Michael McRae

‘Whether you’re a proven academic, a social butterfly, or just someone looking to get a degree behind them for the future, I recommend university,’ says Michael. ‘The atmosphere around UC makes it its own little city. You’ll have a great time no matter what your interests are.’

Michael is studying towards a double degree in Commerce and Law, a natural stepping stone between his favourite subjects at high school and his future plans.

‘I plan to finish my degrees and then travel around the world,’ he says. ‘I can see myself in the future working in Asia or Europe, and I would love to work in business or law in Singapore. Law is something I am intrigued by as I have always been keen on debating and hearing about cases on the news, and Commerce subjects always interested me at high school. I chose UC as it is well known for both of these areas and was also close to home, so I could still see my family.’

Now well into his first year, Michael has adjusted to life as a full-time student at UC and is enjoying the experience.

‘Coming from high school where everyone is 13–18 years old, to university where it’s all adults is a strange feeling, but you get used to the fact that they are here for the same reason as you,’ he says. ‘The lecturers are brilliant, and because most of them write their own textbooks it is easy to understand the lectures and reading. There are always so many events going on too, that it is impossible not to be involved with something!’

Hailing from Sefton in North Canterbury, Michael decided to try living in a hall of residence in his first year.

‘I was originally going to live at home and drive in each day, but the halls sounded like too much fun to miss out on. I also wanted to meet new people and be tested in a new environment.'

Michael advises other young students that it can be a great idea to live in a hall of residence, especially in the first year.

‘Living here has given me the opportunity to meet lots of new people, including staff and students. It has also meant I am around people who are keen to study and be involved elsewhere, which makes me push myself academically and in my sport.

‘You should pick a hall that will suit your lifestyle – check them all out before you choose.’