James’ love of skiing and the mountains made his home town of Christchurch an obvious choice for his tertiary education. ‘Everything is so close, which makes it easy to meet up with mates and do things,’ he says.

James has, however, managed to travel with his studies. He was one of the UC students that went to Adelaide for the first semester of 2011 on an exchange scheme that was set up following the earthquakes.

‘The Adelaide University experience was amazing,’ he recalls. ‘Just under two hundred students went. I got to meet so many people, be part of another University in another country and experience being out of my comfort zone.’

James chose the Marketing option for his Commerce degree because of the people skills required and his career goal is to join one of the big four marketing firms.

‘A large part of marketing involves communicating and developing ideas which is something I really enjoy. Law, on the other hand, is a great degree to have in terms of gaining excellent English and writing skills. I enjoy the differences between the two degrees and the challenges I face from both.’

‘I also really enjoy the lecturers here. They are always willing to help and most of them have plenty of experience in their profession, and they convey their teachings so strongly.’

He says that there are many other great opportunities at UC. ‘Whether you want to be involved with a sport or social club, or helping with the functioning of the University or the academic side – the opportunities are just there waiting for you.’

To other students, James says: ‘I’d advise anyone following the same degrees I am to get involved with everything you can that might help you understand the content of your courses quickly.’