany.

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leaving school | 4 August 2013

31

NAVIGATE YOUR STUDY FUNDING STUDYLINK INTRODUCTION

by DAVID McDONALD Getting a student loan can be a stressful task. However, it can be simple if you understand the structure and process.

We have put together a brief introduction to acquiring financial assistance from StudyLink to help fund your study.

StudyLink is a Ministry of Social Development service which delivers information and financial support to students. They administer student loans, assistance with costs and allowances to help students achieve successful education outcomes.

There are two main parts to the StudyLink support system: Student loan: Made up of three parts; tertiary fees, course-related costs and living costs. You must repay these costs!

Student allowance: Weekly payment to students who meet certain criteria. You don’t this pay back!

STUDENT LOAN: To qualify for a student loan, generally YOU MUST: Be enrolled in a Tertiary Education Commission approved course Be enrolled in study for at least 32 weeks with a value of at least 0.25 EFTS (Equivalent Full-Time Student) or more Sign a contract with the Government Nominate a NZ-based contact person (condition of accessing student loan) Be a New Zealand citizen or have lived in New Zealand for at least two years and have been entitled to reside indefinitely in New Zealand for two or more years. This will increase to three years from 1 January 2014.

Be under the age of 55 to receive course-related costs and living costs.

There may be other eligibility or entitlement criteria that can affect the assistance you receive. Check online and sit the eligibility test: https://online.studylink.govt.nz/ODSAnon/ en_GB/MSDSLODSEligibility_homePage.do?

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COURSE FEES: If your loan is approved for fees, StudyLink will pay your compulsory academic fees directly to your education provider.

You generally sign a new student loan contract for each year.

Apply for a student loan here: https://online.studylink.govt.nz/ODSAnon/ logon-landing.html Once complete, your application will be processed. You will be sent a student loan contract either online or in the mail. Sign it and post it back with any documents StudyLink may have requested. Follow the instructions closely and read the terms.

Course-Related Costs: This component of the student loan is designed to cover costs related to study such as transport, textbooks and stationery.

You can borrow up to $1000 per year. You can apply online using your MyStudyLink account once your student loan has been approved.

You don’t need to claim the whole sum at once – you can claim as and when it’s needed.

Living Costs: The final part of the student loan is living costs which you apply for with your loan. Apply for this if you don’t qualify for a student allowance but you require assistance with weekly expenses such as food and rent.

Currently, you can borrow up to $173.56 a week for living costs while you are studying.

To be eligible for living costs you must be studying full-time or limited full-time (need StudyLink approval).

Make sure you apply for your Student Loan at least three weeks before your course starts.

N REMEMBER ONLY BORROW WHAT YOU NEED!

WHAT YOU need for the

HERE’S the

application

process in a nutshell…

application process…

G Bank account details G IRD number STUDENT ALLOWANCE: G Email address A student allowance is a weekly payment to help with your living expenses while you study G Name of your education provider full-time. YOU DO NOT PAY THIS BACK! G Approximate course dates (start and end) Whether you are eligible and how much you certificate or passport qualify for is determined by several factors: G B(toirthshow date of birth) Your income e t

P assport or citizenship papers Your parents’ income if you are aged G(to show residency status) t e under 24 If you live in your family/parental home; re-printed bank deposit slip if you are e t G Papplying for course-related costs or living costs (to show bank account details)

re-printed letter or notice from G PInland Revenue Department (to show your IRD number)

certificate or deed poll papers G M(toarriage show any name change you have had) Apply for all student loans and allowances at least three weeks before your course starts!

For helpful advice and information visit their valuable website: www.studylink.govt.nz FREE PHONE 0800 88 99 00

g

If you have a partner (if you’re 24 or over) t e and what their income is If you have children. e t To check if you qualify and how much you may be entitled to go to the StudyLink online student allowance calculator: http://www.studylink.govt.nz/financingstudy/student-allowance/studentallowance-rate-calculator.html

With a student allowance you can currently earn up to $208.00 (before tax) a week before your payments are affected.

When you have checked your eligibility, apply online: https://online.studylink.govt. nz/ODSAnon/logon-landing.html

APPLY FOR YOUR TERTIARY COURSES.

CHECK YOUR STUDENT LOAN AND ALLOWANCE ELIGIBILITY.

CHECK YOU HAVE ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS.

APPLY ONLINE! STUDYLINK WILL PROCESS YOUR APPLICATION. You can follow its progress on your MyStudyLink account.

YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONTRACT.

Sign and return ASAP to StudyLink along with any documents they request.

STUDYLINK WILL THEN NOTIFY YOU ONCE YOU HAVE MET ALL OF THEIR REQUESTS. STUDYLINK WILL LIAISE WITH YOUR TERTIARY PROVIDER AND CONFIRM YOUR ENROLMENT. YOUR STUDENT LOAN WILL EITHER BE APPROVED OR DENIED. IF SUCCESSFUL YOU WILL BE SENT A LOAN ENTITLEMENT ADVICE LETTER. This will let you know what you qualify for.

YOUR PAYMENTS WILL BE MADE!

leaving school | 4 August 2013

33

PREPARING AN IMPRESSIVE CV

market your skills IN YOUR CV

by ROBYN YOUSEF Your curriculum vitae has to work as your calling card into the working world. It has to be meticulously prepared, tailored to suit the position you are applying for and make the recruiting manager or panel really want to read about your skills, interview and then ultimately select you.

You have to present a CV which will make you stand out from all the other applicants.

Some job advertisements are attracting piles of applications so you must ensure your CV will capture immediate attention.

The average recruiter might spend only 20 to 30 seconds skimming through information so you have to highlight your special attributes for that position at the start of the document – rather than keeping your main attractions to the latter part.

Your CV and accompanying covering letter are the first indicators about your abilities and character to a potential employer. You need to take time to identify the skills related to the position you are pursuing. For example, if you love animals and have done holiday work at catteries, kennels or dog walking, this should all be outlined if you are applying for a job as a veterinary nurse or to study to be a veterinarian.

Skill set an indication of suitability The skills you present on your CV will show the potential employer how well

suited you are to the job

on offer.

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The covering letter, which also needs to feature you and your skills, should be professional, precise and highlight the main points which fit you to the job. Make sure your spelling and grammar is immaculate. Don’t just rely on your computer’s spelling/grammar check, but have a savvy friend or mentor check it through.

Proper English always If you are applying by email keep your use of text messaging language and slang strictly between you and your friends. Never use either in a professional application. It’s also very important to be totally honest, as if you exaggerate your skills or experience it is very easy to trip yourself up in an interview.

Include a short and professional note with your covering letter and CV. Make sure it includes your professional email address including your name or create a new one if it doesn’t. Remember to always include a phone number. And if you are applying through a secure recruitment portal where a note cannot be attached ensure your CV really stands out from others!

Choose the right format The format of your CV can be chronological (that is time-based), functional-skills based or a combination of both. The type of format selected depends on where you are in your working life, as well as your skills. You should choose the format which will best highlight your abilities and suitability for the job advertised. For example, if you have just finished secondary school or a university degree, a functional-skills format works well – highlighting voluntary, community

and/or part-time work

you have completed during studies.

VALID details for a CV... our name, full address, t Yphone number, email address and Linkedln contact if applicable

t Personal Statement t Skills and abilities t Work history t Qualifications t Interests t Referees.

For extra information check out these interactive resources from Careers New Zealand: C V BUILDER www.careers.govt.nz/cv-builder Subject matcher www.careers.govt.nz/subject-matcher Compare study options www.careers.govt.nz/compare

5 5 5

Students can also chat with career advisors through webchat…

Q www.careers.govt.nz/chat

MAKING THE BEST INTERVIEW IMPRESSION PREPARE WELL AND WIN THE JOB

by ROBYN YOUSEF You have to be well prepared for a job interview. It’s not just about being on time and dressing appropriately, but you also need to do some serious groundwork before the meeting to impress your potential employer.

Creating a good impression is very important and there’s much more to that than looking great and answering questions confidently.

The interviewer will be judging you on how you act, how you handle questioning, your presentation and your overall attitude.

Research on the company/organisation and the job itself will help you answer questions correctly and also underline just how keen you are to win the job.

Job-specific interview questions are tailored to measure the candidate’s ability to handle the job against the skill set required for it. To sum it up, the person hiring wants to know if you can

do that job capably. Many want applicants to hit the ground running as soon as they are hired. This is especially important in jobs where technical expertise is needed.

As well as knowing you have the knowledge and skills to handle the job you are being considered for, the employer will want to know if you have the right mindset for the job. This employer will also be keen to establish if you are able to help achieve the company’s goals and also if you can fit in with the general culture.

You must aim to demonstrate how you are the best person for the job. This will be much easier if you have done your homework on the position and your potential employers.

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” American actor and cowboy, Will Rogers, said it many years ago, but it still rings true today – especially for job interviews.

Interview tips: . Plan what you want to achieve from the interview

. Practice answering interview questions . Get to your interview in plenty of time so you familiarise yourself with the surroundings and relax

. Dress professionally and neatly – appropriate for the company you are interviewing with

. Stay cool, calm and collected . Look directly at the interviewer when you meet

. Begin and conclude the interview with a firm handshake – shows confidence

. Have a list of your own questions for the employer ready

. Make sure you don’t interrupt and listen to an entire question before

. Maintain eye contact during interview answering . Bring copies of your CV and a pen . Be positive and paper for note taking . Be courteous to all you meet . Show you know how to do the job by giving specific examples of . Watch your posture – no negative the knowledge you have when responding to questions

. Relay your knowledge about the company . Be confident – showcase your skills and abilities

body language

. Be honest . Show some old-fashioned courtesy

with a personal thank-you note (or email) within 24 hours of the interview reiterating your interest

leaving school | 4 August 2013

35

PREVENTING OUR KIDS FROM FALLING THROUGH THE CRACKS DETERMINING EDUCATION OUTCOMES

by DR PAUL PICKERING

We’ve since recognised the importance of context, culture and variety in determining education outcomes. This recognition has led to dramatic and on-going improvements in the sector with the aim of ensuring our children get the best preparation for adulthood and their career.

Taha whanau Social well-being Taha hinengaro Mental and emotional well-being

Taha tinana Physical well-being Taha wairua Spiritual well-being

Taha whenua (Turangawaewae) A place to stand/land where you belong

Sadly, changes large or small, take a generation in which to be felt.

That much of the attention has been at primary and secondary levels is understandable, given that the propensity to absorb and learn is set at

Planning on studying science?

Kōrero Mai

a very young age. It seems though that transitioning between the two is still resulting in a widening of the gap between achievers and non-achievers, in Years 9 to13.

Furthermore, an unacceptably large portion of this demographic falls through that gap when they reach tertiary age. They’ve not managed to gain the necessary secondary credits to qualify for university entrance or enter into a desired vocational pathway, or worse, have scored just enough to make it into university but fail to complete the degree course.

In June 2013 a recent example of this came from Massey University’s new Pasifika Director, Associate Professor Malakai Koloamatangi, who

Ngā-Toa-Ngaki-Kai Scholarships The Ngā-Toa-Ngaki-Kai scholarships are designed to assist young Māori men and women gain tertiary qualifications relevant to Plant & Food Research’s areas of science and research. There are three scholarships available, each is worth $5,000 and is awarded for full-time study for a period of one academic year.

Applications are now open www.careers.plantandfood.co.nz

JKJ | 07/13 | J003661

In recent decades we’ve begun to understand that not all kids are the same when it comes to education – that they learn at their own pace and cope differently when presented with material comprising varying levels of complexity. Traditionally, this was attributed to some children being “bright” and others being “not so bright”.

aughter with learning – a holistic 4 Lapproach is providing good results.

stated “the university needs to do much better for its Pacific students, who have the lowest graduation rates in the country.” Only a quarter of the 1200 enrolled completed their qualifications.

While Professor Koloamatangi is determined to attain a vast improvement in this statistic, perhaps part of the answer may be found in the style of learning this group (and others) are exposed to prior to engaging with a university programme.

For the past 10 years, New Zealand Career College (NZCC), a category one private training establishment, has specifically engaged its market of struggling secondary high-school

students and second-chance learners, with a highly-effective “cohort” model, whereby students receive holistic care addressing all elements influential to their capacity to learn.

Critical to this approach is keeping the group and one tutor together throughout the duration of the programme, allowing strong trust-based relationships to form.

Pioneered by Sir Mason Durie, this “Whare Tapa Rima” (or the Pasifika equivalent “Fale”) model has resulted in course completion rates at NZCC well in excess of 80 per cent. Offering vocational and university foundational courses in health,

early childhood education, automotive trades and business to nearly 1000 students per year, NZCC scored near the top of all providers in pathwaying its graduates in 2011-2012.

Perhaps in this day and age of delivering separate course components, the most effective means of preventing our youth from falling headlong into the gaps, is to simply bring those individual parts together and present the whole in an holistic nurturing environment.

Dr Paul Pickering is Development Director for New Zealand Career College.

IS YOUR TEENAGER… Confused about career direction?

Thinking about working/studying overseas?

Transitioning from High School to University?

Will they find their way… can they cope… will they succeed?

GET THE ANSWERS AT

www.memyselfi.co.nz CLICK ON

My Journey select the insight complete the questionnaire, get the report.

WHERE THE SKY REALLY IS THE LIMIT

THE ALLURE OF AVIATION

by R. M. W harton With the possibility of travel to exotic places and meeting a huge cross-section of people, the aviation industry is often alluring to young school-leavers. It also offers a wide range of career opportunities to suit many interests, skills and backgrounds.

It’s estimated that aviation supports 56.6 million jobs worldwide – with jobs ranging from airport ground crew, security co-ordinators, air traffic controllers and flight attendants through to commercial pilots.

If you are planning a career as a pilot, there are several training centres throughout New Zealand including CTC Aviation in Hamilton.The basic entry criteria includes completion of NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 12 credits in English, maths and preferably a science subject, particularly physics. However, Jodi Kitchen, marketing co-ordinator with CTC, points out there are different requirements specific to each of the following courses: The Jetstar Cadet Pilot Programme A 19-month course for those with New Zealand or Australian citizenship or permanent residency. Cadets graduate with their Commercial Pilot Licence with a Multi Engine Instrument Rating and a Type Rating in an A320 and join Jetstar as a First Officer.

The NZ Diploma in Aviation 18-to-19-month course culminating with the cadet joining an airline 38

leaving school | 4 August 2013

or completing an instructor course and joining CTC as an instructor after graduation.

The Qatar Wings Pilot Programme An 18-month course open to all nationalities. Graduates complete the programme with a Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) and a job as a Pilot for Qatar Airways in Doha.

Another location for prospective pilots to train is at the International Aviation Academy of New Zealand (IAANZ) based in Christchurch.

Jay Peters has been at the academy for more than 20 years and, for the last 15 years, as the Chief Flying Instructor/Head of Training.

“School leavers contemplating an aviation career should contact a reputable training provider. The International Aviation Academy of New Zealand is one of this country’s largest providers, and the only one in New Zealand operating from a full international airport,” advises Jay. School leavers wishing to train here must have NCEA Level 3 – preferably with at least 14 credits in “English rich” subjects. Jay recommends English, maths and physics as appropriate subject options for those interested in aviation as a career.

At IAANZ, the minimum age for trainee pilots is 18 years old to study for a Commercial Pilot Licence. Most domestic trainee pilots in New Zealand are student-loan funded with their training programme reflecting

the national requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority.

“The aviation world is a very changing and volatile market in terms of employment, but it’s fair to say that few training providers (in other industries) at any level could match the graduate success that most aviation training providers enjoy,” he says.

There are also many opportunities for flight attendants within the industry and Julie Vaughan, the manager of the Wellington-based Sir George Seymour College and head of their flight attendants programme throughout New Zealand, believes flight attendants have the potential to be great role models and/or ambassadors. The Wellington campus attracts about 200 students each year and over 1200 students training at other centres nationwide.

Julie has been in aviation for 21 years, working as a flight attendant for Ansett NZ for 12 of those.

The college has several courses in 2014 including a 30-week course for potential flight attendants, which can then be combined with a further year for a Diploma of Aviation. Students have to be 17 years old to join the course and with an achievement of NCEA Level 2.

“They also have to be motivated, have great personalities and come in to the course every day looking well-groomed,” Julie explains.

“The college prepares their graduates to ensure they are employed in the industry and do have a very high success rate.’’

Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t decide what to do after school?

Be it study, work or travel, take the next step on .co.nz

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INSIGHT INTO THE WORKING WORLD PREPARE FOR YOUR FUTURE

by R. M. W harton When school leavers make their move from school into the working world, their skills can become their passport to success – working both here in New Zealand and internationally.

There are so many different career options now that the world can really be the young person’s oyster, but they should create a foundation for their future vocation while still at school.

Most students will follow the Kiwi tradition of establishing themselves in a career here before expanding their horizons on the traditional OE. New Zealanders are generally well-regarded on

the international job market so young people should aim to take advantage of the many study and training options available here to develop their skills.

New industry training organisation ServiceIQ is the new industry training organisation (ITO) covering a huge range of training programmes and nationally recognised qualifications for a raft of roles and careers across New Zealand’s large and growing service industry. This includes the aviation, travel, tourism, museums, cafés, bars and restaurants, accommodation, food services, quick service restaurants, clubs, retail and wholesale sectors.

Short for service industry qualifications, ServiceIQ represents nearly 20 per cent of the New Zealand workforce.

Industry training, which is learning skills on the job, enables people to achieve the same tertiary qualifications while working – and earning money – as they could in full-time study.

ServiceIQ works with employers and businesses to identify and develop industry-relevant qualifications and training programmes while providing industry leadership in skills training and workforce development. It also works with training providers, such as polytechnics and schools, and promotes the variety of careers on offer through its website, social media, secondary school forums and ‘taster’ work experience programmes such as the popular Gateway programme on offer for school students.

ServiceIQ currently has around 27,000 secondary school students in skills training across all its sectors – 20,000 in hospitality, 5,000 in travel and tourism and 2,000 in retail.

327 schools throughout New Zealand Mark Dronjak is the manager of ServiceIQ’s school programme, and his team engages with 327 secondary schools throughout New Zealand.

He’s been in the service industry for more than

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30 years and is very enthusiastic about the range of training programmes ServiceIQ offers across its 11 service sectors.

He believes that if school leavers are not preparing themselves for their careers while still at school, they are narrowing their fields of opportunity. “For example, a student who wants to work as a chef should have done some part-time work in kitchens and not just followed TV cooking programmes avidly for background knowledge. The key is to be hands-on. They need to get some insight into what the career covers and do some careful planning.”

Understanding and passion needed Employers also need to know that students have some understanding and passion for the job. “Recently an employer requested a handwritten letter on why the applicants wanted that specific job, then those he short-listed had to do a basic calculation – without a cell phone or calculator. He wanted an apprentice who could think on his/her feet.”

Taking up an apprenticeship with an employer is another popular option for gaining skills, experience and national qualifications while earning. ServiceIQ has several apprentice programmes on offer, from chefs to pilots and more.

Mark says that while on-job training works well for many students (“where you can earn as you learn”) some young people may be better suited to full-time study with a training provider such as a polytechnic.

“The important thing is for the student to be passionate about and have some insight into the career they are aiming to follow.” And with a CV that shows evidence of relevant skills learned at school, a student is more attractive to employers who want work-ready staff.

For those who want to travel, gaining a national qualification on the job can often be an international passport for working overseas.

YOUNG HAIRDRESSER STYLING SUCCESS

NEW TRENDS WITH KIWI COIFFURES

by ROBYN YOUSEF At 23, Laura Williams is already wellestablished on the Auckland hairdressing scene with several major awards to her name.

The young hairdresser, who has been working at the very popular Jan Waite Hairdressing Salon in Mt Eden for three years, is revelling in her career choice.

“I love what I’m doing, I enjoy every aspect of my job and the people I work with,” she says.

Early start in hairdressing She completed her secondary schooling at Te Kauwhata College and this was followed by study at Auckland AUT during 2008 and 2009 for a Diploma in sports and recreation. Laura was keen on sports, particularly hockey, but soon realised she missed the creativity of hairdressing. She had always planned on pursuing hairdressing as a career, having had a regular after-school salon job in her home town of Te Kauwhata from the age of 13.

Salon-based training Her Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation (HITO) apprenticeship training has been salonbased with weekly breaks to attend courses for hairdressing theory. A HITO hairdressing apprenticeship lasts four years and during the first three years, she completed 48 days of theory work.

Laura’s accolades to date include : 2010 NZARH* Auckland Apprentice (top cutting) 2011 Auckland HITO Apprentice of the Year 2012 Auckland HITO Apprentice of the Year 2012 NZARH Auckland Apprentice (top cutting) 2012 NZARH Auckland Apprentice (styling award) 2012 NZARH New Zealand Supreme Newcomer of the year Varied role Laura is now a Senior Stylist at Jan Waite Hairdressing. Her duties cover the whole gamut

of salon work from some reception work through to cutting, colouring and creating super glamorous “up” styles, especially for the ball season. She also does styling work for New Zealand Fashion Week, other special events and editorial shoots.

While she is happy with all the aspects of her work, Laura particularly enjoys honing her cutting skills.

Own clientele Knowing her career path was definitely always going to be hairdressing, she particularly appreciated being able to start working in her first year of her HITO apprenticeship. “As my studies were incorporated with my job, I was learning while I was working. And I feel this gave me an advantage as when I finished my studies I already had in-salon experience and had already built my own clientele.”

Very appropriately, the very capable young stylist has been selected to feature in the HITO MAKE IT HAIR campaign (www.makeithair.co.nz) – promoting apprenticeships in hairdressing to young people.

Laura’s advice to school leavers thinking of becoming hairdressers is to talk to their local salon owners to check out if they are currently taking on new apprentices. “It’s a great way to learn, a great career choice and you won’t be left with a big student loan.”

Armed with her National Certificate in Hairdressing (Professional Styling), she plans to take her skills overseas within a few years to try her luck on the international stage.

If you are considering a career in hairdressing check out the following websites: www.makeithair.co.nz or www.hito.org.nz or call 04 499 1180 enquiries@hito.org.nz

* (New Zealand Association of Registered Hairdressers)

leaving school | 4 August 2013

41

AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY OFFERING RANGE OF SKILLS

FROM GAS WELDING TO DIAGNOSTIC MACHINES

by CAMPBELL BURNES Tim Matheson has always been into cars.

Now he’s driving trucks for a living with nationwide company Fliway. Based in Christchurch, Tim moves freight in his Class 4 truck.

Tim (29) has only just entered the automotive industry workforce after several years as a tour guide in Dunedin, showing tourists the habitat and delights of the yellow-eyed penguin.

Here is a man with broad interests but with an underlying passion in automotives from his school days in Dunedin.

SIT course “I was always into working on cars and working

with other bits of machinery, so I guess I always had a bit of a passion for it,” he says.

That passion was reignited last year when he did a one-year Certificate in Automotive Heavy Traders at Invercargill’s Southern Institute of Technology (SIT).

Attracted by the zero-fees policy in place, other than course-related fees, Tim enjoyed his experience, which he says was 50 per cent theory and 50 per cent practical.

He knew many of the basics but found the intensive course interesting and enlightening.

The Certificate in Automotive Heavy Traders was only offered at SIT, at least in the South Island.

All sorts of skills “They teach you a huge range of skills, everything from gas welding to laying out vehicle electronics and diagnostic machines, wheel alignments and assembling engines...

“I found the gas welding quite interesting and I’d quite like to get into that. It’s a bit of an art form. That was quite cool and something I hadn’t had a go at before.”

Tim started an apprenticeship at Prestige Commercial Vehicles in Invercargill and though he has now moved away from that, his current job driving trucks is very much in the same field and putting his heavy traders’ knowledge to good use. Ordinarily, the apprenticeship

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Tim Matheson is now working in the automotive industry workforce and completely happy with this career change.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Martin Hunter

would take two to three years and the course acts as the first year of that.

He says there are plenty of jobs available in the automotive industry.

Options now available “There are a lot of trucking companies down in Southland. They will always put you in a work placement situation to get more experience. That can sometimes lead on to a full-on apprenticeship.

The vast majority of people on my course got an apprenticeship that way.” His aims are still fluid – he is keen to work on his Class 5s (medium-duty trucks) and has the option of going back to being a mechanic – but the course has given him skills and therefore options.

Give it your all Work ethic is his major message to school leavers.

“When you are in your work placement, just give it your all, give it 100 per cent, get along with the employer and do everything you can for them. They might pay it back for you and give you an apprenticeship,” says Tim. Sounds like sound advice.

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MANY BENEFITS TO BUILDING LIFESTYLE

TRADE BOOMING FOR BUILDERS

by CAMPBELL BURNES When we tracked down Jarred Biggs, he was in the thick of a large construction project on Auckland’s Waiheke Island.

There was time for him to pause for a quick 10-minute phone chat, but there has been precious little down-time of late in the booming building industry.

In fact, he has two jobs on-the-go on Waiheke, meaning he’s up before the birds and onto the ferry from the mainland before you or I are even out of bed. Despite his tight schedule, he still finds time to indulge his passion for off-road racing.

Work outdoors The 27-year-old has been getting his hands dirty since he left school and the ‘work hard, play hard’ lifestyle clearly agrees with him.

He’s happy not to be stuck behind a desk, and thrives off working in the fresh air, putting in the hard yards for his clients.

Family trade From his days at Howick College, Jarred harboured a desire to follow in the footsteps of his father, also a builder. He now hires his dad as a contractor on occasion.

44

leaving school | 4 August 2013

“My old man was on the tools so I was always around it. From about the age of 13 or 14, I had pretty much made my mind up what I was going to do.”

While Jarred says that woodwork and maths are probably the only school subjects directly relevant to building, there is no substitute for on-site building experience.

That means starting out at the bottom.

“When I started it wasn’t about paying me as an apprentice. It was about paying me what I was worth. The starting wage was $10 an hour, but I was on a tradesman’s wage before I finished my apprenticeship. You have to earn it.”

Apprenticeships Building apprenticeships usually take between three to four years, and Jarred did his through the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO).

Now the incentives to sign up are better than ever. Grants of up to $2000 are available for eligible new apprentices to put towards tools and training costs, and there was a 25 percent increase in new building apprenticeships in the first quarter of 2013. Jarred is the star of a video

on www.GETREAL.co.nz which explains the considerable benefits of his work. It is an enticing call to arms in a booming industry which needs more men on the tools and more labourers.

Work satisfaction Jarred clearly loves his work and derives real satisfaction from it. “Every aspect has its different pluses and minuses. Framing is always good, wall framing and roof framing, because the house takes shape quite quickly. I also enjoy decking as well. It goes down quite quickly and you have a nice finished product.”

And he enjoys bossing his twin brother Scott around. He has just taken up an apprenticeship after seeing how well Jarred was doing.

Prospective builders should heed this advice: “Do a trade, work hard and you’ll get the reward. If you think you’re not the university type, then get into a trade and go hard.

It’s not that complicated if you work hard.

It’s that simple.”

4 Jarred Biggs (right) has a chat to his contractors on site, Waiheke Island.

to build a long term career, start here. Jarred did Five years ago Jarred was a BCITO apprentice.

Now he owns and runs his own construction company.

Find out more about Jarred and his story, and why an apprenticeship in building and construction with BCITO is the best place to start at GetReal.co.nz.

BCITO.org.nz facebook.com/bcito.org.nz youtube.com/thebcito

The BCITO is the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation, the largest provider of building and construction TC_4311_LSM

apprenticeships in New Zealand. We are appointed by Government to arrange apprenticeships in carpentry, bricklaying, concrete, tiling, plastering, masonry, frame and truss and interior systems. We are building professionals for the future, today.

SPECIALISED TRADE OF ROOFING busy times FOR ROOFERS

by CAMPBELL BURNES Roofing is a specialised trade and the industry is booming at the moment.

That suits 22-year-old Aaron Mathewson just fine.

He has just completed his National Certificate in Roofing and was offered a job with Kiwi Roofing.

Apprenticeship Training Trust (ATT) Aaron completed his apprenticeship through Apprenticeship Training Trust (ATT) which involved two years and more than 4000 hours of practical work. But he is now positioned to be earning good money and moving up the ranks.

Auckland-born, but having spent 10 years living in Brisbane, his school in Australia offered subjects such as building, construction and design technology, which helped him get into roofing.

Boom in roofing When he returned to Auckland in 2011 he started his roofing career in earnest with an apprenticeship. Now, he is as busy as ever.

“It seems to be booming. We don’t have any down time or days off because there’s no work on. Roofing is always busy as.”

And don’t think he is idle when bad weather prevents him getting up on a roof.

“With the really big sites, there’s always some undercover work that we can do on rainy days,” says Aaron.

Roofing rewards He knows the rewards are there if he keeps his head down and puts in the work.

“You can keep moving up. You can become a foreman or go contracting and make as much money as you can work for.”

Roofing rates Paul Connell, Director of Kiwi Roofing explains some of the key benefits of roofing as a career.

“Roofing is a standalone trade now. With any trade qualification there is reward and a good hourly rate,” he says.

4 Happy at work –

Aaron Mathewson is enjoying the roofing trade.

46

leaving school | 4 August 2013

Some roofers’ rates are getting up to the level of plumbing, traditionally one of the highest-paid trades.

Need for more roofers “There’s a good calibre of roofer coming through and we work closely with ATT. The message I have for school leavers is that if you enjoy working with your hands, working outside and in a team environment, then give roofing a go.

“There is a shortage of roofers, not just in Christchurch but also in our main centres, and Auckland, in particular. We are keen to bring in more trainees,” says Paul.

“I explain to new roofers that you can potentially run your own business and a have a sub-contracting gang and be in a good position to ultimately earn more than $100,000.”

Aaron is in a good position to reap the benefits in this specialised trade. He was nominated for the ATT apprentice of the year, though the man himself was too modest to mention this fact to us.

There is more to roofing than just having a head for heights and being good with the tools. The intensive apprenticeship will teach you all you need to know so that when you start your career you are well-equipped to succeed, just like Aaron Mathewson.

ATT For more information

www.att.org.nz 0800 18 78 78

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